Restaurant Tables Guide

Restaurant Tables Guide

When it comes to restaurant design, the selection of the right table is of utmost importance. With countless options available, it can be difficult to find the perfect fit for your establishment's unique interior design, color scheme, and overall style. However, a restaurant table is much more than just a piece of furniture - it is the centerpiece of the dining room where guests gather to enjoy meals and create lasting memories with loved ones. At Seating Masters, we understand the significance of this decision, which is why we are committed to helping you navigate through the multitude of choices. Our comprehensive guide breaks down table top shapes, materials, sizes, and features, along with compatible table bases. With our expertise and attention to detail, we strive to assist you in finding the ideal table that will seamlessly complement your restaurant's layout and decor.

What is the Most Durable Table Top for Restaurants?

A well-designed table top not only offers a pleasing visual aesthetic but also provides a durable and sturdy surface for guests to enjoy their dining experience. Many table designs choose to use the same material throughout, creating a cohesive and uniform look. However, there are also tables that feature a different material for the frame and base, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the design. This variation in materials can create a visually interesting contrast that enhances the overall atmosphere of the restaurant. Whether the choice is for a consistent or contrasting design, the selection of materials for the table top has a significant impact on the overall quality and experience of the dining establishment.

While there is not one best material, each table top material has its own pros and cons depending on your needs and intended use:

Wood Table Tops

Wood table tops are known for their durability and luxurious look makes them ideal for indoor use. These tables are designed to withstand consistent use and are resistant to wear and tear. However, they do require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. This includes cleaning the surface regularly and periodically refinishing it to maintain its appearance.

Proper care and maintenance will ensure that your wood table tops remain in excellent condition, allowing you to enjoy their beauty and functionality for years to come. It is worthy to note that wood tables made of teak, cedar, and bamboo can be used in outdoor settings.

Laminate Table Tops

Laminate table tops are a versatile and durable choice for commercial spaces. Constructed using layers of resin-impregnated paper, these table tops are compressed under high heat and pressure, resulting in a sturdy and resilient surface. The top layer is designed with a decorative pattern or color, allowing for a wide range of design options that can mimic any number of materials.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, laminate table tops are highly durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. The resin coating makes them easy to clean and maintain, making them particularly suitable for high-traffic areas like restaurants or bars.

Granite Table Tops

Granite, frequently used in the construction of countertops, is becoming increasingly popular in luxurious restaurant table designs. Its unparalleled hardness, durability, and resistance to scratches and heat make it an excellent choice for restaurant tables. Some granite tables granite can be used both indoors and outdoors, making them a practical option for various dining environments.

In addition to their remarkable functionality, the natural beauty and timeless elegance of granite contribute to creating a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance in high-end restaurants.

Resin table tops

Resin table tops are a popular choice in commercial spaces due to their durability, strength, and unique aesthetics. The combination of epoxy resin and hardener creates a glossy, clear surface that can be poured over a wood core, resulting in a durable and long-lasting table top.

Resin table tops are resistant to scratches, stains, UV, and heat, making them suitable for daily use in various settings. Additionally, the versatility of the resin allows for creative and interesting designs, giving each table top its own distinctive appearance.

Synthetic teak table tops

Synthetic teak table tops have a realistic look that closely resembles natural teak wood. Made from resin and recycled materials, they are highly durable and weather-resistant, able to withstand exposure to sunlight, rain, and other outdoor elements without fading, warping, or cracking. These table tops have low maintenance requirements, as they do not need regular staining, sealing, or oiling like real teak wood.

With their attractive appearance and easy upkeep, synthetic teak table tops are a practical and convenient choice for those seeking a long-lasting and beautiful outdoor furniture option.

Steel / Aluminum table tops

Steel or aluminum table tops are an excellent choice for businesses looking for a reliable and versatile option especially for outdoors dining. Aluminum and steel have rust-resistant properties make them a durable choice, ensuring longevity and minimizing maintenance requirements. These table tops are aesthetically pleasing, adding a sleek and modern touch to any setting.

With their heavy-gauge construction, these tables can withstand the rigors of daily use, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings. Overall, steel and aluminum table tops provide a durable, attractive, and practical solution for various commercial needs.

Table Tops Shapes

Rectangular

The most popular table shape in modern settings is the rectangular table, which offers numerous practical advantages. One notable advantage is the ability to accommodate larger groups of guests and effortlessly expand seating capacity. However, due to the added weight and size of the larger rectangular tops, it is advisable to utilize sturdy 2 prong bases or industrial table legs to ensure stability and support.

Square

Square table tops not only bring a classic touch, but they also ensure equal spacing and a closer seating arrangement, fostering a more intimate and engaging dining experience. The versatile design of square tops makes them an ideal choice for compact dining spaces, comfortably accommodating up to four diners.

Round

Round table tops, although not the most space-efficient option, excel in promoting interactive conversations among patrons. Their adaptable seating options, coupled with features like hinged edges or a drop leaf for increased surface area, create a versatile dining space.

Drop Leaf

Drop leaf is a great way to enjoy the best of two worlds. saving space by having square tables for everyday use, whike also having the option to make the tables round and larger as need arises, allowing you to accommodate larger parties without having to move furniture around.

