Table Finish Question

Hello all,

I recently finished building a table for my BGE. It is made of cedar and will have a granite counter-top. I'm now at the stage to finish the wood and am looking for advice. I have searched through this forum a lot of times and found many different discussions about the finish, but there are a lot of opinions. Some discussions are many years old, as well, so I was hoping for some updated responses. Below is what I am looking for:

General description: The stand will be covered when not in use (to limit the sun exposure). I would like a more satin / matte finish as I wouldn't prefer a glossy finish. It will have a black pearl granite piece as it's counter-top. 

I would like to the wood be stained darker, than it's natural look. I don't want to leave the wood unfinished as I'm not a huge fan of that look. That being said, what stain should I use to stain it (type, not color)?

This leads to the question of finish. What kind of finish should I use over the stain? I've read that helmsman spar urethane is sometimes used. I've also read people warning against it. 

I've also seen Sikkens wood stain suggested. Would that be the way to go? 

I'm just a bit confused on which direction to go, and once I start going down a path, there is not an easy way back. Hence why I am asking for advice before I start.

Thanks in advance.