Often found in more casual restaurants, nightclubs, bars, or mall food courts, high-top tables or bar tables are higher than standard dining tables. Because of their height and size, these tables are known for maximizing space and creating a relaxed and trendy atmosphere.
But because they are much taller than standard tables, they also require higher seating than traditional dining tables or kitchen counters. This can impact your entire dining aesthetic.
So, what is a high-top table and is it the right choice for your restaurant? To help you answer that question, we’ve outlined the distinguishing characteristics of high-top tables as well as their advantages and disadvantages in the article below.
What Exactly Are High-Top Tables?
When deciding on furnishings like tables for your restaurant, club, or bar, you’ll already have a basic theme in mind. If you are unsure of whether high-top tables are for you, consider this – the clue is in the name. They are considerably higher than traditional dining tables.
This does not mean that they won’t be suitable for your business. However, a decision to use high-top tables also necessitates a particularly high chair, or bar stool, for seating next to it. So, if you don’t want to use these types of seating, you may want to rethink your choice of high-top tables.
The height of the table, and the seating needed for it, are not the only considerations. Being seated at a high table has a vastly different effect on the customer than a conventional dining set-up. It creates a different ambiance – one of informal dining and socializing.
The dimensions of your dining area also have a substantial influence on your choice of furniture. For example, higher tables look quite different in a cozy dining nook with a low ceiling recessed ceiling or exposed beams, than they would in a bustling diner. They might suit a crowded bar, yet not an expansive hall with lofty ceilings.
High-Top Tables vs Standard and Counter Height Tables
The height of dining tables (and the type of chairs that go with them) has a major impact on the flow of patrons and waiting staff, too. This is largely due to the layout of your restaurant floor plan though. While some restaurant owners find that higher counters and tables maximize the space more effectively, it will not necessarily be true for you.
High-top tables are what is known as bar height – as in the tables used for bars. Here is how they compare in height to standard and counter dining tables:
High Top Table
High-top tables stand as high as 40 to 42 inches (101-106 cm).
Ordinary dining chairs don’t work at this height, which means you must use bar chairs or stools.
Bar-height stools and chairs measure around 30 inches (76 cm) in height, but many barstools are also adjustable. There is a wide variety of styles available nowadays, as many as the traditional dining chairs.
Conventional Dining Table
A typical dining table height is usually approximately 28 to 30 inches (71-76 cm). The dining chairs that are typically used with such tables are about 18 inches (45 cm) high but can vary.
The chairs you choose for your restaurant should be at least 12 inches shorter than the table surface itself for comfortable proportions. Because of their popularity, it is much easier to find suitable and attractive dining chairs for a standard table than one with a higher top.
Counter Height Tables
High-top tables are often confused with counter height, but they are not the same. What is known as counter height falls in between traditional dining tables and high-top tables. It refers to the height of a typical kitchen counter.
Standard counter heights are between 34 to 36 inches (86-91 cm). The chairs or stools that work well with counter height are approximately 24 inches (61 cm) when measured from the floor to the seat.
The Pros and Cons of High-Top Tables
High-top tables offer both advantages and disadvantages. But how all these factors apply to you and your furniture needs will depend on your restaurant facilities and the aesthetic you’re after.
These are the most noted pros and cons that you may want to consider.
Pros
- It is an inescapable fact that accidents happen, especially in restaurants, and certainly with new waitrons. When you’re dealing with clumsy personnel, a high-top table is often the solution. Your waiting staff can easily deliver drinks and meals at this more ergonomic height.
- High-top tables can be made from wood, metal, or other materials. Yet there is no doubt that the beauty of handcrafted wood will lend your business a classy touch. This can be reclaimed wood, which is the top choice for sustainability – one of the prominent design trends for 2024.
- One of the biggest benefits of high-top tables is their versatility. They fit in with most decor themes, from classic or vintage retro to modern and chic, and are, of course, suitable for bars. Should you ever decide to incorporate a bar into your existing restaurant, you can repurpose the high-top tables in this new area.
- Another big plus with higher tables is that they work well in small restaurants. They tend to have a smaller diameter than standard tables, allowing more space to navigate around them. This makes them ideal for small spaces and tight corners. The extra height also creates the illusion of more space between tables.
- High-top tables are great for family restaurants. They are sometimes a better height for placing infants’ high chairs (feeding chairs) than traditional dining tables. These adjustable chairs, at their highest setting, can go as high as 38 inches (96 cm). This allows everyone to eat together, without any inconvenience.
