When designing your restaurant, carefully considering the seating arrangement is crucial. The table shape and size you choose can significantly impact your restaurant’s capacity, which ultimately affects your sales. At Restaurant Furniture.Net, we are dedicated to helping restaurant owners with any questions regarding the best seating configuration for their establishment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the critical aspects of restaurant tables seating capacity.
Key Considerations for Seating Arrangements
- Table Size and Width: Each seated guest should have a minimum of 24 inches of width for comfort. Additionally, there should be enough space between seats to allow clients to move in and out easily. The type of business you have will also influence the choice of tables. For example, a 30″ x 30″ table is perfect for two people having a full-course meal, whereas the same size can accommodate four people in a café or ice cream parlor setting.
- Table Length: For larger spaces, a 12-foot table is recommended for cafeteria or restaurant seating. Smaller venues, such as banquet halls or institutions, can utilize ten square tables effectively. Each person seated at the edge of the table should have at least 18 inches of space between them and the back of their chair.
Table Shape and Its Importance
- Square Tables: Square tables are the most popular choice, especially for restaurants that cater to smaller groups or need flexibility in seating arrangements. A 700mm x 700mm square table can comfortably seat two people and can be combined with others for larger groups.
- Round Tables: Round tables offer flexibility in café-style settings, allowing seats to be added as needed. Larger circular tables are also a great option for breaking up the uniformity of a seating arrangement or for filling corner spaces.
- Table Bases: Don’t overlook the importance of table bases! The right base can maximize the number of dining areas in your restaurant. Ensure that the bases provide enough support while not taking up excessive space.
How Many Covers Will Fit in Your Restaurant
To determine how many covers (seats) will fit in your restaurant, you can refer to the Metric Handbook, which recommends that each diner requires between 1 and 2 square meters of space, with a minimum width of 580mm. A packed restaurant with small square tables might be at the lower end of this range, while fine-dining establishments with widely spaced tables will be at the higher end.
- Pro Tip: When designing your space, remember that a restaurant chair extends around 450 millimeters from a table. To avoid bumping between customers and staff, leave an additional 450mm behind the chairs. Also, consider how far the chair’s back legs may stretch to ensure a smooth flow in your dining area.
Conclusion
The seating arrangement in your restaurant is more than just a matter of aesthetics; it directly impacts your capacity and sales. By choosing the right table size, shape, and layout, you can optimize your space to create a comfortable and efficient dining experience. Whether you’re starting a new restaurant or revamping an existing one, careful planning of your seating arrangement will save you time and trouble in the long run, ensuring your guests have a pleasant dining experience.