What material, color, and other features would be most conducive to keeping a countertop that is both beautiful and sanitary?

Off white quartz. Mild cleanser.

I have a black granite benchtop. We just give it a wipe over with a kitchen cleaner or a damp cloth, nothing abrasive. It’s been there for about 10 years and looks as good as new.

The most common natural stones used to make countertops include granite, soapstone and slate.

Solid-surfacing materials—such as Corian, Wilsonart’s Gibraltar and Avonite—are made of 100% acrylic, 100% polyester, or a combination of acrylic and poly. They’re highly resistant to stains and scratchs, and completely renewable and repairable. Scratches and burns can be sanded out; deep gouges can be filled. Seams are fused together to create undetectable joints. And the material comes in literally hundreds of colors and patterns, many of which resemble natural stone. Solid-surface sinks are also available.

Epoxy, or something equally nonporous, like hard acrylic.

I’m fond of pouring boiling water on the counters after I make a cup of tea or something. Otherwise, I clean with diluted bleach, or vinegar which can destroy some stone countertops.

Stainless steel for cleanliness and beauty. But it isn’t that fashionable.

By guess is that some granite or other stone derivative.

I was thinking laboratory type black countertops could be a clue.