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Picture your favorite outdoor dining experience and ask yourself why that experience was so memorable. It may have been because you were sharing the moment with a trusted friend or loved one. It may have been because the food you were served was so delicious. But there may be another reason why you had such a good time, and comfort likely played a big role. Outdoor restaurant furniture that’s sturdy, dry, and allows room for movement is always an attraction. When you’re searching for a dining set or pub table for your outdoor dining area, be sure to keep the comfort of your patrons at the top of your list of must-haves. There are many styles and materials of commercial patio furniture available, and California Dining & Barstools happily stocks a beautiful variety. We invite you to visit us in Sunnyvale or Pleasant Hill to see and experience our inventory for yourself. 

Types of Outdoor Restaurant Furniture

Once you’ve decided what type of tables and seating best suit the needs of your loyal patrons, you must choose a material. Common ones include wood, steel, aluminum, wrought iron, and plastic or resin. All can be made weather-resistant, and all can be designed with comfort in mind. However, each material has its own distinct benefits and limitations. To aid in your decision, we’ve compiled a list of the pros and cons associated with each one. You can find them all at California Dining & Barstools at affordable prices. 

1. Wood

Wood is classic. It’s timeless. And it’s lovely to look at. An outdoor patio featuring all wood furniture will lend your restaurant a definite mood. Whether you’re looking to create a space reminiscent of a ski chalet, a rustic cabin, or a cozy den, wood is a wonderful choice. You can even use unusual woods, such as bamboo, teak, or acacia, to create a lighter, airier atmosphere if your restaurant is located near the beach. According to This Old House guru, Bob Vila, some of the best woods for outdoor furniture include:

• Acacia — Acacia is naturally scratch- and dent-resistant but requires occasional re-sealing to protect it from sun and weather.  
• Black Locust — Black locust is extremely resistant to weather, but it’s also heavier than other woods. 
• Redwood — Redwood is gorgeous, but it’s pricey. It’s also a less sustainable choice than woods such as bamboo or acacia.
• Cypress — Cypress is pretty. It’s highly resistant to pests and weather. But it also requires regular re-sealing to keep it safe from the sun. 
• Cedar — Cedar is a soft, lightweight wood that’s easily portable. However, it’s vulnerable to dents, dings, and scratches. 

Finding the right furniture pieces is simply a process of weighing the advantages with the opportunities and seeing for yourself which material is the best one for your establishment. 

2. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is mostly impervious to extremes of weather. As a result, it’s highly resistant to rust. Stainless steel is also relatively lightweight, so your patrons can easily pull up an extra chair if needed. And the addition of a stainless-steel pub table or dining set can lend your outdoor dining space an attractive industrial appeal. Steel is minimalist. It’s sleek and simple, and you won’t have to worry about it soaking up water on even the wettest days. This material easily wipes dry with a cloth.

At the other end of the spectrum, steel is not typically considered a cozy material. But you can warm up this commercial restaurant furniture by topping tables with flower vases, candles, or tablecloths. And in covered patio areas, simple seat cushions add comfort, too.  

3. Aluminum

If it’s portability you desire, you can’t go wrong with restaurant patio furniture crafted from aluminum. This material is one of the most lightweight on the market. It’s also rust-resistant and cleans easily with the spray from a garden hose. Commercial restaurant furniture made of aluminum can be powder-coated in colors to complement every decor. Aluminum is also malleable, so you can find furniture that features different shapes and decorative designs. Maybe best of all, this material is easily recycled, which makes it a solid, sustainable choice. 

Still, though aluminum furniture is highly affordable, it lends itself more to casual dining. So, keep this in mind if your restaurant features a more formal dining experience. 

4. Wrought Iron

rought iron is another intriguing choice of material for patio furniture for restaurants. Wrought iron is heavy. It’s durable, and it lends an upscale feel. You can use it with or without cushions, and it will look nice either way. This material is ultimately more durable than wood, aluminum, plastic, or resin, and will require less care throughout the years. Eventually, it will rust if left out in the elements, but it’s easily sanded clean. 

In commercial restaurant furniture, wrought iron is popular because of its ability to hold weight. Wrought iron tables can handle even the heaviest of buffet settings, and chairs make it easy for larger patrons to dine in comfort. This material also often features ornate details that add charm and personality to a space. It’s perfect for cafes and coffee shops, and a wrought iron bistro table is a perfect choice wherever dainty desserts are a given. 

5. Plastic or Resin

Restaurant patio furniture crafted from plastic or resin is ideal for outdoor spaces that offer a casual dining experience. So, if your restaurant is located next to the boardwalk or inside the city park, plastic or resin is a good choice. Highly affordable and easily replaced, plastic or resin is a good fit for families with small children. It’s easy to wipe or spray clean, and you won’t have to worry about rust or deterioration. These materials are also very lightweight and portable, and they come in every color imaginable. 

However, these furniture pieces may fade over time when placed in bright sunlight, so a shaded patio is best. They’ll need to be replaced every few years, as well because they may eventually become brittle with age. Still, for the price, it’s hard to beat commercial patio furniture that’s made from plastic or resin. And if your outdoor patio caters to the casual crowd, we heartily recommend it. 

