The Complete Outdoor Dining Table Buying Guide
Jun 17th 2024
![Loyola Outdoor Table Loyola Outdoor Table](/product_images/uploaded_images/loyola-outdoor-table.png)
Choosing the perfect outdoor dining table can transform your commercial space into an inviting oasis. Whether catering to lunch crowds, hosting special events, or providing a relaxing spot for evening cocktails, having the right table is essential for your customers’ comfort and your establishment’s style.
Our outdoor dining table buying guide will help you navigate the various options, materials, and designs to find a table that fits your needs. From understanding the benefits of different materials like teak, aluminum, and resin to considering the size and shape that best suits your space, we cover everything you need to know to help you select the best option for your outdoor dining area.
Different Types of Outdoor Dining Tables
Different types of table shapes offer various benefits, depending on your preferred seating arrangements and the customer experience you are trying to promote. Understanding these options will help you design a space that maximizes comfort, social interaction, and efficient outdoor area use.
Rectangular Tables
Rectangular tables are a classic choice for commercial outdoor dining. They provide ample seating, making them ideal for accommodating large groups and busy dining periods. The long, linear design fits well in spacious patios and outdoor dining areas, offering a generous surface area for serving food and drinks.
One of the main benefits is their versatility; they can be paired with various types of seating, including benches and individual chairs, to accommodate more guests, enhancing your establishment’s capacity and flexibility.
Square Tables
Square tables offer a more intimate dining experience, often comfortably seating four to six people. They are perfect for smaller patios or cozy garden corners in commercial spaces, promoting a sense of closeness and conversation among diners.
The symmetrical shape makes them an excellent fit for multipurpose areas. They can easily be pushed together to create a larger dining surface when hosting bigger events, providing flexibility and adaptability for your establishment.
Round Tables
Round tables are an excellent choice for encouraging social interaction in a commercial setting, as everyone can see and converse with each other easily. They are a fantastic option for smaller groups, typically seating four to six people.
Round tables work beautifully in compact dining areas, as their lack of corners allows for more fluid movement around the table. Additionally, they often feature a central pedestal base, providing more legroom for diners.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Outdoor Dining Table
Selecting the perfect size for your commercial outdoor dining table is crucial for creating a comfortable and functional dining area. A table that is too large can overwhelm a small patio, making it feel cramped, while a table that is too small may look out of place in a large open area. Achieving balance is key to maintaining a harmonious and efficient dining space.
Use these tips to determine the ideal table size:
Measure Your Space
Accurately measuring your commercial outdoor dining space is essential for selecting the right furniture and maximizing seating capacity. Use a tape measure to determine the length and width of your outdoor dining area, and write down these dimensions carefully. Ensure you account for any permanent fixtures, such as planters, outdoor bars, or architectural features that might affect the layout.
Allow for Clearance
It’s important to leave sufficient clearance around the table for chairs and movement. According to ADA accessibility guidelines, the rule is to allow at least 36 inches (3 feet) of space from the table’s edge to any walls or other obstacles. This will provide enough room for chairs to be pulled out and for customers to move around comfortably.
Calculate Seating Capacity
For rectangular and square tables, estimate about 24 inches (2 feet) of table length per person. For example, a 6-foot-long rectangular table can comfortably seat six people (two on each long side and one at either end).
Use the table diameter to determine the capacity for round tables. A 48-inch (4-foot) diameter round table seats four to six people, while a 60-inch (5-foot) diameter round table can seat up to eight.
Evaluate the Overall Layout
Consider how the table will integrate within the larger layout of your commercial outdoor dining area. Ensure that the placement allows for easy access and doesn’t obstruct pathways, entry points, or essential traffic flow areas such as doors or stairs.
It’s important to provide ample space for servers and guests to move around comfortably, and proper placement will also ensure that emergency exits and other critical access points remain unobstructed.
Test the Space
Before purchasing, mark the table’s dimensions on the ground using painter’s tape or placing a bed sheet or cardboard cutout of the table size in the area. This visual aid can help you better understand how the table will fit and how much space will remain around it.
Guide to Outdoor Dining Table Materials
The material of your outdoor dining table can impact its aesthetics and durability. Numerous materials are available, from wood to aluminum.
![LaSalle Outdoor Aluminum Table LaSalle Outdoor Aluminum Table](/product_images/uploaded_images/lasalle-outdoor-aluminum-table.png)
Wood and Engineered Wood Outdoor Dining Tables
Wood and engineered wood outdoor dining tables offer a timeless appeal and natural beauty, with teak being a standout choice. Known for its exceptional durability and resistance to weather and insects, teak maintains its strength and appearance over time, even in harsh conditions. Other common woods used include cedar, eucalyptus, and acacia, each offering unique grains and colors and properties like insect and water resistance.
Wooden tables blend seamlessly with natural surroundings, adding warmth and elegance to your space. While they do require regular maintenance, such as sealing and occasional refinishing, to preserve their look, their longevity and classic charm make them a worthwhile investment for any commercial outdoor dining area.
