Take It For Granite?

Granite, marble, glass, butcher-block, metal, tile, concrete, laminate...

Wow!  Have you ever researched countertops?  Every option has a pro's list that equally offsets its con's.  What a tough (and pricey) decision!

I'm asked frequently by homeowners if they should update their countertops to granite.  Whereas granite is a "hot" item these days, I also hear a lot of negatives about it. 

So, what's your preference? 

Know of any other neat countertop ideas?  If so, please share!