How to Choose Restaurant Outdoor Furniture

While the comfort of your guests should always be utmost in your mind when choosing commercial restaurant furniture, you’ll have other considerations, too. There’s the return you can expect on your investment, whether the furniture you choose complements your restaurant’s theme and mood, and how everything fits in the space you have available. We recommend keeping the following factors in mind as you’re actively shopping:

Efficiency

Does your outdoor restaurant furniture leave enough room for your wait staff, servers, and clean-up crew to move freely about? Stuffing too many furniture pieces, or pieces that are too large, into your space can cut down on your staff’s efficiency. Wait times may be longer, and guest satisfaction could be impacted. Fewer is usually better. And you might consider buying pieces that serve a dual purpose, such as pub tables that can accommodate either cocktails or dinner. And opting for benches instead of individual chairs may help you comfortably seat more patrons in less space.

Flow

And everyone must be able to navigate your dining room easily. This means not placing large, immovable pieces too close to doorways, stairways, or areas where guests need to walk, or where they may want to gather and converse. This includes check-out stands, entrances, exits, and near the restrooms. 

Appeal

Your new furniture should add to the attractiveness of your outdoor space. Essentially, you’ll want to ensure it matches the theme you’re trying to convey. Remember to leave room for accessories, such as umbrellas, awnings, potted plants, statuary, water features, or whatever else fits with the mood you’re trying to evoke. Have these items firmly located in your space before you begin bringing in tables and seating. 

And if your outdoor space features rugs or floor mats, be careful to purchase furniture with legs that won’t grip or catch on the corners. This will help you avoid creating a slip, trip, or fall hazard. 

Shop Commercial Restaurant Furniture at California Dining & Barstools

When you’ve considered all the scenarios, and you’re ready to choose the best commercial restaurant furniture for your needs, come see us at California Dining & Barstools. Since 1977, we’ve been helping restaurant owners beautify their dine-in eating spaces, both indoors and out. When you visit one of our on-site locations in Sunnyvale or Pleasant Hill, you’ll find a friendly, knowledgeable sales team that’s ready to assist. Even better, both locations feature showrooms where you can see, touch, and try out an impressive variety of pieces, including barstools, dinette sets, pub tables, and dining sets. Seeing is believing, and at California Dining & Barstools, we know you’ll find it easier to decide if you can see our furniture in person. Stop by today and sample the California Dining & Barstools difference. We’re happy to answer all furniture-related questions, and we’ll help you find the best, affordable options to suit your needs. 

 

Surprisingly, for most people, the bar stool is an underrated piece of furniture. While friends often mention how much they enjoy cuddling on the couch and how eagerly they anticipate falling into bed at night, none ever think to thank their bar stool. And they really should. After all, think of how many hours you’ve spent cozied up to the bar in your favorite dining or drinking establishment. Those hours would have been a lot less comfortable and a lot harder on your feet and back without your loyal friend — the bar stool.

So, enter the bar stool. These compact pieces of commercial restaurant furniture first began gaining popularity in America around the 1920s, though they’d long been ensconced in European establishments. The first bar stools were utilitarian in nature — made of wood and designed without backs or arm rests, so they could fit into small spaces. They served a single purpose, to allow patrons to linger at the bar in comfort where they could part with more of their hard-earned cash without becoming unduly stressed.

Fortunately, bar stools, like saloons, have improved over the years. Today, they’re beautifully designed to fit into even the most upscale establishments and some even have adjustable height capabilities. And while some types of stools are still minimalist in their design and construction, others are cushy and ornate, made to cradle patrons in lavish comfort as they recline at the bar.

As a restaurant owner, whichever types of barstools you favor, you’ll find a limitless supply available that complements your décor. The key is to match your style of bar stool to the preferences of your most loyal patrons. Give the people what they want, and they’ll keep coming back. And it all begins and ends with the bar stools you provide. 

8 Popular Styles of Barstools

Though you could likely find a bar stool out there to fit any specification or purpose, there are several different types that will never go out of fashion. Each has its own unique features and design, and some overlap. But ultimately, if you’re in the market for bar stools, eight categories will stand out. 

1. Bistro Style Bar Stools

Bistro bar stools make nice restaurant bar stools because they feature a back. This provides more comfortable seating for longer periods of time. The bistro-style bar stool does not feature arm rests, which makes it sleek and highly functional. It fits well into small dining areas, cafes, and anywhere space in front of the bar is limited. Bistro bar stools are traditionally made of wood. But today, everything goes. You can find simple bistro styles made of traditional wood, bamboo, or metal, and featuring both plain and padded seats designed for many types of counter types. 

2. Stationary Bar Stools

A stationary bar stool is one which doesn’t swivel. These are crafted of various materials, may or may not have a back or arm rest, and come in every size, shape, style, and color imaginable. Picture a regular chair, only taller. Most bar stools measure between 28 and 30 inches tall, which is taller than a kitchen, dining, or counter-height chair. 

Stationary bar stools are usually more suitable for dining or drinking around a table, because the patrons sitting on them have no need to swivel to hold conversations to the left or right. 

3. Swivel Bar Stools

Restaurant swivel chair bar stools, as you may have anticipated, swivel all the way around with a barstool swivel mechanism. Swivel barstools are perfect for prolonging conversations at the bar. However, swivel stools work well in dining and conversation areas, too, because patrons can swivel to talk to someone across the room without leaving their chair. 

