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An outdoor dining set is the perfect centerpiece for summer barbecues on the lawn, morning coffee on the patio, or balmy dinner parties by the pool. A comfortable and stylish outdoor dining furniture set upgrades an outdoor space into a cozy area or an entertaining oasis.
Since many outdoor dining sets come with hefty price tags, pick a set that provides style, comfort, durability, and easy maintenance. To gather some expert info, we interviewed Rafi Friedman, CEO of Coastal Luxury Outdoors based in Jacksonville, Florida, which specializes in pools and outdoor living areas. Keep reading to discover the features to look for in an outdoor seating set and peruse some of the best outdoor dining sets to complement your space.
- BEST OVERALL MODERN: AllModern Black Farrah 8-Person Outdoor Dining Set
- BEST OVERALL CONTEMPORARY: AllModern Joel 6-Person Long Dining Set
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Christopher Knight Home Hallandale in Hammered Bronze
- BEST RUSTIC: Walker Edison 6-Piece Modern Patio Dining Set
- BEST METAL: Christopher Knight Home Hallandale in Black Sand
- BEST WICKER: Wisteria Lane 7-Piece Outdoor Dining Table & Ottoman
- BEST EXTENSION: Walker Edison 6-Piece Classic Outdoor Dining Set
- BEST BISTRO SET: Best Choice Products 3-Piece Patio Bistro Set
- BEST BAR HEIGHT: Wade Logan Weisser 6 -Person Outdoor Dining Set
- ALSO CONSIDER: Devoko 9-Piece Patio Dining Set
How We Chose the Best Outdoor Dining Sets
A comfortable and stylish outdoor dining set upgrades an outdoor space and turns it into an oasis for relaxing and entertaining. Since many outdoor dining sets are quite expensive, it’s important to find a comfortable, sturdy, low-maintenance set that suits your needs and style.
We researched the most sought-after outdoor patio dining sets in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are easy to assemble and come in weather-resistant quality materials with plenty of seating. These models come in wicker, galvanized steel, steel, acacia wood, cast aluminum, and glass constructions. While most of these patio dining sets offer all-weather resistance, the wood options require a lot more maintenance and offer limited durability in all-weather conditions.
Our picks accommodate two to eight people. Select sets come with seat cushions with machine-washable covers, comfortable armrests and backrests, footrests, bottle openers, and nonslip feet. We also chose sets that come in multiple colorways and size options to match a variety of outdoor spaces.
Our Top Picks
Dining alfresco is one of life’s simple pleasures, and the right dining set makes the experience even more pleasant. The best outdoor dining sets are comfortable, durable, and stylish. Keep reading to explore some of the best outdoor patio dining sets for upgrading your outdoor living space.
Best Overall Modern
AllModern Black Farrah 8-Person Outdoor Dining Set
Product Specs
- Tabletop: Polypropylene resin
- Frame: Polypropylene resin and plastic
- Chairs: Polypropylene resin and plastic
- Cushions included: No
- Seating capacity: 8
Pros
- The sleek, simple table design is extendable and comes with 8 outdoor dining chairs
- Easy to clean; manufacturer states that this option can simply be hosed down
- Construction is weather-resistant, water-resistant, ultraviolet (UV)-resistant, and rust-resistant
- Each chair has a 300-pound weight capacity
Cons
- Requires some assembly; the table weighs over 100 pounds and may be tricky to maneuver
- The manufacturer does not list the exact dimensions of the table’s extension
- Pricey compared to other options currently available
Modern outdoor spaces need a sleek, practical dining set, and this one from AllModern fits the bill. The eight-person dining set offers a simple design peppered with modern details.
The long, rectangular plastic table features lines on the surface to create the appearance of slats. Square chunky legs enhance the modern look. Eight included chairs have perforated bucket seats and slightly flared legs, which allows for quick drying by the pool or after a storm. A leaf in the extendable table provides more room when needed.
Made from polypropylene resin and plastic, these easy-to-clean pieces resist weather, water, and UV rays. Available in several neutral colorways, the set fits many design aesthetics.
