Well, I'm kind of torn on the issue, but I can't really see how having the NEC define minimum circuit requirements for these wet/dry bar countertop areas delves into design issues anymore so than requiring at least one telecommunications line to be installed in a building or the need to provide a means of bonding with an intersystem bonding terminal strip at the exterior of a building for use by telephone, CATV and satellite installers does.
Granted that these wet/dry bar areas are not full-blown kitchens, but some are pretty elaborate. This basically leaves the integrity of the installation entirely up to the installer, which judging from the expanded use of AFCI's, GFCI's, TR receptacles, handle ties for MWBC's, disconnects for double-ended fluorescent fixtures in commercial buildings as well as two the previously mentioned items, the NEC has obviously indicated that they do not like to rely on.
BTW: A funny thing regarding the exterior terminal blocks for CATV and Telco, etc... I've only had to install them twice so far and both times the installers never even used them, so what a waste of time and money. Although, I suppose it could be said that the NEC only requires them to be there, not that they be used.