4. Metal Bar Stools

Metal bar stools, as you can imagine, feature metal as their main material. Although many feature mixed materials to add comfort and flair. Metal bar stools feature a metal frame and may be made of steel, aluminum, or even wrought iron. They’re among the sturdiest of their kind, so if you’re in search of modern restaurant bar stools that will stand up to rowdy revelers, metal may be your best choice. Metal bar stools come in various styles, with every imaginable design and color — some with arm rests, some with backs, some with both. Keep in mind how long you would like your patrons to stay before deciding how comfortable your bar stools should be. 

5. Backless Bar Stools

Backless barstools simply feature a flat surface for your customers to seat themselves as they drink, dine, or converse. Simple and practical, they take up less space than more ornate styles of seating and tend to become less comfortable the longer one sits in them. Backless stools work well in front of the bar or situated around a tall, pub-style table. But they’re also good choices for seating along a bare wall where guests can lean back if needed. 

6. Pub Style Bar Stools

Pub-style bar stools typically feature a back with no arm rests. They’re nicely sized to fit the bar and and are the perfect choice for pub-height dining tables. More often than not, pub-style bar stools feature padded seats for added comfort and an upscale atmosphere. They may also be open-back barstools for added style.

7. Upholstered Bar Stools

Any of the stools previously mentioned may come upholstered. Upholstered bar stools generally cost more than scaled-down versions, and they make customers feel a bit more pampered. They are an excellent choice for many upscale dining and drinking establishments that feature upholstered barstools because they want their patrons to feel more like guests.

8. Wooden Bar Stools

Wooden bar stools, of course, are made of wood. Sturdy, elegant, and often pricier than metal, wood bar stools most closely resemble those vintage stools of old. You’ll find wood stools in every beautiful finish and every style, from backless to ornate. 

How to Choose Bar Stools for Your Restaurant

But with all these different styles of restaurant quality bar stools from which to choose, which ones are best for your business? Most modern stools run between 15 and 21 inches wide. You’ll want to keep these measurements in mind as you shop, especially if you have limitations with a smaller space. The wider the stool, the more space there should be between it and its brother. A good rule of thumb is to allow a minimum of 36 inches from the center of one stool to the next. You’ll also want to allow a good foot or a foot-and-a-half between your patrons knees and the front of the bar. Some bar stools are stackable, too, which can come in handy for floor cleaning and events that require the whole dance floor.

Shop California Dining & Barstools

When you’re ready to outfit your bar or dining room with the perfect stools, California Dining & Barstools is ready to help. Since 1977, we’ve provided the Bay Area with top-quality restaurant furniture at affordable prices. And when you buy from us, you get the added benefit of our years of experience. Let us help you choose the best barstools for your restaurant today. Stop by our showrooms in Sunnyvale or Pleasant Hill to learn more. 

You may not remember the 1950s, but that doesn’t mean you wouldn’t still love to experience them. Perhaps this explains the popularity of the 1950s retro diner. The 1950s were an exciting and vibrant era in America. The race for space was on, and focus was on home-cooked dinners and nuclear families. The anxiety of the war was only a memory, and prosperity and rock-and-roll loomed on the horizon. These were happy days for families whose members had survived the Great Depression and the second World War, and the good times were echoed in several exciting decor styles from this era, including:

• Atomic
• Geometric
• Scandinavian
• Minimalist
• Abstract

It was perfectly acceptable to smoke in public everywhere you went in the 1950s. Afterward, family members returned home to play board games such as Name That Tune and Outburst. Or they listened to records by Elvis Presley, Rosemary Clooney, and Kitty Kallen. In the evenings, they gathered around the console/cabinet television if they owned one and watched Bonanza or I Love Lucy. 

Sit-down dinners were the norm, so was gathering around the radio for a listen. The 1950s kitchen bore little resemblance to today’s modern marvels in several ways. Think pastel appliances and furniture with rounded corners. Toss in acres of Formica and chrome, and add countertop accessories like pink cannisters, and you have a solid vision of how the 1950s home appeared. Local diners surged in popularity, both as hang outs for local teens and as hot spots for families who could suddenly afford to dine out one or two nights a week, and the living was mostly easy. It makes sense that today’s restaurateurs should want to revisit this joyous decade in time.

Recreating the Retro Diner Aesthetic

If you’re a restaurant owner who wants to recreate a retro 1950s dining experience for guests, it all begins with your decor. Vintage-look flooring, era-appropriate wall colors and patterns, and even lighting all play roles. Several surprising colors were popular in the 1950s kitchen from which most modern designers would shy away today, including:

• Petal Pink
• Cadet Blue
• Canary Yellow
• Turquoise Green
• Sherwood Green
• Woodtone

Even kitchen appliances like stoves, refrigerators, toasters, and coffee pots boasted vivid pastels. Earth tones were also gaining popularity, with the warm, wood tones of couches and end tables made from mahogany, teak, rosewood, and walnut. You can echo these elements in your choice of 1950 retro dining table and chairs.

