One common scenario of creating menu list by using color in background as little bit dark or different light color as of used in overall background.

I have also observed the border on up and down side of the menu bar to make it difference from design and change the color on mouse hover.

We can also use some repeating image pattern in back ground of each menu bar.

Using small icons and image buttons in navigation is also another trendy way to have stylist menu just like social media icons.