The most popular lighting for kitchens is the use of a combination of different lights including flush mounted for the ceiling and pendants for the dining area. Recessed lighting may also be used inside glass kitchen cabinets and below wooden cabinets.

On the ceiling:

Mostly flush mounted lights are used on the kitchen ceilings. A combination of multiple lights can be seen in modern kitchens, and white lights  are commonly used. Flush mounted lights can range from semi spherical to cylindrical lights and can be seen on most builder homes.

Over the countertops:

Pendant lighting or track lighting is one of the commonly used lighting over countertops where there are no cabinets. Pendant lighting hangs from the ceiling and is at a lower level than the ceiling and can look aesthetically elegant. It is used to light up a focused smaller area compared to a larger space. 

Over the dining area:

Most popular lighting over the dining space could be either small chandeliers or pendant lighting. The advantage of pendant lights is that it is at a lower height and focuses the light directly on the dining table. This type of lighting is also used over bars and countertops.

Under the Cabinets 

Recessed lighting can be used under the cabinets and is one of the popular lighting in this area. You could choose a soft white or yellow for the under cabinet recessed light options.

Although not the most popular, you could try recessed lighting in your kitchen ceiling. Another option would be installing track lighting over the kitchen island. But ideally a kitchen should have a combination of various types of lights commonly seen such as the flush mount, pendant and recessed lighting. You can see more lucrative light designs in custom homes though. Lighting plays a key role in custom and high end kitchens and makes them look spacious and attractive, while being functional at the same time.