After all, it’s your restaurant furniture that makes or breaks your retro diner feel. To give guests an authentic experience, you’ll need specific items, including 50s retro dining chairs and tables, soda fountains, and other pieces of commercial restaurant furniture that echo the theme while holding up well to everything your guests dish out. California Dining & Barstools has everything you need to bring back the excitement and enthusiasm of the 1950s. 

Retro Dining Table

If you’re in the market for a retro dining table and chairs, look for pub tables or dinette sets that feature molded-body or upholstered chairs with simple chrome-plated or metal legs. Bright colors, such as red, green, or yellow are always solid choices in 1950 diner furniture, so are tabletops that feature Formica or inlay designs. Shapes are important in recreating the feel of diner-style furniture from the 1950s. Therefore, restaurant furniture that features futuristic designs, such as our Elite Modern Crystal Dining Table Set is ideal. The Elite Modern Mason Dining Table Set is another solid choice for bringing in gorgeous retro diner style without sacrificing comfort. Both sets pair modern features such as glass tabletops and counter-height seating with the minimalist design features and comfy upholstered chairs of Mid-Century Modern design. 

But if glass tables are more high-end than you desire for your kid-friendly, retro diner restaurant, California Dining and Bar Stools has many other options from which to choose. Our sturdy Borkholder Simplicity Dining Table is easily paired with our Saloom Bowtie Dining Chair or our New Pacific Direct Valencia Red Dining Chair to provide a top-notch dining experience for guests of most ages. And for retro diner furniture that’s up to the task of seating larger parties, the Borkholder Double Pedestal Dining Table seats six comfortably, when paired with the Saloom 64 SU Dining Chair.

When combined with authentic Mid-Century Modern accents, such as brightly patterned wallpaper, colorful Formica countertops, and retro fabric window treatments, your 50s retro dining chairs and tables will go far to create the fun diner environment you’re hoping to invoke. 

Retro Dining Chairs

Mid-century dining rooms were airy and sleek. Furniture choices were lightweight and simple. Ornate, heavy pieces became echoes of the past, and in their place, dining room tables, chairs and dinette sets took on a new, minimalist feel. In local diners, jukeboxes became fixtures, allowing patrons to play their favorite songs in exchange for a single coin. Cherry Coke and milkshakes were staple beverage choices, along with coffee and root beer floats. You may want to incorporate several of these fun features into your own retro restaurant, beginning with styles of seating. Several were popular in the 1950s diner, including:

• Upholstered booths
• Upholstered chairs
• Barstools
• Banquettes
• Chairs of molded plastic
• Wood

Today, commercial restaurant furniture, and retro seating specifically, is one important way to recreate those happy days of the 1950s. At California Dining and Barstools, we offer several seating options that look and feel as though they could have been salvaged directly from your favorite mid-century diner, minus the odor of stale cigarette smoke. We recommend the following:

• Regal Seating 513 Dining Chair: Sunny yellow upholstery provides comfort and a fun, vintage feel to every dine-in experience. 
• Regal Seating 513V Dining Chair: Metallic red and white, these 50s retro dining chairs will make guests feel like they’re in the backseat at an old-school drive-in again. 
• Regal Seating 513CB Dining Chair: Colorful, comfortable, and slim, this dining chair features a happy burst of red and functional, non-skid feet. 
• Regal Seating 1107 Barstool: Vibrant red upholstery and a sleek, chrome appearance give this little barstool an automotive feel, perfect for a 1950s drop-in diner. 
• Regal Seating 1106 Barstool: Green upholstery and chrome-look legs make this handy little barstool a mainstay for tight spaces. 

Crafted from durable metal and swathed in the bright, cheerful colors of the 1950s, our Regal Seating options are tough enough to handle big crowds and heavy traffic. Yet, they’re attractive and functional, too. Best of all, they recall that simpler time, when prosperity peppered every dinner conversation and expectations were high. You can bring a little of that joy to your own establishment by outfitting your dining room in authentic mid-century reproduction furniture at a fraction of the cost of high-end retailers. 

The Best in Restaurant Furniture

California Dining and Barstools offers only the highest quality retro-style restaurant furniture for your vintage-feel diner. When you’re ready to outfit your dining area with pieces that bring back the nostalgic era of the 1950s, we invite you to shop our diner-style furniture, including our dining room sets, dinettes, pub tables, barstools, and dining chair collections. You’re sure to find pieces to enchant and delight guests of all ages and to transport diners back to the happy days of 1950.

Modern restaurant furniture, not surprisingly, is based on Modernism — the art movement that developed after the Second World War.  Modernism, at that time, was a broad shift from the overly ornate woods, wrought iron accents, and Art Deco styles that came before, focusing instead on minimal design and simple, elegant comfort. Today, this style of restaurant furniture is governed by function. It’s light in both visual and physical weight and attractive without sacrificing comfort. Interchangeable pieces are easily moved around to accommodate large or small groups, and versatility is king, with barstools and bistro tables taking center stage alongside pub tables and dining chairs. In the modern dining room, emphasis is on creating a simplified dining experience, rather than on decorative elements that clutter and detract from the quality of food being served. 

If you’re a new restaurant owner who hopes to create a gratifying dining experience for future guests, the furniture and decor you choose will serve as your first impression. Make sure your dining room says what you want it to say by selecting simple, quality pieces that provide comfort, longevity, and visual appeal. 

