Anyone know how to refinish furniture?

I have this kitchen cart/island on wheels that I want to redo. I have watched several videos on YouTube, but I'm still lost and some of the videos are contradicting another. I figured with so many people, I may be able to get some tips here.

This is what it looks like currently. Ignore the mess, I use this as one of my crafting desks.

This is what I want to do. Stain the top to make it darker, paint the cabinets a slate blue, and replace the drawer pulls.

Any tips? I am completely clueless and don't want to mess it up. I want it to look good and last.