So much planning goes into setting up a new restaurant. The design, decor, materials, and table style are all just as important as the food. Another key consideration is table size. To make the most of your establishment’s size and dimensions, you need to choose the right tabletop size.
Restaurant table dimensions influence the functionality, practicality, and even the ambiance of your restaurant. It can mean the difference between a well-functioning and attractive layout, or a confusing and dysfunctional one.
Don’t be alarmed, all you need to get it right are a few simple guidelines. You’ll find them below in our guide on choosing the right restaurant table size.
Factors to Consider When Determining the Right Table Size
The restaurant table size that you choose should harmonize with all the other dimensions in your restaurant. This is key to catering to a proportionate and aesthetically pleasing dining environment, but appearance should not be the only consideration when choosing tables.
Before purchasing any restaurant furnishings or making major rearrangements in your restaurant dining space, consider a consultation with a professional interior designer who has experience in the restaurant business. They will be knowledgeable of any rules and regulations. An interior designer will also be up to date on the latest trends and space-saving techniques.
Use the following guidelines to assist you in making an informed decision on tables for your restaurant dining space.
The Size of Your Restaurant
Always consider the restaurant size and available floor space before selecting the table size. The number of tables you want, and the table dimensions will need to work within those measurements.
A small space will, of course, accommodate fewer tables and chairs. Using smaller, streamlined tables will seat more individual parties.
A small restaurant will look awkward and crowded if you use tables and chairs that are too large and bulky for the available space. By choosing more streamlined options, your patrons won’t feel as boxed in, and waitrons will find it easier to navigate around them.
Even in small restaurants, large parties still need accommodations. The use of drop-leaf tables can maintain a spacious atmosphere while providing the ability to accommodate larger parties when needed.
Seating Capacity
Your seating capacity also plays a role in selecting the right restaurant table size. How many people do you need to accommodate, and how many chairs can your space comfortably include?
It’s not exclusively about comfort. Respecting the seating capacity and your intended seating plan when selecting restaurant table dimensions is also practical, as it allows better maneuverability between tables and chairs.
There are techniques for optimizing your space and increasing your seating capacity. For example, a few communal tables with bench seating can accommodate many people, while allowing enough space for service aisles and maneuverability between tables. However, this usually only works in more casual dining establishments.
Drop-leaf tables can also provide adjustability when it comes to seating a range of party sizes. These space-efficient tables can quickly change your seating capacity to fit the ebb and flow of your customers.
Ultimately, it is not simply up to how creative you can be with your table placement, but also regulations. Check to make sure your permitted occupancy load and seating capacity align. The National Fire Protection Association highlights table and chair arrangements as a common area of concern when it comes to fire safety. Overcrowding your dining space with tables and chairs could lead to violations and create a dangerous environment for your customers and staff.
Table Spacing
Your restaurant table dimensions must also allow enough spacing between tables. When guests are seated at tables that are too close together, they can feel crowded and uncomfortable. There should be enough space to allow them privacy for their mealtime conversations.
All customers must be able to get in and out of their seats with ease. If tables are too close together, chair maneuverability becomes limited. Areas can become congested when multiple guests rise to leave or go to the restroom. This is also a potential safety hazard.
Staff productivity is also something to consider when spacing tables. Tables too close together hinder the ability of waitrons to properly serve guests. Your serving staff should be able to easily navigate through tables to serve food and beverages without risk of accidents.
Consideration of ADA regulations is crucial when planning the layout of your public spaces. The Americans With Disabilities Act protects the rights of those with disabilities by providing guidelines for businesses to provide accessibility for all. Ensure that tables are wheelchair accessible and the proper spacing is provided. According to the ADA guide, a clear floor area of 30 inches by 48 inches should be provided at each accessible seating location. A clear path to each table should also be available. Meeting these table spacing requirements is a priority when planning the layout of the restaurant.
Your Cuisine
Think about how much surface space guests will need for their meals before choosing table sizes.
Although it may not occur to you initially, your cuisine plays a big part in choosing the right table sizes.
If your restaurant focuses on mezze – multiple small portions of dishes at once – or sharing platters, you’ll need more table surface space. Even a dinner for two can lead to a very crowded table. If the tabletop is too small, they may struggle for space to put their drinks if there are large or multiple dishes on the table.