Deciding on Your Restaurant Style

Restaurants are diverse in how they look and operate, and to be successful in your restaurant endeavor, you must have a firm idea in mind of who your customers are and why they should frequent your establishment over others in the area. That’s to say, you must have a style in mind. Examples of popular restaurant styles include:

• Fast Food
• Casual Dining
• Family-Style
• Fine Dining
• Bar or Pub
• Cafe

Each style of restaurant caters to a different clientele. And each has its own appearance and expectations. Pub tables and barstools, for instance, aren’t typically needed in a family-style restaurant that welcomes small children. Just as casual dinettes are not the best choices for upscale, fine-dining establishments. Before you begin investing in commercial restaurant furniture, you should identify who will be walking through your doors and anticipate what their needs will be. This will help you better set the stage for a more refined dining experience. 

Benefits of Modern Restaurant Furniture

Modern restaurant furniture is comfortable, not clunky. It’s small enough to allow customers to navigate freely around and between tables, yet large enough to seat guests of most weights and sizes. Best of all, it says whatever you want it to say. Modern commercial restaurant furniture can be elegant or casual, family-friendly, or for adults-only. It can seat young couples or retired businessmen, babies, or barflies. It’s adaptable and completely versatile, yet comfortable enough to keep patrons coming back again and again. There are many benefits to choosing this style of furniture for commercial dining:

• It’s on-trend and stylish.
• It’s versatile and highly customizable in regard to color, fabrics, and materials used.
• Much of it is height-adjustable.
• It’s easily moved from place to place.
• It’s made of durable materials that support tall or large guests.
• It’s low-frill and made for comfort. 
• It’s sleek and defined, eliminating the feel of a cluttered space. 
• Many pieces are interchangeable and/or multi-purpose. 

Your modern restaurant furniture supply store can help you choose pieces that make the best use of the space you have available. This is true for indoor pieces and for modern outdoor restaurant furniture as well. 

Choosing Modern Restaurant Chairs and Barstools

Your choice of restaurant seating will set the tone for what guests should expect, so it’s important to select dining chairs, barstools, or dinette pieces that are the right scale for your space. The pieces you select should optimize comfort without taking up unnecessary room. They should seat guests at the right height at your tables, counters, or bar and should be positioned in a way that encourages friendly conversation. And if your establishment offers different eat-in areas, make sure you furnish each area accordingly, including:

• Formal dining rooms
• Casual dining areas
• Outdoor dining spaces
• Play zones
• Conversation areas
• Cafe tables
• Counter or bar dining

This may mean investing in modern restaurant tables and chairs, outdoor metal tables and benches, casual fireplace seating, pub tables, dinettes, or commercial restaurant furniture that’s kid-sized or adjustable to accommodate infants. 

Choosing Modern Restaurant Dining Sets, Dinettes, or Pub Tables

Your choice of tables is important, too. You should fill your space without crowding it with furniture pieces. Patrons should be able to move freely between tables without bumping into other diners. They should also have adequate elbow room once seated. Booths should feature enough space between the bench and the table edge that larger guests can be comfortably seated without feeling cramped or crowded. 

When choosing modern restaurant tables, look for pieces that are sturdy yet compact. Choose pieces that can be combined in the event you need seating for a larger group. Tables should feature easy-clean surfaces and corners and edges that are customer-friendly. And they should work well with your choice of seating. While it’s not necessary to be matchy-matchy with your commercial restaurant furniture pieces, tables and chairs should complement each other, and they should provide a comfortable dining experience for your guests. 

Where to Buy Your Commercial Restaurant Furniture

California Dining and Barstools carries all the best in commercial furniture for restaurateurs who want to create a modern, trendy atmosphere. Since 1977, we’ve been outfitting the Bay Area with affordable, quality commercial furniture that’s comfortable and beautifully crafted. And if you need help choosing the right furniture pieces, our team is always onsite and ready to help. Visit us today at our location in Sunnyvale or Pleasant Hill to see all we have to offer new or existing restaurant owners in the way of attractive, high-performing commercial furniture. We proudly keep pieces in stock for you to see, touch, and experience before you commit to buying. From bistro tables to barstools, Regal to Pacific Direct, our furniture is all top-notch, durable, and easy to maintain. It’s capable of standing up to the years of use and abuse doled out by passionate diners who may frequent your restaurant and is sure to save you money with its quality construction and design. 

If you’re in need of commercial restaurant furniture that will keep patrons returning day after day, look no further than California Dining and Barstools, with two locations in Sunnyvale and Pleasant Hill. Stop in and see us today, or visit us online to view our beautiful gallery of commercial furniture pieces. 

A new year is upon us which makes many people start thinking about redesigning their homes. If you’re one who likes to refresh your home when you flip over the calendar, look for these trends when shopping at furniture stores in the Bay Area.

1. Plants

It’s human nature to appreciate a little greenery in your life. However, as the long days of winter drag on at the beginning of the year, it can be hard to get that natural green in your life. Bring in some plants, whether real or fake, to brighten up your dining space. Not only are they nice to look at, but they’re also a great way to energize your mind and body for the day ahead while you sip on that first cup of coffee.