Table Bases Components

Table bases are integral to the functionality and aesthetic appeal of restaurant tables. Careful consideration must be given to the choice of table base, as it directly affects the overall usability and comfort of the dining experience. In addition to ensuring a suitable appearance, size compatibility with the tabletop is of utmost importance to avoid any incongruity which could lead to awkward and uncomfortable seating. At Seating Masters, we pride ourselves on providing table bases that are expertly designed and equipped with essential components necessary for optimal stability, balance, and support.

Spider

The spider, an integral component in the construction of a table, is positioned atop the column while serving as a pivotal connecting point between the table top and the table base. Its crucial role lies in providing stability and structural support, ensuring that the table remains secure and steady.

Column

The column is a crucial component within the framework of a base, acting as a cornerstone that guarantees essential support and stability for a variety of table tops providing users with a comfortable dining surface.

Base Plate

Available in a number of styles and shapes the base plate, positioned at the bottom of the base, serves as an essential component providing stability and reliable support for the entire structure ensuring a secure and well-balanced foundation.

Glides

Glides are indispensable components that are fitted beneath the base plates to safeguard the integrity of both the base finish and floors. The glides are also adjustable, to easily stop the table from wobbling when placed on uneven surfaces.

The Different Types of Tables Used in Restaurants

Strategically selecting restaurant tables that are both well-balanced in style and size can help minimize the waiting time for guests to be seated. The amount of dining space required per person at a table will vary depending on the type of menu being served. For instance, a fast-food menu typically demands less dining space per person in contrast to a three-course dinner menu. In addition, tables used in coffee houses tend to be smaller compared to those used in family dining restaurants. When choosing restaurant tables, one must also take into account the available floor space. Measurement of your available space is needed to determine the amount and type of tables needed. Some of the most common are shown below:

Intimate Dining

Our 2-4 person tables are the preferred choice for restaurants, offering the versatility to accommodate smaller groups while maximizing floor space. These tables are typically composed of a separate table top and base, allowing for customization options such as various wood finishes, laminates, resins, and even branded designs. The bases are available in durable materials including cast iron, aluminum, or chrome. Our tables come in a range of dimensions, from 24" x 24" for square tops to 48” x 36” for rectangular tops, and 24” to 36” for round tops, ensuring a perfect fit for any dining space.

Commercial Bar Tables

Bar height tables are a key feature in bars, pubs, and casual dining establishments, offering a distinctive and enjoyable dining experience. These tables are designed to be taller than standard dining tables, allowing guests to sit on bar stools or high chairs comfortably. This elevated design promotes a sense of camaraderie and socialization, ideal for enjoying drinks or casual dining with friends and family. With sleek and stylish aesthetics, bar height tables add a touch of sophistication and contemporary charm to any establishment, making them a favored choice for those looking to create a trendy and inviting atmosphere

Communal Dining

Serving as versatile and welcoming gathering spaces, these large tables have proven to be a valuable asset for establishments aiming to foster a sense of community among patrons. With their open seating arrangements, they offer a social and interactive dining atmosphere, perfect for groups or solo diners looking to connect and engage with others. In addition to enhancing social interactions, these spacious tables optimize seating capacity while also optimizing space allocation, allowing venues to seamlessly accommodate a larger number of guests.

Outdoor Restaurant Tables

Outdoor restaurant tables that are weather resistant are a crucial feature for any establishment's outdoor dining space. These tables can be found in a range of materials including synthetic teak, cedar, resin, rattan, and stainless steel. In addition to material options, these outdoor tables are available in both standard regular table and bar height sizes, providing flexibility in design as well as in functionality.

Table Top and Table Base Sizing: Creating a Stable and Safe Restaurant Table

Ensuring a secure and sturdy foundation for your restaurant table is essential, which is why finding the perfect fit between table tops and table bases size is of utmost importance. To assist you in this regard, we have created the table below that simplifies the process of selecting the appropriate base to match your table top seamlessly. By following our guidance, you can ensure optimum durability, safety, and an ideal equilibrium, thus effectively avoiding any wobbling or instability issues that could potentially compromise your guests' dining experience.

Table Size Base Size
Rectangular
X Prong
Round
24” x 30” 22” x 22” 17” round
24” x 42” 22” x 30” 22” round
24” x 48” 22” x 30” 22” round
30” x 42 22” x 30” 22” round
30” x 48” 22” x 30” 22” round
30” x 60” (2) 22” x 22” (2) 17” round
30” x 72” (2) 22” x 30” (2) 22” round
Table Size Base Size
Round
X Prong
Round
24” Diameter 22” x 22” 17” round
30” Diameter 22” x 22” 17” round
36” Diameter 30” x 30” 22” round
42” Diameter 36” x 36” 30” round
48” Diameter N/A 30” round
54” Diameter N/A 30” round
60” Diameter N/A 30” round
Table Size Base Size
Square
X Prong
Round
24” x 24” 22” x 22” 17” round
30” x 30” 22” x 22” 17” round
36” x 36” 30” x 30” 22” round
42” x 42” 36” x 36” 30” round
Table Size Base Size
Drop Leaf
X Prong
Round
30” x 30”
opens to 42” round
N/A 30” round
36” x 36”
opens to 51” round
N/A 30” round
42” x 42”
opens to 60” round
N/A 30” round