It may have been a multiwire branch circuit (and in most cases that does not require a tie between the two "handles" of the breaker). If you're upgrading the kitchen, you probably want to comply with the new codes which require two 20A small appliance circuits (at least) which have no other outlets (any consumer of electricity is an outlet, the things you are referring to are RECEPTACLES) and nothing else. The countertop receptacles must be protected by GFCI.

thanks for your advice. do you think it would be that big of an issue having each appliance on the same circuit as a couple of receptacles, and maybe a light switch? if so, i'll have to figure out something else.

You can not have lights on the small appliance circuits.

got it, thanks