2. Pops of Color and Patterns

White, beige, and gray are still popular choices for a dining room color scheme, but we’re starting to see bits of colorcome back into play. You may see this as a white table and chairs with bright upholstery, colorful art prints hanging on the wall, or a unique paint application on a statement wall. Especially prevalent are shades of rust orange paired with dark gray-blues. You might also see pops of patterns making their way into trend. This layering of fun patterns provides so much personality into any space. 

3. Marble Table Tops

Marble with gold or rose gold has become a favorite color combination lately for everything from stationary, to phone cases, and now home decor. Choose a table with white or gold legs and a marble-looking top to stay on trend this year. Marble is also a unique way to keep a fresh, bright look without being too bland. The white can be offset with almost any color of marbling, so shop around for dining furniture in San Francisco to find the one that suits your tastes.

4. Round Tables

Dining sets come in all shapes and sizes and the right style for you will depend on a lot of factors. However, we’re seeing a lot of homeowners opt for round tables in recent months. The casual feel of round tables gives a more intimate setting for quiet conversations. These are also ideal for smaller spaces since they’re easier to maneuver around but also provide a sleek, curving look that’s easy on the eyes.

5. Statement Lighting

Foyers and ballrooms aren’t the only place for chandeliers! Your dining room is the perfect place to add a statement lighting piece. Of course, it doesn’t have to be a glittering chandelier, but anything that’s large and matches the colors of your dining room will work well. Pendant lights are a great choice but also keep in mind how bright you want the bulbs to be (dimming bulbs are a great option!) as well as how low the light hangs if you have taller people in your family.

6. Multifunctional Spaces

Large kitchen islands have become a staple feature in many American kitchens. In grander homes, you can often find two or three islands in the kitchen that really allow for open space. Whether you use the island for preparing dinner, completing homework, or getting artsy, these surfaces can be the perfect place for many activities. Adding a few barstoolson one or two sides of the island make it easy to settle in for some quality work time.

7. Eat-In Kitchen

Many older homes were built with room in the kitchen for a small dining table, and then a larger dining room for full meals. The kitchen dining sets are coming back as we start multitasking more. Helping kids with homework or chatting with a friend while preparing a snack can still be accomplished with dinettes and pub tables in your kitchen area.

8. Art Deco

We’re seeing art deco furniture come back in 2022 interior style with bold geometric shapes and bold colors. This designtrend brings fun pieces to spice up different areas around the home. Art deco chairs are common in living room or dining room spaces. These chairs tend to use fun shapes and bold colors. 

9. Vintage Furniture

Furniture trends are leaning more sustainable with vintage furniture and overall style finding their way into homes. Vintage pieces bring so much character and decoration into a living room. 

On-Trend Dining Furniture in San Francisco

If you’re looking to refresh your dining and kitchen furniture in the new year, stop by California Dining & Barstools. We have a wide selection of dining furniture in several styles and price points. No matter which trend you’re trying to bring into your home, our friendly Furniture Specialists are ready to help! Stop in to our Sunnyvale/South Bay or Pleasant Hill locations today to see for yourself! You can also call your nearest store or send us a message online.

Furniture may not seem like the most obvious holiday gift for someone in your life, but it can be! These items are usually more expensive, and therefore can be cost-prohibitive to someone on a budget. Young adults, new homeowners, and those in a transition phase can all benefit from the gift of dining furniture. Give someone comfort and peace of mind this holiday season by choosing dining furniture in San Francisco for them!

Dining Sets

In your 20s, you likely had a mismatched set of hand-me-down dining furniture. Although it may not have been the most esthetically pleasing, it worked! There are likely some 20-somethings in your life who could benefit from a fresh dining set. The kitchen area is highly used, and often serves double-duty, especially in smaller spaces. Dining sets are a great gift because they can last for several years through the wear and tear of college, moving apartments, and settling down in a starter home.

Dinettes

If the person you’re thinking of purchasing dining furniture for has a small space or prefers a minimalist style, dinettes are the perfect choice. These sets often come with a small table and two chairs, but other styles include a slightly larger style with four chairs. If this person is single or has a partner or roommate, the smaller set may be ideal. However, if they have small children or enjoy hosting guests, you may want to opt for the four-seat dinette.

Barstools

Many apartments and newer homes these days are built with bar-height counters in the kitchen. These are great for keeping an eye on kids while preparing dinner or interacting with guests over a glass of wine. Regardless of how the person in your life uses the bar counter, barstools make a great addition to the space. Furniture stores in the Bay Area have a wide selection including upholstered seats, metal or wood legs, backless stools, armless stools, and many more!

Pub Tables

Pub tables sit a little higher than the average dining table. They are usually around 42″ high, while standard dining tables sit at 28″ to 30″. Pub tables work well for a casual environment and are a comfortable upgrade for taller people who need more legroom. These styles often serve well as multi-functional pieces of furniture. They make great desks, craft stations, homework areas, and space for board games and puzzles. Depending on the hobbies of the person you are buying for, you may want to also include a smaller gift of craft supplies or games with the pub table.

Surprise Them with Dining Furniture

Of course, it’s also possible that you have no idea what the person’s interior design style preferences are or how they would like to use their new dining set. If this is the case, write them a note explaining that you’ll take them out shopping to find the furniture they like. Then, present the letter in an envelope so they still have something to open. You could also get creative and gift them placemats or a table centerpiece as a teaser to a shopping adventure for dining furniture in San Francisco!

