When it comes to designing an outdoor dining area for your restaurant, one of the most important considerations is choosing the right restaurant chairs. The right seating can significantly enhance your guests’ outdoor dining experience, encouraging longer visits, repeat customers, and positive reviews.
However, the challenges of outdoor dining mean that your chairs must be more than just stylish—they need to be durable, weather-resistant, and comfortable, all while maximizing space and complementing your restaurant’s atmosphere.
In this article, we’ll explore the best restaurant chairs for outdoor dining spaces. We’ll discuss the key factors to consider when selecting outdoor seating, the materials that perform best in outdoor settings, and the different styles of chairs that can enhance your patio, terrace, or garden area. Whether you’re outfitting a cozy café or a large outdoor dining venue, we’ve got you covered.
Why Outdoor Dining Spaces Require Special Restaurant Chairs
Outdoor dining spaces offer a relaxed, open-air environment where guests can enjoy meals in a fresh, natural setting. However, the unique nature of outdoor dining spaces means that certain considerations must be made when choosing restaurant chairs.
- Weather resistance ─ Chairs used outdoors must be able to withstand the elements, including sun, rain, and humidity. Materials that are resistant to fading, rust, and mold are essential for keeping chairs looking great over time.
- Comfort ─ Even though outdoor spaces are often casual, comfort still matters. Guests should be able to sit for extended periods without feeling uncomfortable, especially if you’re running a fine-dining or upscale outdoor restaurant.
- Aesthetic appeal ─ Chairs should complement the overall aesthetic of the outdoor space. Whether your restaurant has a rustic charm or a contemporary flair, the right restaurant chairs can enhance the atmosphere.
- Space efficiency ─ Outdoor spaces can vary in size. Whether you’re outfitting a small bistro patio or a large terrace, choosing chairs that make efficient use of available space will ensure a smooth customer experience.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Restaurant Chairs for Outdoor Spaces
Before we explore the best types of restaurant chairs for outdoor settings, it’s important to keep these key factors in mind:
1. Durability and Weather Resistance
Outdoor restaurant chairs are exposed to harsh conditions, so selecting durable materials is essential. The best outdoor chairs are made from materials that can handle constant exposure to UV rays, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. Here are some durable materials commonly used for outdoor seating:
- Aluminum ─ Aluminum is a popular choice for outdoor restaurant chairs because it’s lightweight, rust-resistant, and highly durable. Its ability to withstand both rain and sun makes it an ideal material for chairs exposed to the elements. Powder-coated aluminum chairs are particularly resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Teak wood ─ Known for its natural beauty and durability, teak is a classic choice for outdoor seating. Teak chairs develop a silver-gray patina over time, which adds to their charm. Its resistance to moisture and rot makes it a great option for outdoor environments.
- Resin wicker ─ Resin wicker chairs offer a stylish and weather-resistant option for outdoor dining spaces. Resin wicker is made from synthetic fibers that mimic the look of traditional wicker but are far more durable and resistant to UV rays and moisture.
- Stainless steel ─ For a modern, sleek look, stainless steel is another excellent choice. It’s highly durable, resistant to rust, and provides a contemporary aesthetic that can work in a wide range of outdoor settings.
- Plastic/polypropylene ─ Plastic chairs are highly durable and come in a wide variety of designs. Many plastic chairs are UV-resistant and lightweight, making them ideal for outdoor spaces that require portability.
2. Comfort for Extended Dining
Outdoor dining often means that guests will linger for longer periods, so comfort is just as important as durability. Look for restaurant chairs that have ergonomic designs and features that encourage relaxation. Consider the following aspects when choosing chairs:
- Cushioned seating ─ While not necessary for all outdoor dining settings, cushioned seating can enhance the comfort of guests in casual or fine-dining restaurants. Chairs with padded cushions offer extra comfort, but be sure to choose weather-resistant cushions that are easily removable and machine washable.
- Backrest and armrests ─ A chair with a comfortable backrest provides the support your guests need while dining. Armrests can add an extra layer of comfort, particularly for guests who may need more stability when getting in and out of their seats. Chairs with ergonomic features can improve overall guest satisfaction.
- Seat shape and depth ─ A chair with a deep seat and proper contouring will keep guests comfortable throughout their meal. Look for designs that provide ample space for sitting without feeling cramped.
