How To Choose An Outdoor Bistro Table

Bistro tables are traditionally small, round tables. This adds to the feeling of a French "cafe-style" in your space.

Where regular outdoor dining tables are usually around 28 to 30 inches high, bistro tables should be around 18 to 26 inches high to achieve the look. If you are matching your bistro table with a lounge chair instead of dining chairs, you may want something slightly shorter to reach it comfortably.

Bistro tables can be square, but this will look more like a side table than a table used for relaxing with drinks in the back garden. For round bistro tables, you can expect to find them anywhere from 24 to 36 inches in diameter.

Bistro tables are perfect for small spaces such as apartment balconies. Their size means you can have somewhere to socialize without overcrowding the space. Although most bistro tables are small enough already, you could also consider choosing a table and chairs that fold away. This will help you maximize your patio space even more.

Bistro tables are fantastic for creating a unique space in your backyard. However, because they are outdoors they need to be made from the right materials to last.

Traditional bistro tables are made from wrought iron. You may have seen them hidden in the back corner of your grandparents' garden - often painted white with artistic patterns. You might have noticed that these wrought iron table sets tend to rust if they are not properly maintained.

If you want to leave the table and chairs out in the elements, you should opt for metal furniture that is plated or painted to protect it from rust.

Wicker bistro tables are a popular choice because of their neutral colors and relaxed style.

No matter what material you choose for your bistro table, make sure that it is lightweight. Bistro tables are small and perfect for moving around to wherever you need them. This means that you need to be able to lift them easily!

Another consideration is where the table will be located. If it is near a pool area, you need to stay away from untreated wood or traditional wrought iron as these will quickly deteriorate.

Bistro tables on an apartment balcony will generally be exposed to city pollution. This means you want to choose something that you can easily clean such as painted metal or resin wicker.

There are a few classic bistro table styles that will suit most styles. Almost all of them will add distinct European flavors to your outdoor lifestyle.

The most common choice is white wrought iron bistro tables. These are perfect in a green garden setting and will create an "English flower garden" atmosphere.

Mosaic bistro tables with metal frames are another popular style. Mosaic table tops nod to the traditional Mediterranean designs and complement warm patio colors and brick beautifully.

Metal chairs with delicate floral decals will feel the most like a European cafe. Match these with comfortable cushions and a shaded patio to instantly transport yourself to an outdoor cafe somewhere in France.

For a more robust style bistro table, a combination of wicker and glass is a classic option. Mixing materials adds interest to your outdoor furniture, and a glass tabletop will provide more stability while keeping the warmth of the wicker style.

One problem with bistro tables and chairs is that they can be hard and uncomfortable.

This is difficult to avoid as they are made to stay outdoors. That means you can't get comfortable upholstered dining chairs to go with your tiny table!

There are a few things you can do to make your bistro chairs more comfortable regardless of the weather.

Firstly, you can keep an outdoor storage box full of cushions and blankets. This box can serve as an extra surface and means you have comfortable seats (and blankets for when it gets colder in the evening!).

Secondly, choose a table that can hold an umbrella. Shelter from the sun means you can get more use out of your bistro table throughout the year.

If you would like a bistro dining set that is relatively comfortable and weather-resistant, a resin wicker set with water-resistant upholstery will be your best option.