Shop the Best Furniture Stores in the Bay Area

California Dining & Barstools has a wide selection of dining furniture options in all styles and price points. We have two locations in the Bay Area to make shopping more convenient. You can also view some of our products online to get an idea of what you might like to give. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or email your local store! Our Dining Furniture Professionals will be happy to help you make the right selection. 

The Halloween candy is nearly gone and many homes are setting up Christmas lights. But let’s not forget the family feast between these two holidays: Thanksgiving! If you’re looking to host the perfect get-together this year, start by using these tips to set a gorgeous Thanksgiving table.

1. Choose a Color Scheme

Dining sets look more cohesive if you choose a color palette and keep all items within that range. The standard fall colors of red, orange, yellow, and brown are always a great choice. You can choose to get a little outside the box by incorporating darker shades of blue and green as well. Make sure these colors are reflected in your napkins, plates, table linens, and centerpiece for a stunning table setting.

2. Mix Different Textures

Perhaps lots of color isn’t really your thing. Instead, focus on the textures and patterns instead of the color palette. Glass or ceramic plates with metal silverware on a linen or burlap placemat will add enough variety to the table to prevent it from looking flat, boring, and uninspired. You can also choose to mix patterns together. If you want to go this route, use the same pattern mixing rules as you would for clothing. One pattern should be larger than the other, but both should be complementary colors.

3. Match the Table Linens

Whether you choose a table cloth, runner, or both, selecting table linens in the same color and texture family will provide an easy backdrop to showcase your place settings and silverware. A full tablecloth is ideal for scratched or worn tables that you’d rather cover up. Of course, you could also visit California Dining & Barstools to find fresh dining furniture in San Francisco that you’ll love to show off! Then, all you need is a runner down the center. Plaid, gingham, and burlap add a cozy fall vibe to your table. Don’t forget to select placemats in the same color scheme, though you may try different textures to offset them from the table cloth or runner. Cork, linen, or rattan are all great choices.

4. Create the Perfect Centerpiece

A bouquet of fall flowers or a cornucopia of vegetables make for a traditional Thanksgiving table centerpiece. You could also design your own centerpiece using the season’s gourds, berries, twigs, and foliage from your own backyard! Add to the natural look with pumpkins, pinecones, and antlers. Pull it all together with a ribbon or twine snaking through the items or holding them together.

5. Don’t Forget the Serveware

The plates, glasses, and silverware aren’t the only items on your table holding food! The dishes you use to serve your turkey, potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce all inform the look of your Thanksgiving table. Choose colors and textures that complement the other items on the table. When in doubt, stick with neutral colors. This is also the perfect time to bring out your bone china and stoneware. Glazed platters, gravy boats, and ladles give the eye a new experience, while a wooden cheeseboard keeps the table feeling rustic. Of course, you can also dress up simpler serveware with fresh fruits like grapes and pomegranates, as well as a bit of greenery to offset the colors of the food.

6. Incorporate a Kid’s Table

For the little ones at your gathering, dinettes and pub tables are the perfect solution. Although you may choose to use less breakable place settings and serveware, you can still use the same colors and textures as the adult’s table. This helps children feel included in the event, while still giving them their own space. 

Reading to Go Shopping?

If you’re looking to upgrade your dining space this Thanksgiving, head out to one of the best furniture stores in the Bay Area. California Dining & Barstools has a huge selection of dining sets, dinettes, pub tables, and more for any style preference or price point.

Dining sets come in all shapes and sizes to suit a variety of styles and needs. Dinettes are ideal for a single person or couple without children, while barstools work great at kitchen islands and home bars. Pub tables are another option that combine the small size of dinettes with the taller height of barstools. These versatile dining sets can be the perfect choice for many areas of your home.

1. Man Cave

Even adults love having a space that is all their own. Many men (and women!) have a spare room, basement, garage, or outbuilding that’s perfectly designed to their tastes and hobbies. When you want to share a drink or meal, play a game with friends, or work on your arts and crafts projects, a pub table is a great addition to your personalized space.

2. Home Bar

Building a home bar is a great way to enjoy yourself, but without the high prices, loud noise, and insufficient parking of a local bar. Whether your home bar consists of a simple bar cart near a pub table in the corner of your family room, or all-out basement renovation complete with tap handles and a flat screen TV, you can still have a good time on your own terms.

3. Outdoor Patio

Feeling the warm sun on your skin and a light breeze through your hair can be one of the most calming feelings in the world. What better way to do that than by taking a seat on your deck and patio whenever you feel like it. Pub tables and chairs make it easy to bring your morning coffee, afternoon snack, or nighttime reading out into the peace of the outdoors.

4. Sunroom

Sunrooms and three-season porches are a great way to enjoy your space all year long. They keep the bugs, rain, wind, extreme heat, and snow from disturbing your otherwise relaxing Sunday plans. They’re a great spot to catch up with friends, have family get-togethers, and even just relax after a long day. Adding a pub table with matching barstools is a great way to add extra space in the room so you can enjoy it even more.

