It can be difficult to know which table top will be right for your restaurant. There are many choices out there and several important factors to consider when shopping for table tops. These factors may include price, style, the type of restaurant or venue, quality and durability and size.
There are many different surfaces to choose from. One of the main factors in choosing the type of surface should be what kind of restaurant you have and what the tops will be used for. If you have an upscale restaurant or bistro, you will want to impress your guests with high quality wood furniture. A solid wood table top adds prestige to a restaurant and shows you are committed to high quality and good taste. Solid wood tops are usually made from maple wood. It is best to choose a table top that is certified by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) which ensures that wood products with its certification comes from forests that are responsibly and sustainably managed.
Solid wood table tops come in different finishes that can match the chairs or the restaurant interior’s décor. They also require proper maintenance, so it is important to buy one that is water and stain resistant and has several coats of finish. Even with a good finish, wood tops are still susceptible to stains, burns and scratches and tend to be at the high end of the price spectrum.
If you are on a tighter budget and do not want to pay a premium for solid wood, a veneer table top is also a good option to consider. Veneer table top offers the same benefits as solid wood and if it is well made, it can be very difficult to tell the difference between a solid wood and a veneer table top. Veneer tops are also easier to maintain and tend to be more stain resistant than solid ones. Laminate table tops, which are similar to veneer are also a good option and are priced more affordably.
Granite table tops are also an excellent choice for upscale restaurants and bars. Granite has a distinct premium look and fits well with modern or conservative décor. The surface is very durable and resistant to scratches, stains, water and burn damage. Granite table tops can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth. The downside about granite table tops is that solid granite is heavy and can be difficult to move. It can also be expensive. Some retailers, Restaurant Furniture among those, offer Economy Granite Table Tops with a 1″ plywood core, complete with epoxy and fiberglass backing. The Economy Granite Table Tops are considerably more affordable.
If you have a quick service or fast casual restaurant, a reversible table top is a good choice. Reversible tops have similar aesthetics to other wood tables and are made of particle board with a wood veneer surface. They are practical because they are very affordable and easy to maintain. All that is required to clean it is a damp cloth. Reversible table tops will often have a different finish on the other side giving your more flexibility.
Another good option for quick service and fast casual restaurants are resin table tops. These are perfect for restaurants, bars, hotels or lounges. The surface is water and scratch resistant and will not stain, making it ideal for harsh conditions. You will not have to worry about burn stains from putting hot dishes on it. The resin surface has a glossy look and comes in different wood grain finishes. They are also affordable and can be used indoors or outdoors.
If you have patio seating there are several options available. Stainless steel is water resistant and the surface will not fade in the sun. Steel table tops are also stain resistant and will not burn. These table tops go nicely with steel or aluminum chairs. They are good for all kinds of outdoor weather but can get very hot in direct sun, especially in the summer. Netted steel tops usually come with the base attached and have a hole in the center for an umbrella which is perfect for un-shaded patios.
Other good outdoor table tops are the Werzalit ones which are made of a high condensed core material. The form-pressed construction offers the highest stability while automatically making it moisture resistant. They are also water and UV resistant, making them ideal for outdoor use. The finishes come in many options, including faux wood finishes. PlasTeak, a new, highly durable synthetic material is also good for patio use. The material is strong and able to withstand the elements and heavy commercial use and the finish looks just like teak.
It is important to choose the correct size table top. For coffee tables, the height should be anything under 26”. Dining height is 30” for formal or casual meals. Poseur height for bars or tall tables should be around 42”. Choosing the right shape is also important. If you have limited space, round table tops are a good choice. If you want more flexibility and the ability to make an extended table for larger seating than square table tops are a smart option.
Carefully consider your options before buying your table tops. Purchasing online can save you a lot of money as opposed to buying from a store. If you are not sure which table top is right for you, contact a seating expert.