Whether the goal is a complete redesign of a restaurant or a new cafe opening up, the goal is to find the perfect furniture pieces to make a statement while being comfortable and durable.

Restaurant owners will want to make sure they consider the options carefully to make sure they find the perfect pieces to create the look and feel they’re after and to make the space welcoming for everyone. 

Define the Concept and Brand

Take a moment to think about the concept and brand before starting to look through modern restaurant and cafe furniture. Think about the theme and style, the target audience, and the goals for the overall ambience. Is the restaurant going to be modern or vintage? Are patrons mostly families or young professionals? Is the goal to be cozy and relaxed or upscale and elegant? Think carefully, since the furniture should reflect the brand and dining experience. 

Be Aware of Local and Federal Regulations

It is crucial to be aware of all local and federal regulations that may be applicable before purchasing furniture. Furniture should be fire-resistant for safety and should be spaced to make sure people are able to easily exit in case of a fire or other emergency. Additionally, restaurants and cafes should make sure they are ADA-compliant, which includes being aware of the spacing requirements for all fixed furniture. Any issues following local and federal regulations can be expensive to fix, so it’s best to get them right from the start. 

Choose Durable Materials

Restaurants and cafes will want to make sure they choose furniture that includes durable materials. Wood may need to be sealed to help protect it from damage, while metal provides durability already. Fabric should be easy to clean, since there will be spills and stains over time. If the fabric is waterproof or easy to clean, it’s going to be easier to clean up spills as they happen and keep the furniture looking great. 

Match Inside and Outside

If there is outdoor seating, it is a good idea to make sure the indoor and outdoor furniture match so everything looks cohesive. It is recommended to purchase furniture that is waterproof. If there is any fabric on the furniture, make sure it is waterproof fabric to avoid it breaking down over time or starting to grow mold. Additionally, it is a good idea to look for UV-resistant fabric to minimize fading for any furniture that is in the sun. 

Optimize Layout for Efficiency

It is a good idea to consider the layout carefully with respect to the size of the furniture and its location. It is a good idea to have a variety of table sizes to accommodate different party sizes, as well as make sure there is enough spacing between chairs to ensure everyone is comfortable. Consider using booths to maximize wall space and add bar stools near counters for single diners who may not want to sit at a table. 

If you’re working on redesigning your restaurant or preparing to open a new one, choosing the right furniture is crucial. Use the tips here when looking at furniture to choose the right pieces and make sure everything fits well within the restaurant to add as much seating as possible. By taking the time to look for the perfect furniture, it’s possible to make sure the restaurant or cafe looks amazing when it opens.