The Guide to Essential Furniture for Outdoor Restaurants

Running a restaurant can be tough in the 2020s. Thousands close year on year across the UK, which is why successful ones need to have clear USPs that set them apart from the competition.

Fully or partially outdoor restaurants often stand out to consumers, especially during spring and summer, when guests can enjoy meals in warm, fresh air while basking in sunlight. The key to a successful outdoor eatery? The right commercial outdoor furniture.

This article will be a guide to the essential seating, tables, benches and other items of furniture that any outdoor restaurant area needs to provide a comfortable experience that customers will come back for.

Essential outdoor restaurant seating
Restaurants with outdoor seating plans need to invest in weather-resistant, practical chairs that will facilitate efficiency and last long working lifetimes. A core functional point is that outdoor seating should mostly be stackable or foldable, as this will allow for easy storage and manoeuvring. Both of these benefits are essential for easy storage, especially in environments with unpredictable weather.

When buying seating, you need to look for the right materials, which include:

• Aluminium or stainless steel frames that are lightweight and corrosion resistant
• Woven natural or synthetic rattan, wicker or rope seats and backrests
• Polypropylene which is lightweight but very durable
• Water-resistant and quick drying cushions for comfort

Of course, every eating area needs chairs, but some other essential seating pieces include picnic benches or outdoor sofas, each of which can be great for larger communal tables or pre-dinner drinks/coffee. You can also invest in outdoor barstools if you have suitable areas or higher tables.

Outdoor table essentials
Tables for outdoor restaurants need to follow some of the same guidelines as seating, in that they should be lightweight, weather-resistant and easy to store. However, they should also be particularly sturdy, as they will need to support peoples’ meals and drinks.

When it comes to materials, you should look out for bases and tops that use materials like:

• Aluminium or stainless steel again, as they can be lightweight and lasting
• Treated teak / iroko or other woods which add a nice appearance but need more maintenance

It’s also worth considering that some tables will come as fully crafted pieces, while some will come with separate bases and tops. Also, your focus shouldn’t be on dining tables alone, as coffee tables can be very handy for accommodating different eating or drinking experiences.

Additional touches
Beyond the most essential furniture, it’s also important to consider the additional touches that can ensure the utmost outdoor comfort for your guests, such as:

• UV-resistant and waterproof parasols or covers for all-weather dining
• Patio heaters which allow for cooler evening experiences
• Wind and rain barriers
• Decorative elements like lighting and greenery
• Additional cushions or seat pads for your seating area

Start furnishing your outdoor restaurant
If you’re on the hunt for outdoor restaurant furniture, look no further than Hill Cross Furniture. We have a massive range of seating and table options in a range of styles to ensure every outdoor eatery can be as functional and personality driven as possible.

For more insights into the world of commercial furniture, visit our blog today!