Kitchen audio
Sony makes several models of CD players that mount under the counter for use in the kitchen. For something "cool" get one that has a little LCD TV built in. However, I wouldn't expext much in terms of sound quality from these types of units. There are also lots of ipod/radio/CD units on the market.
In my house, I have a distributed auto setup that is powered by 2 channels of my HT amp. There are in-ceiling speakers and volume controls in each room. I have an RF remote which could be used to control the source from the kitchen or any other room of the house.