The first reaction I have is that from where the counter raises above the kitchen counter is where the kitchen stops. That means that the rest of the countertop shall have receptacles as follows:
(C) Countertops. In kitchens, pantries, breakfast rooms, dining rooms, and similar areas of dwelling units, receptacle outlets for countertop spaces shall be installed in accordance with 210.52(C)(1) through (C)(5).
(1) Wall Countertop Spaces. A receptacle outlet shall be installed at each wall countertop space that is 300 mm (12 in.) or wider. Receptacle outlets shall be installed so that no point along the wall line is more than 600 mm (24 in.) measured horizontally from a receptacle outlet in that space.
Now there is also an argument that the space does not fall into the category of kitchens, pantries, breakfast rooms, dining rooms, and similar areas. Call it a family room.....apparently, if food is not involved the space does not have the countertop described in (C)(1).
What's the deal if it is a wall space in a family room or living room etc.:
(A) General Provisions. In every kitchen, family room, dining room, living room, parlor, library, den, sunroom, bedroom, recreation room, or similar room or area of dwelling units, receptacle outlets shall be installed in accordance with the general provisions specified in 210.52(A)(1) through (A)(4).
(1) Spacing. Receptacles shall be installed such that no point measured horizontally along the floor line of any wall space is more than 1.8 m (6 ft) from a receptacle outlet.
(2) Wall Space. As used in this section, a wall space shall include the following:
(1) Any space 600 mm (2 ft) or more in width (including space measured around corners) and unbroken along the floor line by doorways and similar openings, fireplaces, and fixed cabinets
(2) The space occupied by fixed panels in exterior walls, excluding sliding panels
(3) The space afforded by fixed room dividers, such as freestanding bar-type counters or railings
As you can see the fireplace and fixed cabinets, those are cabinets correct?.......that leaves a loophole that exempts the space as a wall space that would require receptacles. So you are off the hook....
Put the receptacles in because it is the right thing to do. Keep in mind that the code is the bare minimum allowed. Your customer should decide.....and now, not a week after you're done and she can't plug in a big screen. and the cable box, and the sound system and don't ya suppose there's gonna be a lamp or two. Shirley you see what I mean.
I haven't seen a fireplace that far under a mantle. Is this a decorative appliance or an actual fireplace?