Guides

Bistro Set Sizes Explained: Table Heights, Footprints and What Fits

· 3 min read

3-Piece Rattan Bistro Set with Glass Table

A bistro set is a small table and two chairs. That's the whole idea, and it's why bistro sets are the most popular furniture for balconies and small patios. But "bistro set" covers everything from a knee-high coffee table to a bar-height table you stand at. Height and footprint matter more than style when space is tight.

The three table heights

These are typical ranges used across furniture makers. Always check the exact numbers on the product page.

Height Table top from the floor Best for
Coffee or lounge About 15 to 20 in Low chairs, drinks and a book, a relaxed corner
Dining (standard) About 28 to 30 in Eating a full meal, working on a laptop
Counter or bar About 34 to 42 in Seeing over a solid balcony wall, a cafe feel, standing guests

Which height fits your balcony

  • Solid wall or glass panel railing about 40 inches high? At a standard table you'll be looking at the wall. A bar-height set puts your eyes above it. Our bar-height balcony bistro set has a 38 inch high table and tall stools for exactly this.
  • Open railing with a view through it? Any height works. Pick based on how you'll use it.
  • Mostly coffee and reading? A low set feels roomier because nothing blocks the sightline. The rattan bistro set pairs two cushioned chairs with an 18 inch round side table.

Footprint vs use zone

The footprint is the space the furniture covers. The use zone is the space you need to actually sit at it: chairs pulled back, legs stretched, a path past it. On a small balcony the use zone is the number that decides whether it fits.

We list the use zone on every product. A few examples from the shop:

  • Bar-height balcony bistro set: about 5 × 4 ft
  • Rattan bistro set with glass table: about 6 × 4 ft
  • Wood rocking chair set with folding table: about 6.5 × 5 ft (rockers need room to rock)

If you haven't measured yet, start with our guide to measuring a balcony for furniture.

Round or square tables

  • Round tables have no corners to bump into and are easier to walk around in a tight space.
  • Square tables push flush against a wall or railing, which can free up a walkway.

Materials at a glance

  • Powder-coated steel: sturdy and affordable. Touch up chips to stop rust.
  • All-weather resin wicker: handles sun and rain. Bring cushions in when it rains.
  • Solid wood: warm and heavy. Oil it each season and keep the feet out of standing water.

More detail is in our outdoor furniture materials guide.

A quick checklist before you buy

  • Does the use zone fit, with the door still opening?
  • Can you see over the railing from the seat height?
  • Will the chairs stack or fold if you need the space back?
  • Do the cushions have somewhere dry to go?
Shop this guide

Outdoor Bistro Sets

See all 6 →