Get the AllModern Farrah outdoor dining set at AllModern.
Best Overall Contemporary
AllModern Joel 6-Person Long Dining Set
Product Specs
- Tabletop: Polyresin
- Frame: Aluminum
- Chairs: Aluminum and polyresin
- Cushions included: No
- Seating capacity: 6
Pros
- A relaxed, elegant appearance appeals to those who prefer a minimalist look
- The slatted nonpooling tabletop is ideal for all-season weather conditions or backyards with pools
- Made with quality materials including aluminum and polyresin; comes in 6 colorways
Cons
- Partial assembly is required before use
With blended materials, natural hues, and clean lines, this Joel six-person patio dining set from AllModern has a contemporary design. The table features a rectangular silhouette and comes with 2 benches, all made with aluminum and polyresin that come in 6 colorways. The materials of this table stand up to the sun and storms effectively.
AllModern’s benches seat up to 6 people. Shoppers can also rely on the slatted design for an added touch of texture while also taking advantage of the non-pooling effect. Though this table offers a unique, simple design, it does require partial assembly before use.
Get the AllModern Joel outdoor dining set at AllModern.
Best Bang For The Buck
Christopher Knight Home Hallandale in Hammered Bronze
Product Specs
- Tabletop: Cast aluminum
- Frame: Cast aluminum
- Chairs: Cast aluminum
- Cushions included: No
- Seating capacity: 4
Pros
- Comes with a round table and chairs with an elegant design; suitable for small spaces
- Cast aluminum construction is rust- and weather-resistant for excellent durability
- The round table is built with a center umbrella hole for convenience
Cons
- Only comes in 1 color option; may not suit some backyard spaces
- No chair cushions are included with the purchase; may not be as comfortable as some comparable options
Consider this cast aluminum dining set from Christopher Knight Home for small dinners and casual gatherings. The five-piece set includes four outdoor dining chairs and a round table with an elegant design. The set seats four guests comfortably on supportive chairs, which feature a high back and armrests. A center umbrella hole makes it simple to add a shady patio umbrella for optimal lounging.
The set is made of rust-resistant cast aluminum, which is sturdy and weather-resistant. With an intricate antique design and gorgeous bronze color, this set is ideal for deck, patio, and poolside entertaining.
Get the Christopher Knight Home hammered bronze outdoor dining set at Amazon or Target.
Best Rustic
Walker Edison 6-Piece Modern Patio Dining Set
Product Specs
- Tabletop: Acacia wood
- Frame: Acacia wood
- Chairs: Acacia wood
- Cushions included: Yes
- Seating capacity: 7
Pros
- Includes 1 butterfly extension dining table, 4 chairs, and 1 bench; comes in 3 different colorways
- Lightweight construction and step-by-step instructions should be easy to assemble
- Includes comfortable cushions with UV-resistant covers
Cons
- Limited weather resistance; should be oiled once every 2 to 3 months to prevent fading and damage
Solid acacia wood gives Walker Edison’s dining set a warm, homey look. It features a simple design with gently curved lines and slatted surfaces—also available in a chevron design. Light brown, dark brown, and gray finishes offer choices for different aesthetics.
This set includes four chairs, one bench, and an extendable rectangular dining table to provide space for up to seven people. Comfortable cream-colored cushions, curved armrests, and a sturdy backrest on each chair offer support and comfort for outdoor dining. Solid wood construction requires a bit more maintenance than some other sets. The manufacturer recommends applying teak oil every 2 to 3 months.
Get the Walker Edison modern outdoor dining set at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Metal
Christopher Knight Home Hallandale in Black Sand
Product Specs
- Tabletop: Cast aluminum
- Frame: Cast aluminum
- Chairs: Cast aluminum
- Cushions included: No
- Seating capacity: 4
Pros
- Durable, rust-resistant material is weather-resistant enough for excellent longevity
- The compact design is suitable for small porches, patios, and poolsides
- Classic lattice design with antique-inspired detailing
Cons
- Some assembly is required upon delivery; may be tricky for some users
Durable and long-lasting, metal is an excellent material for outdoor dining sets. Christopher Knight Home’s cast aluminum dining set offers an elegant and comfortable choice for those who prefer outdoor metal furniture.
