Choose oak if you want a warm, informal look, and like to see lots of wood grain. Oak is also a good selection if you are concerned about nicks and scratches. The grainy texture of oak hides many imperfections, especially in a light color. Choose maple in one of the darker colors if you want a more formal, elegant look, with a smooth, glass like finish. Maple is versatile enough to offer informality as well.
Maple shows a variety of interesting grain patterns, but the the grain is tight and smooth.
The smooth finish will reveal scratches easily, however, especially in dark colors. Choose mahogany if you want deep rich colors and a satin like texture. Mahogany has a grainy texture, less pronounced than oak, and not as smooth as maple, which give it a soft, satin like appearance. Rosewood or zebrawood rails are not only a very practical option because of their durability and resistance to nicks and scratches, but also provide an interesting and beautiful contrast to the rest of the table. Rosewood tends to coordinate best with maple or mahogany, zebrawood with oak.