The LaSalle Outdoor Aluminum Table, featuring imitation teak slats, combines durability and simplicity. Measuring 36" x 72" with a 2" umbrella hole, its gray-finished top mimics the elegance of wood grain without the maintenance, making it perfect for home and commercial outdoor dining spaces.
![Magnolia Outdoor Table Magnolia Outdoor Table](/product_images/uploaded_images/magnolia-outdoor-table.png)
Metal Outdoor Dining Tables
Metal outdoor dining tables are popular for their durability and modern aesthetic. Aluminum and steel are the most common metals used. Aluminum is lightweight, rust-resistant, and easy to move, making it perfect for areas prone to moisture, like uncovered restaurant dining spaces. Steel tables, especially those with a powder-coated finish, offer high-strength construction and a sleek, industrial look.
When treated with coatings or galvanization, metal tables can withstand various weather conditions, from rain to snow, and require minimal maintenance. They also come in various styles and finishes to match any restaurant theme. However, they can become hot in direct sunlight and might be prone to dents or scratches over time.
The Magnolia Outdoor Table is perfect for dining areas that need sun protection, thanks to its convenient 2" umbrella hole. This black metal table is versatile and stylish, making it a great addition to your home, restaurant, or bar seating area. Available in various sizes, including 30" and 36" round, 30"x 30" and 36"x 36" square, and 30"x 48" rectangular, the Magnolia table offers a size to fit any space.
![Indoor/Outdoor Resin Table Tops Indoor/Outdoor Resin Table Tops](/product_images/uploaded_images/indoor-outdoor-resin-table-tops.png)
Natural Stone Outdoor Dining Tables
Natural stone outdoor dining tables exude elegance and durability, and granite is a trendy choice. Granite is known for its strength and resistance to scratches and weather elements, making it ideal for outdoor use. Stone tables bring a luxurious, timeless appeal to any outdoor setting. They are also easy to clean and maintain, requiring occasional sealing to protect the surface.
However, natural stone tables can be heavy and more expensive than other materials, and depending on the stone type, they may need extra care to prevent staining from food and drinks.
Our outdoor granite tabletop in grey is perfect for your establishment’s patio or garden seating area. Available in various shapes and sizes, including 24"x 24" square, 24"x 30" rectangle, 30"x 30" square, 24" round, and 30" round, this 1.5" thick tabletop combines elegance and durability. Pair it with the Harrison Table Base, made from sturdy aluminum, to create a stylish, long-lasting dining space.
![Outdoor resin table top Outdoor resin table top](/product_images/uploaded_images/indoor.png)
Plastic and Resin Outdoor Dining Tables
For an affordable, versatile option, plastic and resin outdoor dining tables are popular for commercial settings. These tables are lightweight, making them easy to move and rearrange to accommodate different group sizes, and they are available in a wide range of styles and colors to match any outdoor décor.
The materials are highly resistant to weather elements, including rain and UV rays, ensuring longevity without fading or cracking. Additionally, plastic and resin tables require minimal maintenance and can be quickly wiped down with soap and water between guests.
If you want a stylish, inexpensive resin outdoor table, try our outdoor resin table top. Available in a variety of round and square shapes, these table tops provide a modern, clean look. Pair them with the Monroe Table Base, crafted from durable aluminum, to create a beautiful, functional dining area that impresses customers.
Styling Your Outdoor Dining Table
Styling your outdoor dining table can transform the ambiance of your commercial dining area. By thoughtfully selecting chairs and décor, you can create a welcoming and visually appealing outdoor space for your guests.
Chair Styles
The chairs you choose can set the tone for your commercial outdoor dining area. For a classic look, consider teak or faux wrought iron chairs. If you prefer a modern aesthetic, opt for sleek powder-coated aluminum chairs. Woven wicker chairs are an excellent choice for a cozy, casual vibe. Mixing and matching different styles can also create an eclectic, personalized look that appeals to a diverse clientele.
Tablecloths
Tablecloths are an easy way to add color and texture to your outdoor dining tables. Choose weather-resistant fabrics like acrylic-coated polyester or Sunbrella in vibrant patterns or classic neutrals to match your overall theme. For a casual look, consider using placemats or runners instead of full tablecloths, which can be easily changed to suit different occasions or seasons.
Potted Plants
Incorporating greenery into your table setting adds a fresh and vibrant touch to your commercial outdoor dining area. Small potted plants, such as succulents or herbs, make great centerpieces and are easy to maintain. For a more dramatic effect, use larger plants or flowers in decorative pots at the corners of the dining space. Seasonal blooms can also add a splash of color and charm, enhancing the dining experience for your guests.
Select the Perfect Outdoor Dining Table with Seats and Stools
Incorporating the right outdoor dining tables and stylish elements can make your commercial space stand out. At Seats and Stools, we offer a wide range of outdoor tables suitable for any aesthetic and functional need.
Explore our outdoor dining table buying guide and selection today to find the perfect pieces to create a welcoming and impressive outdoor dining area for your patrons. Browse our collection online and discover the ideal outdoor tables for your business. To discuss wholesale or custom orders, please contact us using our convenient online form.