How to Choose the Best Restaurant Table Design Based on Your Space Plan?

What Types of Tables Are Used in Restaurants?

Most restaurant owners make the mistake of associating restaurant furniture with its concept and space plan. Restaurant tables are much more than just furniture. They're the central element of any dining room. As a restaurant owner, if you aim to offer guests an unforgettable dining experience, choosing the perfect tables in your restaurant is not just simple and requires a creative approach. If you're unsure about which table design to choose for your restaurant, try thinking from the perspective and expectations of your guests.

What Tips Should You Consider When Choosing Restaurant Tables?

With so many design options, materials and shapes, choosing tables that align with your restaurant's space plan can seem overwhelming. Here are several tips to help you make an informed decision when selecting the ideal table design for your restaurant:

• Check local authority guidelines on table spacing. How wide should walkways be? What square footage is needed per customer? These factors determine the number of tables and your restaurant's capacity.
• The table design in a restaurant should harmonize with other elements of your dining room's design to create the desired atmosphere.
• Use different table sizes to accommodate groups of varying guest numbers.
• Mix various table styles to create a stunning appearance that differentiates your restaurant from competitors.

Top 5 Restaurant Table Designs

Here are several classic and elegant table design templates in restaurants that provide a unique experience for your guests:

1. Bar Height

Bar tables have evolved significantly! Gone are the days when bars were only used for temporary seating while guests waited for tables to become available. With growing interest in interactive and casual dining experiences, bar tables have become a popular choice among many restaurant visitors. Compared to regular tables, bar stools offer quicker service times, similar comfort & menu options. It's no surprise that guests prefer this engaging and personalized dining experience, especially solo diners.

2. Classic Buffet

Ask any guest which they prefer: buffet or table! Most likely, their answer will be in favor of the buffet. Elegant, cozy, comfortable and exclusive buffets continue to be the most popular seating type in restaurants. They provide private space for your guests to enjoy an unforgettable dinner with loved ones. Moreover, there is less chance of disturbance from other guests or staff members. It's no wonder they're loved by your guests.

For restaurant owners, buffets are also ideal since they don't require much space for walkways or divisions. While they involve significant upfront costs, they are efficient in terms of space and save money over time. For instance, a standard four-seat table set takes up about 35 square feet (5000 sq inches), whereas an equivalent buffet requires only 20 square feet (3000 sq inches).

3. High Tables and Stools

High tables and stools offer maximum flexibility in your dining room and fit any restaurant layout. Want to seat a group of eight guests at a six-seat table? Just add two stools! This flexibility also promotes conversation and makes gatherings more social.

A high table and stool set is perfect for parties or events where guests can join in or leave without disturbance. An example would be a post-work relaxation spot, where colleagues can come and go after finishing work. Similarly, high tables and stools suit bars, pubs and other casual restaurants. However, despite their stylish appearance, stools can become uncomfortable for extended stays.

4. Picnic Style Banquet Tables

Another informal option that has recently gained popularity is picnic-style banquet tables with long surfaces. These versatile tables are excellent for casual conversations, such as in vineyards, breweries or food courts. You can use these long tables to host large groups. Additionally, you can create a shared space concept inviting guests to interact and dine together. Overall, long picnic banquet tables are innovative in brand image creation and help you stand out from the competition.

5. Sofa Style & Coffee Tables

Nothing conveys luxury and comfort quite like soft sofas. From outdoor chairs to luxurious sofas beside a fireplace, sofa-style coffee tables suit any setting. They provide a relaxed atmosphere and comfortable seating for guests to enjoy a pleasant dinner. Whether it's a quick snack, romantic dinner, drinks with friends or evening coffee, sofas enhance the ambiance in any situation. While sofa and coffee tables are perfect for snacks and beverages, they rarely suit full meals as they use low tables.

Conclusion

If you want to offer your guests an unforgettable dining experience, mastering every aspect of your restaurant business is essential. As you can guess, finding the perfect table design in a restaurant isn't easy because there's no guaranteed formula.

This article examines the impact of table design on your business, design factors and some practical examples. We hope these tips help you choose the ideal table design in your restaurant that not only creates a harmonious atmosphere but elevates it to a whole new level.