When it comes to outdoor dining, the right table and chairs can completely transform a patio or backyard. It’s not just about having a place to eat—it’s about setting the tone for how you enjoy the space. Whether laid-back weekend brunches, sunset dinners with friends, or big family BBQs, the dining set often becomes the centerpiece of outdoor living.
Here are 10 different outdoor dining set ideas to explore. Each has its personality and standout features, along with tips on which design styles it complements best.
Rectangular Outdoor Dining Set
Notable Feature: Spacious and versatile
A classic rectangular table is always a solid choice. It’s perfect for hosting larger groups, usually easily seating six to ten people. There’s ample space for platters, drinks, and decorative touches, making it incredibly versatile. Popular materials include teak, acacia, and powder-coated aluminum, all of which offer durability and style.
Works Best With: Transitional, Modern Farmhouse, and Coastal
A thick wood top with chunky legs screams farmhouse, while a sleek aluminum frame leans more transitional. For coastal style, go with lighter woods or weathered finishes and mix in some blue-and-white striped cushions.
PHI VILLA 7 PCS Acacia Wood Outdoor Dining Set for 6 – amazon.com
Round Outdoor Dining Set
Notable Feature: Intimate and perfect for conversation
Round tables create a cozy, inclusive atmosphere where everyone can easily chat. They’re great for smaller patios and typically seat four to six people. Bonus: no awkward corners for people to navigate around!
Works Best With: Boho, Scandinavian, and Coastal
Try a teak round table with woven chairs for a boho look. For Scandinavian simplicity, opt for pale wood with clean lines. Coastal spaces love round tables with light finishes paired with nautical accents.
Toretto Outdoor Dining Table and 4 Chairs – ashleyfurniture.com
Square Outdoor Dining Set
Notable Feature: Compact and balanced
Square tables are great for smaller outdoor areas or balconies with tight space, but style can’t be compromised. They comfortably seat four and offer a neat, symmetrical aesthetic.
Works Best With: Urban Modern, Contemporary, and Minimalist
Concrete or powder-coated metal square tables bring a cool urban edge. Stick with simple shapes and a neutral color palette to keep things sleek and modern.
Style Selections Ashton 5 -Piece Black Patio Dining Set Steel Square Table with 4 Stationary Chairs – lowes.com
Glass-Top Outdoor Dining Set
Notable Feature: Light, airy, and modern
Glass-top tables give off a clean and sophisticated vibe. They reflect light, making them great for brightening up smaller patios or balconies. Make sure it’s tempered glass for safety and durability!
Works Best With: Contemporary, Modern, and Minimalist
Pair a glass-top table with slim metal chairs for a polished, contemporary look. Perfect for clients who love a clutter-free aesthetic and sharp lines.
Hanover Lavallette 7-Piece Patio Dining Set – amazon.com
Farmhouse Outdoor Dining Set
Notable Feature: Rustic charm with plenty of warmth
Farmhouse outdoor dining sets bring that welcoming, casual vibe people love. Think chunky wood tables, often with a distressed or weathered finish, paired with cross-back chairs or benches. They feel solid, timeless, and perfect for big family meals.
Works Best With: Modern Farmhouse, Rustic, and Transitional
A reclaimed wood finish and X-style legs scream rustic farmhouse. Pair with galvanized metal chairs for a traditional farmhouse look, or keep it transitional with upholstered seating and soft, neutral tones. Bonus points if there’s a string of café lights overhead and a few potted herbs on the table!
Cassia Dark Brown 7-Piece Acacia Wood Rectangular Table Patio Outdoor Dining Set – homedepot.com
Concrete Outdoor Dining Set
Notable Feature: Bold, sculptural, and seriously durable
Concrete tables are modern and make a statement. They’re super weather-resistant and practically indestructible, though they can be heavy (so maybe not ideal for clients who like to rearrange their patio layout regularly!).
Works Best With: Industrial, Minimalist, and Organic Modern
Perfect in an industrial space with black metal chairs, or soften the look with warm woods and linen cushions for an organic modern feel.
Delmar Light Grey and Black 5-Piece Stone and Metal Round Outdoor Patio Dining Set with Beige Cushions – homedepot.com
Wicker Outdoor Dining Set (Resin or Natural)
Notable Feature: Relaxed, casual, and textural
Wicker adds instant charm to an outdoor dining space. Modern resin wicker versions are low-maintenance and hold up beautifully to weather, while natural wicker has that artisan, handmade feel (though it requires a little more care).