This set includes a square table and four chairs made of rust-resistant, all-weather cast aluminum—suitable for a porch, patio, or poolside. Each piece is lightweight enough to move easily but won’t skitter away with a big gust of wind like many plastic pieces.
Besides durability, this patio dining furniture set has a classic design with crisscross lattice patterning and intricate antique details. To suit most patios, it comes in black.
Get the Christopher Knight Home black sand outdoor dining set at Amazon.
Best Wicker
Wisteria Lane 7-Piece Outdoor Dining Table & Ottoman
Product Specs
- Tabletop: Wood plastic composite
- Frame: Galvanized steel
- Chairs: 3 (ottomans)
- Cushions included: Yes
- Seating capacity: 9
Pros
- Made with a durable, weather-resistant polyethylene (PE) rattan wicker and galvanized steel for excellent longevity
- Comes with a loveseat, table, 3 ottomans, and 9 cushions; seats up to 9 people comfortably
- Ottomans can be conveniently stored under the table when not in use
- All of the cushions are made with zippered splash-proof covers
Cons
- May take some time and work to assemble properly
- Does not come with a cover for protection in winter months
Wicker is one of the most common and durable materials on the market when it comes to outdoor furniture, and this Wisteria Lane set is no exception. This seven-piece set is made with durable galvanized steel and hand-woven PE wicker rattan for excellent weather resistance while the anti-slip pads on the bottom of the furniture prevent sliding or scuffing.
This outdoor dining set comes with two single armrest loveseats, a corner loveseat, a wood-plastic composite rectangular dining table, three ottomans, 13 sponge-padded cushions with zippered splash-proof covers, an instruction manual, and all the necessary hardware for assembly.
This model is also extremely user-friendly as all of the ottomans can be stored under the table with ease when not in use. It’s available in blue, gray, red, and ivory. Finally, this option has a flexible seating capacity of up to 9 people.
Get the Wisteria Lane outdoor dining set at Amazon.
Best Extension
Walker Edison 6-Piece Classic Outdoor Dining Set
Product Specs
- Tabletop: Acacia wood
- Frame: Acacia wood
- Chairs: Acacia wood
- Cushions included: Yes
- Seating capacity: 5 to 6 people
Pros
- Tabletop extends from 55 to 79 inches long; seats between 5 and 6 people
- Comes with a table, 4 X-backed chairs, and a bench; each has a high weight capacity
- Made with high-quality acacia wood construction; highly weather-resistant
- Each X-back chair comes with a UV-resistant cushion
Cons
- Requires teak oil every 2 to 3 months to prevent discoloration and damage
Walker Edison is a well-known name in the furniture industry for a reason, and this outdoor dining set is no different. Made with high-quality acacia wood, this table and chair set is capable of seating 5 to 6 people comfortably. It comes with 4 X-back chairs, an extendable table, and a bench, all of which are preassembled.
The dining table extends from 55 to 79 inches long by 35 inches wide by 30 inches high. Each of the chairs can hold up to 250 pounds, and the bench can hold up to 400 pounds. Plus, each of the chairs comes with a UV-resistant cushion. Though this model is typically resistant to inclement weather conditions, teak oil should be applied every 2 to 3 months to keep it looking new.
Get the Walker Edison classic outdoor dining set at Amazon.
Best Bistro Set
Best Choice Products 3-Piece Patio Bistro Set
Product Specs
- Tabletop: Cast aluminum
- Frame: Cast aluminum
- Chairs: Cast aluminum
- Cushions included: No
- Seating capacity: 2
Pros
- Integrated floral design; suitable for patios, gardens, porches, and balconies
- Comes in 3 color options to suit a variety of outdoor spaces
- Rust- and weather-resistant cast aluminum construction does not require any assembly
- Affordable price point compared to other options on the market
Cons
- This set is not foldable; may be hard to store in the off-season
This Best Choice Products bistro table is perfect for enjoying morning coffees or intimate backyard dinners for two. The three-piece set includes a round bistro table and two chairs. Made of solid cast aluminum, the set features a rust- and weather-resistant finish to last several seasons.
