Table top question

 I'm in a pickle with determining what kind of table top I want for my new table.

 I originally wanted granite,  but after shopping around the granite was going to cost me $1300.  That included the hole cut out for the egg as well as the edges being finished.  The table will be 8' X 3'..
 This is obviously going to be out of the question.

 I did find a place that has "scrap" granite and they have several of the same pieces that are 8' long by 18" wide.  So basically I have to put two of these pieces together hoping that they match, then I have to be concerned about a seam running lengthways from end to end then I have to cut out a hole.  Seems like too much work and the eyesore of have an a seam in the middle of the table for $300 for these two pieces.

 With that being said my next option is to go ahead and tile the table top. Im guessing Durock as a backer and then some nice 4x4 or 6x6 tile.
 With you guys that have tile as a tabletop do you regret going this route?  Is it harder to keep clean especially with the grout lines?

 What type of tile did you use (porcelain, ceramic etc)