Furniture

Look for commercial-rated frames (metal or heavy beech), reinforced joints, and vinyl or stain-resistant upholstery. Residential furniture rarely survives daily stacking, mopping, and turnover in foodservice.

Chairs and tables do not require NSF/UL the way food contact or electrical equipment does. For code and liability, the priority is buying commercial-rated seating built for public occupancy, not home grade.

Dining height is ~18" seat / 30" table; counter is ~24" / 36"; bar is ~30" / 42". Mixing heights is common, but match stool height to table height to avoid guest discomfort and ADA complaints.

True outdoor furniture uses UV-stabilized resins, marine vinyl, powder-coated metal, and drainage in seats. Indoor woods and fabrics rot, fade, or delaminate when exposed to sun, rain, and washdowns.

Real wood needs more care; laminates and composite tops mimic wood but resist heat, cut marks, and sanitizer. For heavy turnover and fast cleaning, most operators choose laminate or resin over solid wood.