Commented: suggestions needed for small awkward eating areaI know you don't want to remove the pony wall, but you cut it down and basically build the banquette over and around it? That would save you having to move electrical and avoid the flooring problem
Commented: Light rail and backsplashThickness of the thinset will be determined by the depth of the notches in your trowel, which depends on the size of the tile. I believe mine was 1/8" for 1" hex tile.
What color are your c...