Restaurant Patio Furniture

Tips for Choosing the Right Outdoor Furniture for Your Location

1. Consider Your Space

One of the most essential factors to consider when choosing patio furniture is the size and type of space available in your restaurant exterior. The first thing to do is to measure the available space in your outdoor area to determine how many tables and chairs will fit, while still adhering to the same spacing standards and ADA requirements that govern spacing in your interior. If the outdoor space is small, or your patio is only open seasonally, spatial optimization is key, and you would want to consider stackable seating or tables that fold, allowing for accommodation for fluctuating numbers of guests and ease of storage in the off season.

2. Patio Furniture Materials

Commercial patio furniture comes in an array of styles and materials and care must be taken when ordering to ensure the furniture is not only comfortable, but matches your overall restaurant design and individual specific needs. Below is a breakdown of materials used in making commercial furniture for outdoor use.

• Synthetic Teak - Used in patio chairs, bar stools, and tables, synthetic teak mimics the look of real teak wood while remaining weather and waterproof. Durable and aesthetically pleasing, it is a popular choice for outdoor furniture.
• Aluminum - Aluminum is used in outdoor chairs, bar stools, tables, and table bases, and is a versatile and rust proof option for outdoor use. It is lightweight and easy to move around, making rearranging furniture for events or different sized groups a breeze. It requires minimal maintenance, making it a convenient choice for busy restaurant owners.
• Stainless Steel - Stainless steel outdoor furniture is very durable and heavy-duty, able to withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions. It provides a sense of stability and sturdiness, giving patrons a feeling of security while dining outdoors. It can be powder coated in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing for customization to match the restaurant's aesthetic.
• Resin - Resin patio furniture is lightweight and easy to move around, making it convenient for rearranging or cleaning. It is resistant to rust, corrosion, and fading, making it a durable and low-maintenance option for outdoor use. It is available in a variety of styles and colors, providing options to match any restaurant's décor theme. As well, it is easy to clean and maintain, saving time and effort for restaurant staff.
• Faux Wicker and Rattan - Popular in venues aiming for a tropical and exotic look, faux wicker and rattan are made to look like the real thing without the needed upkeep. Aesthetically pleasing, faux wicker and rattan patio furniture have a natural and attractive appearance, which can enhance the overall look and feel of a restaurant's outdoor dining space. They are designed to be weather-resistant, making them suitable for outdoor use in various climates.
• Natural Wood - The wood used outdoor furniture is generally teak or bamboo. Natural wood patio furniture adds a warm, organic feel to outdoor dining areas, enhancing the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Natural wood can be easily customized to fit different restaurant styles and themes, allowing for a wide range of design choices. However, wood patio furniture requires regular maintenance to prevent weathering, such as sealing, staining, or re-painting, which can add to the overall cost of ownership. As well, natural wood is more vulnerable to scratches, dents, and wear and tear compared to other materials like metal or plastic.

3. Choose a Style That Works for You

Do you want your outdoor area to be a spacious patio dining experience for customers, or is your space intended to be used in a café setting with smaller tables and a few patio chairs? Are you furnishing a cement patio, garden, or wood deck? Different types of functions require different type of outdoor furniture. For a luxurious outdoor dining experience, you may want to consider patio arm chairs or chairs with seat cushions. You may even want to consider outdoor booths. Don’t forget that customers will want the same level of comfort in their outdoor seating as they expect from an indoor dining experience. If you wish for your patrons to take their time with their meal, you must provide furniture that fosters relaxation.

For a café or casual outdoor experience, simple 2-4 person tables and functional metal or resin chairs would be appropriate, as there is no expectation of prolonged seating, and therefore less emphasis is put on luxury. The furniture should be comfortable and practical, but not on the same level as a high-end outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Patio Furniture Get Hot?

Most all patio furniture gets hot when exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time. Metal furniture is particularly susceptible, while synthetic teak and rattan or wicker will not hold as much heat and will cool down more rapidly. There are, however, ways to mitigate this problem. The first is to use our range of commercial patio umbrellas to protect both patrons and furniture from the direct sun. Another method is to use seat cushions, especially with metal chairs and bar stools.

What Kind of Maintenance is Needed for Patio Furniture?

Most of our available outdoor furniture is low maintenance by design, although periodic cleaning is recommended for hygiene and continued visual appeal. Food and spilled drinks are easily wiped up from our waterproof outdoor line, and dust and dirt accumulation can be rinsed off with a garden hose. Though designed to handle the elements, some of our furniture will eventually fade over time. It is recommended to use covers when not in use, or move the furniture during the off-season or during inclement weather conditions.

We hope to have helped guide you to finding the best patio furniture for your venue. If you still have questions, please contact our team of industry professionals, who are standing by to assist you in developing a functional and beautiful outdoor space. Call today and get started on your journey to the perfect outdoor experience for your customers.