Cons
- Despite their versatility, high-top tables are not ideal for people with mobility issues. They are typically used with barstools, which can be uncomfortable for people with back problems, as they don’t provide as much support as regular dining chairs.
- High-top tables are often unsuitable for people with physical disabilities, particularly those who need to use a wheelchair. A wheelchair will also not fit in by a high counter as well as it will at a traditional dining table. This is a problem if your restaurant is to be compliant with the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
- Even the most able-bodied patrons will not always appreciate a high-top table. This is particularly true for seniors. Traditional dining tables and chairs are usually more comfortable for them. Falling from a high stool can be extremely dangerous for people with brittle bone conditions like osteoporosis.
- High-top tables don’t suit every setting. They tend to be more suitable for a more casual atmosphere, like bars, rather than a formal dining restaurant.
Conclusion
Incorporating high-top tables into your restaurant or bar will maximize the space and give it a trendy vibe. Mixing this style with other, more traditional styles will give you more flexibility, and create more visual interest. But high-top or not, one thing you must never compromise on is quality.
To sum things up, high-top tables are a flexible option for a variety of dining settings because they provide a unique combination of style and utility. High-top tables can enhance the overall appeal of your venue, whether you’re trying to make the most of the available space in a small business or foster a laid-back, social atmosphere in a bar or nightclub. It’s important to balance their benefits against any potential disadvantages, though, especially in terms of accessibility and comfort for all customers. When thinking about including high-top tables into your design, keep in mind that the highest quality will guarantee longevity, comfort, and a smooth transition with your overall style. Please use our contact page to get in touch with us if you would like to discuss your options further or if you need help selecting the best option for your bar or restaurant. Allow TimeWorn to assist you in designing a dining area that fulfills your requirements and goes above and beyond your expectations.
FAQ
What are high top tables?
High top tables are tall tables, often used in bars and restaurants, which allow people to either sit on higher stools or stand comfortably around them.
What are the standard dimensions of high top tables?
The standard height for high top tables is about 40-42 inches. The table tops themselves range from 24”x24”, 24”x30” or 30”x30”.
How many people can comfortably sit at a high top table?
Depending on the table’s size, typically 2-4 people can comfortably sit around a high top table.
Are high top tables suitable for small spaces?
Yes, high top tables are well-suited for small spaces due to their compact footprint and vertical orientation, which can help save floor space.
What types of chairs or stools work best with high top tables?
Chairs or stools with a seat height of about 28 to 30 inches are best suited for high top tables to ensure comfortable seating.
How do I choose the right high top table for my space?
Consider the table top size and style to ensure it fits your space’s dimensions, design, and functional needs.
What is the ideal height for chairs or stools for high top tables?
The ideal seat height for stools or chairs used with high top tables is about 10 to 12 inches less than the table height.
Are there adjustable high top tables available?
Yes, adjustable Flat TECH high top table bases are available through us, allowing you to alter their height to suit different seating arrangements or activities.
How do high top tables enhance a room's Atmosphere?
High top tables add a dynamic vertical element to a room, offering a modern, sophisticated look that can enhance the overall decor.
What is the price range for high-top tables?
The price can vary widely, from affordable options with a 24×24 table top and a standard base for under $200 to $500 for auto-leveling bases and beautiful 30×30 rustic table.
Can high top tables be custom-made?
Yes, most of our high-top tables are built using custom solid-wood table tops allowing for personalized sizes, materials, and designs.
Are there foldable or portable high top tables for events?
Yes, foldable, and portable high top tables are available, designed for easy transport and storage for events.
How stable are high top tables?
Our High top tables are designed to be stable, but stability can vary based on the manufacturer.
What are the benefits of using high top tables in a commercial setting?
They promote a casual, social atmosphere, make efficient use of space, and can accommodate more guests in standing or bar stool seating arrangements.
Can high top tables be used as standing desks?
Yes, due to their height, high top tables can serve as standing desks, promoting better posture and ergonomics.
What design styles are available for high top tables?
You can select from any of our more than 40 custom restaurant table tops.
How do high top tables compare to traditional dining tables in terms of space efficiency?
High top tables are more space-efficient, making them ideal for smaller areas or venues seeking to maximize floor space.
How do high top tables fit into minimalist or modern interior designs?
Other than in a waiting room, we don’t recommend using high top tables in a formal dining setting.
How do high top tables compare to traditional dining tables in terms of space efficiency?
High top tables complement minimalist or modern designs with their sleek, simple shapes and efficient use of space, embodying both form and function.