How to Choose the Right Tables and Chairs for Your Café or Bar

When it comes to creating a successful café or bar, the quality of your coffee, cocktails, or food will always matter—but so does your furniture. Tables and chairs play a huge role in defining your venue’s style, customer comfort, and even how efficiently your team can serve guests.

Choosing the right café or bar furniture isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making smart, durable, and functional choices that align with your brand and business goals.

Here’s everything you need to consider when selecting the perfect tables and chairs for your hospitality space.

1. Think Function First

Before diving into styles and finishes, ask yourself:

What type of experience am I offering? Quick coffee, long lunches, evening drinks?
How long do I want guests to stay?
How busy is my venue likely to get?

The answers will influence whether you choose lightweight stackable chairs, fixed banquette seating, high tables with bar stools, or more lounge-style setups. A busy café with a high turnover needs very different furniture from a slow-paced wine bar.

2. Choose Commercial-Grade (Contract) Furniture

Not all furniture is created equal. Domestic pieces simply won’t stand up to the wear and tear of a hospitality environment.

Contract furniture is:

Built for high-traffic spaces
Designed with commercial safety and fire regulations in mind
Easier to clean and maintain
Backed by warranties for peace of mind

Tip: Always check that fabrics and finishes meet UK fire safety standards (BS5852) / CRIB5 Fabrics.

3. Get the Sizing Right

Proportions are everything. Customers want to feel comfortable, not cramped.

Here are some standard sizing guidelines:

Dining table height: 730mm–750mm
Dining chair seat height: 450mm–480mm
Bar table height: 1000mm–1100mm
Bar stool seat height: 750mm

Also, allow at least 600mm of table width per person, and 300mm between chairs for easy movement.

4. Match the Furniture to Your Brand

Your tables and chairs should visually express your venue’s identity. Whether you're going for rustic charm, Scandi minimalism, industrial edge, or retro diner vibes—furniture can bring your concept to life.

Consider:

Material finishes: Laminate, solid wood, timber, metal, marble, laminate
Colours: muted tones for elegance, bold colours for energy
Chair styles: vintage bentwood, sleek contemporary, cushioned or minimalist

Everything should feel cohesive, from your counter stools to your outdoor chairs.

5. Prioritise Comfort

Customers who are comfortable stay longer—and spend more. Think beyond looks and focus on ergonomic support:

Chairs with a curved back or arms
Upholstered seating for extra comfort
Table heights that don’t strain diners

Even high stools should offer a stable, supportive experience, especially if customers are spending an hour or more seated.

6. Plan Your Layout Carefully

The best tables and chairs are worthless if your layout doesn’t work. Make sure your furniture choices:

Allow for smooth traffic flow
Include flexible options (e.g. movable tables, stackable chairs)
Accommodate different group sizes
Fit within your available floor space

Consider a mix of two-tops, four-tops, and high tables to keep things flexible and accommodate different customer needs throughout the day.

7. Don’t Forget Outdoor Spaces

If you have outdoor seating, this can be a huge draw for foot traffic—especially in warmer months. Just make sure you choose:

Weatherproof materials like aluminium, polypropylene, or treated timber
Stackable options for easy storage
Durable finishes that won’t fade or degrade outdoors

Tip: Keep your brand consistent indoors and out—carry over colours or styles where possible.

8. Think Long-Term

It’s tempting to chase trends, but the best café and bar furniture balances timeless style with modern touches. Choose furniture that will still look good—and function well—years from now.

Also, consider:

Availability of spare parts or replacements
Lead times if ordering made-to-order or custom pieces
Warranties or support from your supplier

9. Work with the Right Supplier

At Furniture North East we understand the requirements of the hospitality industry and offer expert advice tailored to your space. This includes:

Providing a wide selection of commercial furniture, with stock and made to order options
Custom options and finishes
Knowledge of safety and compliance
Space planning service to maximise your spaces potential and covers.
A showroom where you can see, sit and touch before ordering.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tables and chairs for your café or bar is about more than just filling a space—it’s about enhancing the customer experience, reflecting your brand, and creating a layout that works for both staff and guests.

By investing in high-quality, commercial-grade furniture, you’ll be setting your venue up for long-term success—and ensuring your customers return time and again.

Looking to furnish or refurbish your café or bar?
We supply durable, stylish contract furniture for hospitality spaces across the UK. From classic café chairs to bespoke banquette seating, we’ll help you bring your vision to life. Get in touch today or visit our showroom to browse our full range.