Patio Dining Sets

A patio dining set looks simple until the table is too big for the paving or the chairs will not tuck in. Start with how many people you usually feed and how much floor you have, then match a set to both. This page walks through the main kinds of set so you can pick a size, a shape and a style that fit.

Bistro sets for two

A small round table with two chairs is the easy answer for a narrow patio, a balcony or a corner by the kitchen door. A three foot round table leaves room to walk around it, and the round shape has no corners to catch on. It suits couples, morning coffee and the occasional light supper. Note that the umbrella is sold separately.

Four-seat round and square sets

This is the family-sized set, and most patios will take one. A round trestle table, around 47 inches or 4 feet across, lets everyone see each other and makes conversation easy. A square table of 47 inches suits a spot against a wall or a rail, where a round one would waste the corners. Both come with four chairs. Check which sets need cushions bought separately, because that adds to the total.

Folding sets for small or shared spaces

If your porch is tight, or you want to move the table to follow the sun, a folding set is worth a look. The travel table folds to half its size, so it can be put away for the winter. A set with chairs included keeps everything matched. A folding table on its own suits someone who already owns chairs.

Fixed patio tables

A solid table with a lower shelf is handy when the table has to do a lot: plates above, baskets and bottles below. It is sold on its own, so you choose the chairs. That helps if you want to mix and match, or already have seating you like.

Chairs, one style at a time

The chair decides how long people stay at the table. A highback chair offers lower lumbar support, which suits long dinners. The English garden chair is a classic shape that fits most gardens. Treated pine chairs, such as the fanback, curveback and crossback, cost less and come with deep seats or contoured backs. The curveback has a higher seat than a traditional chair, which some people find easier for dining. The crossback with a heart adds a scroll detail.

The fanback and crossback styles are the deep-seated, contoured options, good if you like to sit back and linger.

A garden bench set

Not every patio needs a dining table. The English garden collection pairs a 5 foot bench and a chair with an end table. It suits a quiet corner for two, where drinks matter more than a full meal.

How to choose

• Count your usual guests, not your biggest party. Buy for the everyday number.
• Measure the patio, then leave space behind each chair so people can pull out and sit down.
• Pick the table shape to match the space: round for open areas, square for walls and corners.
• Check what is included. Cushions and umbrellas are sold separately on some sets.
• Think about storage. If you want to put it away for winter, choose a folding set.
• Compare wood and finish. Red cedar and treated pine are both on offer, and the descriptions differ, so read them.

Questions people ask

How many chairs fit a 47 inch table?

The sets here pair it with four chairs. For more guests, you would need a larger table.

Can I buy a table and chairs separately?

Yes. Tables and chairs are listed on their own, so you can mix them. Sets usually come with a discount over buying the pieces apart.

Do the sets include cushions?

Not always. Some are listed as cushions sold separately, so check before you order.

What suits a very small patio?

A bistro set or a folding table and chairs set. Both take little room and can be moved.