need some help - second project - home bar

Hey guys,

It's been a long time since I posted last and am working on my second project (see pics). I am making a bar for my house and am at the point where I will need to choose a stain or varnish(not sure which is better for this). I am trying to make it look nice along with what I have for flooring and the pool table(see pics). I went to Home Depot and found what I thought might work but need some advice. Any thoughts on what would work best? I am also thinking of doing color and then clear poly on the bar top but not sure if that is the best way to do it. The top will be Alder wood and the railing and siding is red oak. Any advice would be appreciated. As you can see I am very green at woodworking.

Thank you