This compact bistro set makes an affordable and functional accent piece for a garden or patio oasis. The compact set fits into various spots, including apartment balconies and other small spaces. Both the table and chairs include a decorative tulip floral design and come in a teal, white, or brushed-bronze antique finish to add a bit of charm to any outdoor space.
Get the Best Choice Products outdoor dining set at Amazon or Target.
Best Bar Height
Wade Logan Weisser 6 -Person Outdoor Dining Set
Product Specs
- Tabletop: Glass
- Frame: Steel
- Chairs: Wicker/rattan and steel
- Cushions included: Yes
- Seating capacity: 6
Pros
- Comes with a high-top table, 6 chairs, and 6 cushions
- Wicker/rattan and steel construction provide excellent durability and weather resistance
- Stools include a footrest on each end for flexible and comfortable seating
Cons
- Full assembly is required; may be difficult for some users
Wade Logan’s Weisser bar table is an excellent addition to an outdoor space for hosting parties, catching up over drinks, or snacking poolside.
The hightop set includes a table with a glass tabletop and six stools, accented with an easy-to-clean polyethylene wicker rattan covering. Each stool has a footrest on each side and comes with a thick cushion for added comfort.
Its clean, classic design blends in with almost any outdoor space, plus it comes in several neutral colorways.
Get the Wade Logan outdoor dining set at Wayfair.
Also Consider
Devoko 9-Piece Patio Dining Set
Product Specs
- Tabletop: Glass
- Frame: Steel and polyethylene
- Chairs: Steel and polyethylene
- Cushions included: Yes
- Seating capacity: 8
Pros
- Comes with a table with a tempered-glass top, 4 chairs, 4 ottomans, and 12 cushions
- Set is made with rattan, steel, and PE for excellent durability
- Each chair and ottoman comes with a zippered cushion
Cons
- Less stylish than some other choices; may not match some outdoor spaces
Dining sets can pack a hefty price tag, but not every nice dining set has to break the bank. For those looking for a more budget-friendly way to furnish an outdoor space, consider Devoko’s nine-piece dining set.
The set includes a square table with a tempered glass top and eight seats, all made to hold up to the great outdoors. Each piece features a steel frame covered with easy-to-clean polyethylene rattan. For added comfort and variety, this dining set includes four high-back chairs and four ottomans. The zippered chair cushions are included.
Get the Devoko outdoor dining set at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor Dining Set
Patio dining furniture comes in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and styles. While the many options may seem overwhelming, keep a few important factors in mind when shopping for the ideal set. To find the best outdoor dining set for a space, consider the set’s size, design, material, comfort, and additional features.
Outdoor Space
The size and shape of the outdoor space probably ranks highest among all considerations when choosing a new outdoor dining set. Most outdoor dining sets include a circular, square, or rectangular patio table. Choose the shape and size that best fit the space without overwhelming the area. Remember to allow enough room for guests to move around the table, pull out a chair, and seat themselves.
According to Friedman, “Location is incredibly important. If you want to comfortably dine outside, you’ll want to control the amount of sunlight and wind in the area, and you’ll also want a location that’s close enough to your kitchen to easily bring food out.”
Consider the outdoor surface where the patio dining furniture will sit. Most table and patio chair designs work well on flat patios or porches, but thin chair legs may catch on any grooves in decking. For uneven surfaces like a grassy lawn, a patio table and chairs with thicker legs and wide feet usually are a better choice. If the seating area receives a lot of direct sunlight, consider a table with a center hole for a patio umbrella.
Material
When choosing the material for a dining set, consider durability, maintenance, and style. Outdoor dining sets come in a wide array of materials made to withstand outdoor conditions, including wood, synthetic resin, glass, plastic, aluminum, and steel.
Friedman shares his particular favorites with us: “Wood or wicker are excellent natural choices. They look great and, if you’re willing to do some maintenance, they can last for years.” He adds that “cedar in particular is a good wood choice because it’s so resinous. This helps it to avoid water damage.”
