Furniture

Choose commercial-rated chairs with metal or heavy beech frames, reinforced joints, and vinyl or stain-resistant upholstery. Residential furniture is not designed to withstand daily stacking, frequent cleaning, and high guest turnover in foodservice environments.

Restaurant chairs and tables do not require NSF or UL certification like food-contact or electrical equipment. For safety and liability, the key requirement is commercial-grade construction rated for public occupancy rather than residential use.

Dining height is approximately an 18-inch seat with a 30-inch table, counter height is about 24 inches with a 36-inch surface, and bar height is roughly 30 inches with a 42-inch top. Mixing heights is common, but stools must match table height to avoid guest discomfort and potential ADA issues.

Outdoor restaurant furniture is built with UV-stabilized resins, marine-grade vinyl, powder-coated metals, and drainage features. Indoor woods and fabrics are not designed for sun, rain, or washdowns and can rot, fade, or delaminate outdoors.

Solid wood tables require more maintenance in high-traffic settings. Laminate and composite tabletops replicate wood appearance while resisting heat, cut marks, and harsh sanitizers, making them the preferred choice for fast-paced dining rooms.