Works Best With: Coastal, Boho, and Traditional
Resin wicker in driftwood tones is perfect for a coastal setting. Go boho with natural wicker and mix in macramé accents. Or keep it classic with deep brown wicker and cream-colored cushions for a more traditional feel.
AERIN East Hampton Dining Table & Dining Chairs – williams-sonoma.com
Extendable Outdoor Dining Set
Notable Feature: Flexible seating for any occasion
These tables are a game-changer for anyone who loves to entertain. They stay compact for everyday meals but easily expand when extra guests arrive. Most extendable designs are so well-crafted that you’d hardly notice they expand at all—no awkward seams or bulky mechanisms in sight.
Works Best With: Transitional, Farmhouse, and Traditional
Look for extendable tables in weathered teak, eucalyptus or acacia wood for a farmhouse vibe. Opt for a streamlined version in neutral tones for transitional spaces. Perfect for clients who go from family dinners to big parties with ease.
AERIN East Hampton Dining Table & Dining Chairs – williams-sonoma.com
Aluminum Outdoor Dining Set
Notable Feature: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and easy to maintain
Aluminum is a great go-to for outdoor furniture. It doesn’t rust, it’s lightweight, and it requires almost no maintenance. Many sets feature clean lines and neutral colors, which makes them super versatile.
Works Best With: Contemporary, Mid-Century Modern, and Industrial
Go with a sleek powder-coated finish and tapered legs for a mid-century modern vibe. For industrial, look for darker frames and add metal or wood chairs with a raw finish.
Brown 7-Piece Cast Aluminum Patio Outdoor Dining Set with Round Table and Arm Chairs with Beige Cushion – homedepot.com
Picnic-Style Outdoor Dining Set
Notable Feature: Casual, family-friendly, and nostalgic
Picnic tables are making a comeback in outdoor furniture design! The newer versions are way more stylish—think sleek wood tops with integrated benches and modern lines. They’re perfect for family gatherings and casual dining.
Works Best With: Rustic, Modern Farmhouse, and Coastal
Pair natural wood finishes with colorful seat cushions for a rustic or farmhouse space. Consider lighter wood stains and white accents in coastal settings to keep it fresh and beachy.
Safavieh Marina 3-Piece Outdoor Set – bloomingdales.com
Quick Tips to Help Your Client Choose the Right Set
Measure First! Ensure enough room for the table and space for chairs to pull out comfortably. Rule of thumb: leave at least three feet of clearance around the table.
Think About Weather: If the client’s space gets lots of sun, rain, or even salt air, steer them toward materials like teak, aluminum, resin wicker, and concrete that can withstand the elements.
Maintenance Level: Some materials (teak, concrete) require seasonal upkeep, while others (aluminum, resin wicker) are set-it-and-forget-it.
Comfort is Key: Cushions make all the difference! For hassle-free lounging, we recommend weather-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella and quick-dry foam.
Stick with the Home’s Vibe: If the client’s interior is modern, keep the outdoor space cohesive with clean lines and neutral colors. If it’s more rustic or farmhouse inside, carry that warmth outdoors with wood finishes and cozy textiles.
Create the Ultimate Outdoor Dining Experience
Choosing an outdoor dining set is about more than just seating—it sets the mood for the entire space. Whether your client dreams of long summer lunches with family or wine-fueled dinner parties with friends, there’s a set here that can bring that vision to life.
FAQs
What materials are best for outdoor dining sets?
- Durable materials like teak, aluminum, resin wicker, and concrete are ideal for outdoor dining sets. They resist weather damage and require minimal maintenance.
How do I choose the right size outdoor dining table for my space?
- Measure your patio area first. Leave at least 3 feet of clearance around the table so chairs can be pulled out comfortably without feeling cramped.
Are extendable outdoor dining tables a good option?
- Yes! Extendable tables offer flexible seating for both small family dinners and larger gatherings. They’re perfect if you frequently entertain guests.
What outdoor dining set style works best for a coastal theme?
- Coastal spaces pair beautifully with light woods, weathered finishes, and materials like resin wicker. Add blue-and-white cushions or nautical accents for a beachy vibe.
How can I protect my outdoor dining set from the elements?
- Use weather-resistant covers when not in use, and choose furniture made from rust-resistant or UV-protected materials. Regularly clean and maintain wood or metal finishes.
The Curated Showhouse
Our content is written by our team of experienced interior design experts.