Also consider how well the material can withstand weather conditions in the area. Extreme sun and heat may splinter wood, while severe cold frequently cracks plastic. Salty air breaks down many metals. These climate factors impact the furniture’s longevity and maintenance requirements.
Fabric elements matter for outdoor furniture, too. Look for weatherproof textiles like vinyl, polyester, or fade-resistant synthetics, such as Sunbrella, which are designed to weather the weather. Consider bringing cushions indoors when not in use to prevent mildewing or fading from the sun.
Style
An outdoor dining set makes a stylish centerpiece to match an existing outdoor kitchen. When choosing the set, consider the aesthetics of the outdoor space and the dining set’s intended use. Dining sets come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and materials, all of which contribute to their style.
For a more casual atmosphere, a circular table works well for small gatherings. For dinner parties or more formal events, a long rectangular table offers a more traditional style as well as space for additional guests. Smaller tables provide an intimate setting, while larger tables are excellent for hosting gatherings.
Consider color and material to match the set to any current backyard accessories. Consider sleek materials like metal and glass for a more modern look and natural materials like wood, wicker, and teak for a warm, rustic aesthetic.
Comfort
Whether it’s a small bistro set for intimate dinners or a long dining table for outdoor entertaining, comfort ranks as a top priority. A comfortable dining set means enjoying the outdoors longer.
An ergonomic seat, soft cushions, and sling chair designs turn a simple chair into a cozy lounger. Ergonomic dining chairs provide supportive seats, backs, and armrests to make them more comfortable than their stiffer counterparts.
Sling chairs use lightweight fabrics to create a comfortable hammock-like sling to sit on. Cushions turn hard chairs into cushy seats. Available in a range of water-resistant or quick-drying materials, they come ready for outdoor use.
Maintenance
In addition to weather, spills, and stains, an outdoor dining table and chairs can fall victim to dirt and mildew throughout the seasons, so look for an easy-to-clean option. All outdoor furniture needs an occasional wiping or washing at minimum.
Consider water-resistant materials, which resist spills and dirt, making them durable and easy to clean. Covering or bringing in the dining set during bad weather or the off-season helps keep the furniture clean and extend its lifespan.
You could also follow Friedman’s pro design advice by “keeping a storage bin on your deck or patio for your furniture padding, which is a great way to protect it while also keeping it conveniently accessible.”
Some materials, like certain types of wood, rattan, and metal, may need additional maintenance if they rust or the protective varnish wears off. Follow the manufacturer’s care guidelines to restore the look of these pieces.
Weight and Additional Features
Outdoor dining furniture sets range in weight from lightweight plastic options to heftier wooden sets. For windy areas, consider a heavier dining set so the chairs won’t go skidding away with a big gust of wind. For those who frequently rearrange the space for events and activities, a lighter dining set helps facilitate frequent reconfiguration.
Stackable chairs and foldable tables make outdoor furniture easier to store or tuck to the side when not in use. For even more convenience, consider a multipurpose design, like modular sofa seating or tables and ottomans with hidden storage. For entertaining, some outdoor dining tables include extendable or fold-up leaves to add extra space for guests.
FAQs
A new outdoor dining set can turn an unused patio or backyard into a lovely space for relaxing and entertaining. Finding the right set is important to ensure a suitable fit and adequate seating space. Keep reading for answers to some frequently asked questions about choosing and setting up a new outdoor dining set.
When made well and maintained, metal furniture (like sets made from wrought iron, stainless steel, or cast aluminum) rank among the most durable choices for the patio.
Consider the size of the outdoor space and the number of guests you hope to seat. Choose a dining set that won’t overcrowd your outdoor space but that offers adequate seating space.
Choose the dining set shape according to your intended use and your preferred aesthetic. Round tables are ideal for casual seating and informal gatherings, while larger square or rectangular tables work best for dinner parties and formal sit-down events.
Cushion style, color, and thickness come down to personal preference, but look for a sturdy material that can handle the outdoors.