3. Style and Aesthetic Compatibility
Outdoor dining spaces are often designed with a specific ambiance or theme in mind. Whether you’re aiming for a tropical resort feel, a modern café look, or a rustic outdoor patio, the restaurant chairs you choose should align with your vision. Here are a few design styles to consider:
- Modern/minimalist ─ Sleek, metal chairs with clean lines and a minimalist design are perfect for modern outdoor settings. Aluminum, stainless steel, and plastic chairs with a contemporary touch can elevate a trendy outdoor dining space.
- Rustic/traditional ─ If your restaurant has a country, garden, or vintage theme, wooden chairs or wicker chairs are a fantastic option. Teak wood, in particular, offers a timeless look that pairs beautifully with greenery and floral settings.
- Tropical/beachy ─ For tropical or seaside-themed outdoor spaces, look for chairs made from materials that evoke a casual, relaxed vibe. Resin wicker or teak chairs, with their natural finishes, are great choices for coastal dining spaces.
- Industrial/urban ─ For urban-style outdoor dining, opt for metal chairs with industrial designs. These chairs are often paired with other raw materials like concrete or exposed brick, giving your space an edgy, modern feel.
4. Maintenance and Cleaning
Maintenance is a crucial consideration when selecting restaurant chairs for outdoor use. Chairs exposed to the elements will require regular cleaning and care to keep them looking their best.
- Easy-to-clean materials ─ Materials like resin, plastic, and metal are easy to wipe down and maintain, making them ideal for outdoor spaces where cleaning needs to be quick and efficient.
- Removable cushions ─ If you choose chairs with cushions, ensure that the cushions are removable and easy to clean. Sunbrella fabric, which is resistant to mildew, fading, and stains, is a popular choice for outdoor cushions.
- Covering and storing ─ For chairs made from wood or upholstered materials, investing in weatherproof covers for when the restaurant is closed can help prolong their lifespan. During the off-season, storing chairs in a dry location can protect them from extreme weather.
5. Space Efficiency
The layout of your outdoor dining space is just as important as the chairs you choose. Chairs that are too large or too bulky can make a space feel cramped, whereas smaller chairs may not provide enough comfort. Consider these space-saving options:
- Stackable chairs ─ Stackable chairs are an excellent option for restaurants that need to quickly adjust the layout or store chairs during bad weather. They can be neatly stacked and tucked away when not in use.
- Slim-line chairs ─ These chairs are designed with a narrow profile, making them perfect for patios or outdoor spaces that require efficient use of space without sacrificing comfort.
- Folding chairs ─ For maximum flexibility, folding chairs are a great space-saving solution. These chairs can be set up and packed away easily, allowing you to adjust the seating arrangement according to customer demand.
Best Restaurant Chairs for Outdoor Dining Spaces
Here are some of the best restaurant chairs for outdoor spaces that combine durability, comfort, and style:
- Teak wood dining chairs ─ Timeless and durable, teak wood chairs are perfect for upscale outdoor restaurants. Their weather-resistant nature makes them ideal for long-lasting outdoor use.
- Aluminum bistro chairs ─ Lightweight and stackable, aluminum bistro chairs are a classic choice for casual outdoor dining. Their sleek design works well in a variety of restaurant settings.
- Resin wicker chairs ─ These chairs provide a cozy, inviting look while being resistant to outdoor elements like UV rays and moisture. Ideal for garden cafés or rustic patio dining.
- Stainless steel side chairs ─ For a modern, industrial vibe, stainless steel side chairs are a durable and stylish choice. Their clean lines and low-maintenance design make them great for trendy outdoor settings.
- Polypropylene outdoor chairs ─ Budget-friendly and practical, polypropylene chairs are resistant to UV rays, water, and dirt, making them an excellent choice for high-traffic outdoor spaces.
Conclusion
Choosing the right restaurant chairs for your outdoor dining space is crucial for creating a comfortable, stylish, and functional environment for your guests. Durability, comfort, and aesthetic appeal should all be top considerations when selecting chairs that can withstand the elements while offering a pleasant dining experience.
By investing in high-quality outdoor seating, you’ll create an inviting space that attracts customers and encourages them to linger longer.