Perhaps your restaurant serves light meals only, like sandwiches and salads, or you might only serve café cuisines like cakes, pastries, and croissants. In these cases, smaller tabletops will suffice, as these meal options don’t require large serving platters or multiple bowls and plates.
Shape: Square vs Round
Square vs round – it’s more than just a question of aesthetics. The surface of a round tabletop will take up less space than a square one, even when they each accommodate the same number of place settings. However, your tabletop style and shape should fit in with the rest of your restaurant design.
By choosing predominantly curved lines, or angular ones, you achieve a cohesive and harmonious effect. Too many styles and shapes can look chaotic. This may be acceptable for a casual outdoor restaurant with a quirky style, but it is not a good look for a fine dining restaurant.
Consider the table size guides below as you consider your preferred table shape. This will give you an idea of your options for restaurant table dimensions and the number of seats each size and shape accommodates.
Adjustable Table Sizes and Shapes
Drop-leaf tables stand as a beacon of adaptability and elegance, effortlessly marrying space efficiency with aesthetic appeal. These versatile tables offer an ingenious solution to varying dining needs, transitioning smoothly between sizes to accommodate everything from cozy dinners to larger parties. Their ability to optimize space without compromising the dining experience makes them an invaluable asset, especially in establishments where flexibility is key.
The simplicity of drop-leaf table design enables staff to quickly adjust table sizes. Rather than moving tables and chairs to accommodate larger parties, staff will save themselves time, stress, and physical strain by making a quick and easy adjustment to one individual table. Adjustable table sizes can also ensure faster seating for waiting customers. Fewer tables needed to accommodate a large party allow for more groups to be seated at a time. This means lower wait time for service and higher customer satisfaction.
With a range of styles and finishes, drop-leaf tables not only adapt to your space and customer flow but also enhance the ambiance, ensuring that your restaurant remains a welcoming and versatile space for every guest.
Drop-leaf tables are available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The transition from a square to a circular shape is the most common drop-leaf transition; however, there are many options available for rectangular tables as well.
The flexibility of these tables in your dining space is virtually essential considering the constant fluctuation of guests and the sizes of each party. Adjustable table sizes allow for customization for each group of guests. With drop-leaf tables, your customers will be pleased to have received prompt seating at a table properly sized for their needs.
You can find a table size guide on different drop-leaf tables below.
Charts For Table Seating
To select the correct restaurant table size, you need to know how many people each size can seat. Are you unsure of how many guests (and therefore place settings) each table size can comfortably accommodate? Refer to these charts of standard restaurant table dimensions and their typical seating capacity.
Please take note that these are guidelines for standard table sizes and their typical seating potential. A range of factors can influence the seating possibilities of table sizes, such as the menu offerings. Also, custom-made tables of non-standard size may offer very different seating potential.
Square Tables
Square tables are ideal for smaller groups of guests. They fit well into corners, maximizing space.
Standard square restaurant table sizes | Number of seats/people typically accommodated |
24″ wide x 24″ long | 2, Drinks and small plates only |
30″ wide x 30″ long | 2 |
36″ wide x 36″ long | 4 |
42″ wide x 42″ long | 4 |
48″ wide x 48″ long | 4 to 8 |
Rectangular Tables
Rectangular tables are ideal for larger groups of guests. They are suitable for business lunches, as they allow senior staff to sit at the ‘head’ of the table. They work best along walls and can also fit neatly against corners.
Standard rectangular restaurant table sizes | Number of seats/people typically accommodated |
24″ wide x 30″ long | 2 |
24″ wide x 42″ long | 4 |
24″wide x 48″ long | 4 |
30″ wide x 48″ long | 4 |
30″ wide x 60″ long | 6 |
30″ wide x 72″ long | 6-8 |
Round Tables
Round tables are suitable for both small and large groups of guests. They encourage a more inclusive atmosphere when used for larger groups. Round tables do not utilize space effectively when placed in corners or against walls. They are, however, ideal for the center of room positioning.
