Pub and Bistro Tables

Having a bar in your home is one of life’s luxuries — the perfect place for pulling up a stool and unwinding after a long day. Not just any old table will do for this special place though. As you indulge in a few adult beverages with your friends, you should feel like you are actually at the pub by gathering around a pub table. A pub or bar table blurs the lines between sitting and standing, creating that casual, let-loose atmosphere synonymous with pubs. If you prefer something more intimate and relaxing, a bistro table might be more your style. Either way, if your life’s dream is to add an in-home bar to your living space, check out a few tips before you break out the glasses:

How tall should my bar table be?

Most bars measure 40 to 42 inches in height, so for the most authentic experience, look for a pub or bar height table and double check that the dimensions are in that ballpark. Anything much shorter or taller will feel awkward to stand at or rest your arms on. Determining the proper width for bar tables is a little trickier; your best bet is to measure the space where you plan to set up your bar area and consider how many people will be gathered around it most often. Don’t forget to add in space for your bar stools and room for your guests to maneuver comfortably. If you’re lucky enough to have a larger space, you might opt to buy a bar table and chairs with an expandable leaf to accommodate larger parties when necessary.

Where should I put my new pub table?

High top tables will function well in quite a few places, depending on the layout of your home. To figure out some of the ideal spots, start by considering where you’re most comfortable hosting guests. This could be in or right next to your kitchen, but other locations, like the living room, game room, library or even home office, can be optimized for the ultimate social gathering. Wherever you decide is the optimal placement for your pub table, be sure it matches the style of your home and the room you’re adding it to. If your in-home pub is located in a more casual room with cushy chairs or sofas, find adjustable pub tables that convert from lower cocktail tables to a full pub-height bar top tables, and place them conveniently next to the seating.

What is a bistro table, and where can I use it?

Bistro tables are modeled after the small cafe tables you might find dotting the sidewalk next to a cozy French bistro. These quaint, intimate tables resemble the width and shape of pub tables, but come in standard heights for a more relaxed and informal feel. Instead of pulling up a tall stool or standing, you can take a seat and enjoy your beverage and maybe a quick bite, as well as a nice conversation with a friend. They can also provide the perfect seating arrangement for a tight breakfast nook or eat-in kitchen.