Choosing tables for your dining space is more than just selecting furniture. It directly impacts the customer experience, the restaurant's atmosphere, space utilization, and even revenue.

Whether you're opening a new restaurant or upgrading/renovating, compare these two types of tables to avoid making the wrong choice: bistro table vs. pub table.

Both are widely used in restaurants, cafes, bars, and commercial dining venues—but which one is right for your business?

This guide details the key differences, usage scenarios, layout tips, and buying advice to help you make the most informed decision.

What Is a Bistro Table?

Bistro tables are compact, typically round, and make excellent use of space.

Bistro table height is similar to a standard dining table, so they are more suitable for dining and can easily create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Typical Features:

• Height similar to a standard dining table (approximately 30 inches)

• Compact table size (suitable for 1-2 people)

• Suitable for indoor and outdoor spaces

• Suitable for stylish or casual dining environments

Common Materials:

Wood/Metal/Rattan/Marble/Weather-resistant coating

Best for:

✔ Cafes and brunch spots

✔ Small restaurants

✔ Outdoor patios and sidewalk seating

✔ Warm, romantic, and relaxed dining atmosphere

What Is a Pub Table?

A pub table, also called a bar table, takes up more space but encourages social interaction, allowing both sitting and standing. It's perfect for social and drinking venues!

Explore More Bar Tables Now

Typical Features:

• Taller than a regular dining table (36-42 inches high)

• Perfect for standing or using with bar stools

• Creates a vibrant, social atmosphere

• Encourages rapid customer flow

Common Materials:

Metal frame/Wood/Industrial finish/Solid wood tabletop

Best For:

✔ Bars and pubs

✔ Beer houses/cocktail lounges

✔ Fast-paced restaurants

✔ High-volume venues

How Does a Table Affect Customer Dwell Time, Food Orders, and Revenue?

After defining two types of tables, you might not fully understand the consequences of making the wrong choice. The right table can double your restaurant's revenue. Why?

If you own a coffee shop and all your tables are high bar tables, your customers will feel uncomfortable after a short while. Ultimately, they'll just leave quickly.

• Low tables like Bistro Tables offer more comfort and are suitable for casual restaurants with higher average spending per customer. Comfortable tables extend customer dwell time, boosting food and beverage sales and increasing the likelihood of repeat visits. It's not about remembering how uncomfortable the last time was.

• High tables like Pub Tables increase turnover, encourage drink orders, and lead to higher revenue, with significant potential for beverage sales. They're perfect for bars and bars! There's no single perfect table, only the tables best suited to your restaurant. Tables aren't a cost; with the right choice, they're a tool for improving your ROI.

So carefully compare these two table types and choose the right table for you!

Bistro Table vs Pub Table: Key Differences

Quickly compare the main differences between the two dining tables to see which one is more suitable for you.

Which Is Better for Your Business？ Bistro Table vs Pub Table 

After understanding and comparing Bistro Tables and Pub Tables in detail, you can find the right tables by considering your store's positioning.

If your restaurant prioritizes comfort, dining experience, and a warm atmosphere, then bistro tables are the best choice.

If you're looking for lively social interaction, high table turnover, and bar-style seating, then bar tables are more suitable.

The right choice depends on your restaurant's style, customer behavior, and spatial layout, not just the design itself.

For many modern restaurants and bars, the most profitable strategy is often a hybrid seating arrangement—using small tables in the dining area and bar-style tables in the social or bar area.

This layout helps meet the needs of different customers, increases seating capacity, and improves overall revenue.

Recommend

• Cafe: Bistro Tables. Enjoy a longer, more comfortable dining experience.

• Bar: Bar Tables. High bar turnover and great atmosphere.

• Bistro Restaurant: Bistro and Bar Tables. Zoning layout increases profits.

• Small Space Shop: Bistro. High seating density.

• Sports/Live Music: Highly interactive bar.

Ready to Choose Your Tables?

Before selecting tables, prioritize functionality. Which one will make your customers feel comfortable? Which one will make your space flow more smoothly? Which one will boost your turnover?

Homeyfad specializes in dining chairs, and we provide commercial-grade bistro and bar tables at bulk prices with fast delivery. Suitable for:

✔ Restaurants ✔ Cafes ✔ Bars ✔ Hotels ✔ Outdoor venues.

Contact us with any questions! Tell us your space style—we'll recommend the best solution!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are bistro tables good for small spaces?

A: Yes. Their compact size is perfect for cafés and small restaurants.

Q: Can pub tables be used outdoors?

A: Yes—if made with outdoor-grade metals and weather-resistant tops.

Q: Which is better for bars?

A: Pub tables. They encourage social energy and quick rotation.

Q: Which is more comfortable for long meals?

A: Bistro tables provide better dining comfort with standard seating height.

Q: Can I mix both table types?

A: Absolutely—many businesses combine them to create seating zones.