Quartz is about twice the cost of granite and is less durable than granite. I have granite in my home and it is very dark and I have zero problems with wet spots, glasses and never any staining. So long as you have it sealed about once every two years it is a better product.

You could always disguise the braces by installing a barmaids station in the center of your long run. They take up not much more than one stool space. This would give support and blend them into the build itself.