Different Types of Restaurant Tables

When purchasing restaurant dining tables for a dining room, banquet hall, or event space, operators should consider whether customizing their own table by purchasing table pieces separately or buying a pre-paired table best suits their needs, as well as the height of the table.

There are three height options for restaurant tables: dining, counter, and bar height. The height refers to the distance from the floor to the table top. Dining height is between 28 to 30 inches tall while counter height ranges from 34 to 26 inches and bar height is 40 to 42 inches tall.

Customizing a table by buying a base and a table top separately lets you create a unique space for customers. You may also just want to replace a broken table top or base, instead of buying a brand new table. Rather than trying to match separate pieces, pre-paired tables are an already matched set.

Upscale restaurants, bars, and cafes looking to maximize space should consider adding bistro or cocktail tables to their dining areas.

Bistro tables are typically used in smaller spaces as one- or two-person tables and are appropriate for smaller plates and drinks. Cocktail tables are popular in bars and pubs as well as event spaces and wedding venues. Cocktail tables may also have an adjustable column that lets the operators change the height of the table, though most sit at bar height.

Metal table tops are rust resistant and are typically seen on outdoor patios. They often feature a mesh grid to drain liquids from condensation, spills, or precipitation.

Granite is resistant to heat, scratching, and chipping and is considered one of the most durable surfaces available and are often found in upscale establishments.

Quartz table tops are incredibly durable and easy to maintain, though they are less resistant to heat so it is important to limit hot pans and plates on these table tops.

Melamine table tops are manufactured by adding thin layers to the top of particle board or plywood. Melamine is a form of resin, but it is typically a thinner layer of protection.

Resin table tops are made to look like a realistic replica of other tabletop materials. These are typically considered higher quality than melamine or laminate table tops.

Laminate table tops are made by bonding layers of plastic to kraft paper or particle board. They are resistant to staining, but are prone to scratches and high heat.

Round table tops encourage customers to have conversations with each other, though they are not the most space-efficient option and can't be combined without creating an awkward space for your guests.

Square table tops can be combined with ease to accommodate larger groups. Square table tops prevent customers from feeling crowded and are typically used to seat four customers.

This table top shape is the most popular for seating large parties. Rectangular table tops can be combined to provide more seats for larger parties than can be added with square tables.

Cross-style table bases best stabilize square and rectangular table tops.

Disk-style bases are typically paired with round table tops.

T-style bases are ideal for rectangular tabletop shapes.

Square-style bases are wide and can be used with square, rectangular, and round table tops.

Bolt-down table bases secure the column to the floor and can be used with any table top.

Wall-style table bases mount to the wall and are meant for rectangular table tops.