5. Kitchen Nook

Kitchens are one of the busiest rooms in a home. They have become a more multipurpose space as people are seeking open layouts and want to be able to interact with guests or keep an eye on children while also preparing dinner. Even homes with full dining sets can benefit from a pub table and chairs in the kitchen nook. Children can do homework here, friends can relax with a drink, or you can set up a serving station for your epic feast.

The Best Dining Furniture in San Francisco

California Dining & Barstools in one of the best furniture stores in the Bay Area thanks to our wide selection of full dining sets, dinettes, pub tables, and barstools. Our collections are available at a variety of price points and in many design styles. Visit one of our two locations today to see more of what we have to offer!

Winter is upon us and even though San Francisco isn’t one of the coldest states, we still have our fair share of rainy, gloomy days ahead. Instead of getting down, make the most of them by cooking up a batch of soup or chili, snuggling into a warm blanket, and getting comfy with loved ones right in your own kitchen. Here are some of our favorite ideas for turning your kitchen nook into the coziest space in your home this fall and winter.

1. Change Up the Décor

The kitchen nook can be an easily forgotten place due to its small size. However, even the smallest changes can make the biggest impact. When it comes to the home decor accessories in your nook, change up the color palette to something more autumnal. Burnt orange, sunflower yellow, shades of brown, and forest green all evoke cozy feelings of a walk through the woods crunching on dry leaves. Swap out your curtains, table centerpiece, and art installations for some that are more in season.

2. Add a Pub Table and Barstools

Nothing says fall quite like football. And when you visit a sports bar to watch the game, you most likely end up on barstools seated at pub tables. Bring that festive feeling into your kitchen nook by adding a pub table and barstools that suit your home’s decor. Making the space all your own will give you a nice spot to enjoy a cozy Saturday or Sunday afternoon.

3. Or, Try a Dinette Set

Dinettes are perfect for the kitchen nook because they are meant for a small gathering. For most styles, there is seating for just two. This small setting lets you get close and comfy with someone you love, to share favorite stories and a glass of wine. Bring a small plate of meats and cheeses to the table and you have an instant date night in your very own kitchen!

4. Bring in a Softer Touch

Fall and winter are all about cuddling and staying warm. Don’t let your kitchen nook go unused this season because it’s not inviting! Swap out the chairs in your dining sets for ones that are upholstered or have cloth-covered seats. Add some pillows to a bench seat or at each individual chair. A soft rug will stay warm underfoot, no matter what the weather is doing outside.

Cozy Kitchen Nook & Dining Furniture in San Francisco

Winter doesn’t have to be a dreary time of year. Cozy up your kitchen nook with fresh dining furniture from California Dining and Barstools. Our collection of dining sets, dinettes, pub tables, and barstools is large enough to cover two furniture stores in the Bay Area. Regardless of budget or style, we’re sure to have exactly what you’re looking for. Stop in today or shop online to get an idea of what you’re looking for. Our dining furniture specialists will be happy to help you make the coziest selections for your kitchen nook.

It seems that everyone is on a mission to clean and update their homes over the last 18 months. This has led to a surge of new trends and popular items for home decor. If you’re joining the mission and looking to upgrade your dining furniture, consider these popular barstools and counter stools for your kitchen remodel.

• Metal – A simple metal barstool works with a variety of interior design styles. It is sturdy and durable to stand up to frequent use. They are also flexible enough to be used outdoors with a patio bar.
• Wood – The look of wood brings a calm, cozy feeling to the room. Wood barstools can be used as a background item to shift focus somewhere else, or as a blank slate to let your creativity flourish and turn them into something totally eye-catching.
• Leather – As a material, leather has always evoked a sense of richness with a side of rebel. Up the ante in your dining sets with a leather and metal counter stool.
• Wicker – Often relegated to beach houses and outdoor patios, wicker has become more mainstream. To make this material work indoors, keep it to a minimum. Instead of an entire chair of wicker, try just the seat or back and use a different material for the legs.
• Budget-friendly – When you want to save a buck, diner-style chairs are an excellent option. Also take a look at all wood or metal chairs with simple designs.
• Luxury – Many people desire to have luxurious items in their homes. The finest fabrics and handcrafted details make all the difference. Add a glam, luxury look with a navy blue and gold chair.
• Adjustable – Accommodating different sizes of people can be difficult to do with stationary seats. An adjustable bar stool allows everyone to sit at their most comfortable level, from children, to teens, to adults.
• Arms – A chair with arms can turn simple pub tables into a luxurious experience. They are ideal for getting comfortable and staying awhile over a glass of wine and a great meal with friends.
• Outdoor – The best outdoor barstool will be sturdy, durable, and made from weather-resistant materials. Look for wood and metal but avoid cloth and leather. Better yet look at some dinettes for a perfect set.
• Upholstered – A cloth seat is going to be far more comfortable than other materials, which makes them the perfect pairing for dining sets where you want to stay awhile.

The Best Dining Furniture in San Francisco

Searching through furniture stores in the Bay Area for the perfect dining sets, barstools, and pub tables can almost feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack. However, when you shop with California Dining & Barstools, you get a curated collection of perfect pieces that fit right into your budget. Stop in to one of our two locations to get a hands-on feel for your new pub tables and barstools. You can also shop our inventory online and call your preferred store to learn more and make a purchase.