hospo 101: seating styles

a guide for cafes, bars, & restaurants

A personal pet peeves here in New Zealand is owners who overlook a crucial aspect of a cafe layout; restaurant layout; or bar layout:

Choosing seating styles that don’t align with a concept, maximize space, or ensure customer comfort.

Nothing, in my opinion, lets down an amazing interior more than a room filled with one kind of seating, all at the same height. Well thought out seating styles will even impact on revenue - the ability to comfortably fit more guests and control guest turnover is affected. In this blog post, we'll explore various seating options, from cozy two-tops to casual bar-height seating, to help you make informed decisions while working with your cafe’s interior designer.

Two-Tops: Intimacy and Connection

The classic two-top tables offer an intimate setting, perfect for couples or individuals seeking a quiet moment with a cup of coffee or a one-on-one dinner. These cozy arrangements foster a sense of closeness and connection. Consider placing these tables near windows or in quiet corners, providing customers with a peaceful atmosphere to relax and enjoy their experience.

Four-Tops / Six-tops: Socializing and Group Gatherings

Four-top tables are versatile seating options that cater to groups of friends or families seeking a shared dining experience. These larger tables accommodate socializing and the joy of shared entrees (always a great upsell!). Strategically placing four-tops in areas with ample space and a lively ambiance will encourage patrons to gather and converse. . Flexible arrangements that allow four or six tops to be split into two tops is imperative.

Bar Seating: Cheers to Conversation

Bar seating adds a touch of sophistication and social interaction to your cafe's ambiance. Equipped with high stools or chairs, this seating style is ideal for customers looking to engage in conversations with bartenders, chefs, or fellow patrons. Implementing a well-designed bar area allows customers to enjoy their drinks while observing the art of mixology or savoring the lively atmosphere of your bar, restaurant, or cafe.

Counter Height: Elevated Dining Experiences

Counter-height seating offers a unique and modern dining experience, combining style and functionality. Think backyard beer garden seating, or bistro tables for some height difference. Taller tables paired with stools or chairs create a contemporary ambiance and allow customers to enjoy a different perspective. Counter seating can be positioned near the service area or in window alcoves, providing a dynamic and engaging atmosphere that showcases your cafe's offerings. These can even be used with bar leaners for optimizing small spaces.

Booths and Banquettes: Comfort and Privacy

Booths and banquettes provide a sense of comfort and privacy, making them popular choices for customers seeking a cozy and intimate dining experience. These seating options offer cushioned comfort and visual separation from other patrons, creating an intimate atmosphere for conversations and relaxation. Consider incorporating booths and banquettes in areas where customers can enjoy privacy while still feeling connected to the overall ambiance of your cafe.

Lounge Seating: Relaxation and Unwinding

Lounge seating presents an opportunity to create a laid-back and inviting space within your cafe. An excellent way to make a larger open space have some structure. Plush sofas, armchairs, or low-seating options beckon customers to relax, unwind, and enjoy their time in a cozy and comfortable setting. Lounge seating can be particularly appealing for customers in a lobby lounge, looking to lounge with a cup of coffee, catch up on work, or engage in casual meetings.

As a cafe owner; restauranteur; hotelier; or bar owner; the seating styles you choose play a significant role in shaping the ambiance and experience for your customers. By understanding the various options, such as two-tops, four-tops, bar seating, counter height, booths, banquettes, and lounge seating, you can create a harmonious and inviting space that caters to different preferences and group sizes. Work with an interior designer to consider your cafe's concept, available space, and customer comfort when designing the layout. Ultimately, a well-designed seating arrangement will enhance the overall experience and contribute to the success of your cafe.