Standard round restaurant table sizes | Number of seats/people typically accommodated |
24″ surface diameter | 2, drinks and small plates only |
30″ surface diameter | 2 |
36″ surface diameter | 3 to 4 |
42″ surface diameter | 4 to 5 |
48″ surface diameter | 4 to 5 |
60″ surface diameter | 6 |
72″ surface diameter | 6-8 |
Conclusion
Choosing the right restaurant table size is integral to the ambiance and functionality of your dining space. It’s a nuanced decision that impacts guest comfort, space utilization, and the overall dining experience. From considering the size of your establishment and seating capacity to aligning with the demands of your cuisine, every aspect plays a crucial role. Introducing drop leaf tables adds a layer of adaptability, allowing for seamless transitions to accommodate varying guest numbers without sacrificing style or space.
At TimeWorn, we specialize in providing unmatched solutions that blend seamlessly with your restaurant’s design and operational needs. Our extensive range of wooden communal tables, table enhancements, and wood tabletops in various finishes ensures you have the flexibility to create a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment. Reach out for a consultation, and let us assist you in selecting the perfect tables that not only meet your functional requirements but also elevate your restaurant’s ambiance.
FAQ
What are standard restaurant table sizes?
The most common restaurant table sizes are: 24×24, 24×30, 30×30, 36×36, 30×48, 30×60 and 30×72
How much space is needed per diner?
Ideally, allocate about 24 to 30 inches of space per diner to ensure comfort.
What size table is best for a small restaurant?
Small restaurants benefit from 24” square tables or 24” diameter round tables to maximize space. You will however be limited to small plates and drinks.
How many people can fit at a 60-inch round table?
A 60-inch round table can comfortably seat 4 people.
What’s the ideal table size for a party of 4?
A 42×42 square, a 36×36 to 42” round droop leaf or a 30”x48” rectangular table, is ideal for 4 diners.
What size tables are best for fine dining restaurants?
Fine dining restaurants might opt for larger tables, like 30”x48” for four people and typically nothing smaller than 36×36”, to allow for more elaborate place settings.
What’s the minimum table size for a couple’s dining?
For a full-service dinner, we do not recommend going under 30”x30” in size for serving 2 people.
How much space should be between restaurant tables?
Aim for at least 18 to 24 inches between tables to allow for chair movement and server access.
What table shape maximizes restaurant seating?
Drop leaf tables will maximize your restaurant seating. Converting from a square or rectangle to a round or larger rectangle.
Are communal tables more space-efficient than individual tables?
Communal tables can seat more guests in less space compared to individual tables, so they are more efficient than individual tables.
What considerations should be made for booth seating table sizes?
Ensure the table fits comfortably within the booth, typically between 30” and 42” in width.
How do I select table sizes for a restaurant with mixed seating styles?
Choose a variety of sizes that fit the space and seating style, ensuring each area has adequate room for movement when you are trying to mix seating styles.
What’s the best table size for a restaurant bar area?
Smaller, narrow tables around 24” wide are suitable for bar areas to accommodate drinks and small plates.
How do I ensure ADA compliance with restaurant tables?
To be ADA compliant, include tables with heights between 28” and 34” and provide knee clearance of at least 27” in height, 30” in width, and 19” in depth. And avoid using pedestal bases.
What size tables work best in a narrow restaurant space?
Narrow rectangular tables work well in narrow restaurants, about 24”-30” wide work well.
Can larger tables be used effectively in a fast-casual restaurant?
Larger tables can be used for groups in a fast-casual restaurant but mixing them with smaller tables can help manage space and turnover rates effectively.
What’s the impact of table size on diner comfort?
Adequate table size ensures comfort, personal space, and enhances the dining experience.
How do I choose table sizes for a restaurant with versatile dining options?
Select a range of sizes to accommodate different group sizes and dining needs when your restaurant aims for versatile dining options.
What table sizes are recommended for a restaurant with high turnover?
Smaller tables encourage faster dining, suitable for high turnover establishments.
What considerations are important for selecting a banquet table size?
Consider the event type, number of guests, and room layout; Communal tables are the optimal choice for most banquet settings.
What are the benefits of drop leaf tables?
They offer flexibility for different group sizes and event types, maximizing space utilization.
