What are some nice countertop options besides Granite?

Quartz counter tops are cheaper than granite and are actually less prone to hold bacteria. Many of the same suppliers for granite should offer quartz as well.

Concrete counter tops look very modern but everyone I know who has them loves them.

There are several solid surface (man made) options that are cheaper than granite, but if you want a natural material, those are out.

Wood counter tops are an option (teak would be the best place to start), but they can easily run the same cost if not more than granite. If you choose wood, find an accomplished furniture shop to make them, not the carpenter next door. Wood is going to move and someone not experienced with compensating for that movement will make some big mistakes that won't show up until after the check has cleared.

yes,

There are many countertops or alternative options of Granite as Marble, Silestone, Caesarstone, Cabinets, Vanity. You can also use these stone products for home decoration. But Granites are more harder, durable, cheaper and long life than these stones.

i've done tile countertops with travertine which is a type of marble. they have lots of choices of colors and shades. cheapest i found was on ebay, even after having it shipped in. then you'll want to seal it. i used pour-on self leveling bar finish,(looks awesome) also available on-line. ends up being about $10-12 sq ft

Sile stone is a good alternative, it looks like granite, but you can get more color options and it is less expensive.

Dont use marble,it stains too easily.