Table Top and Base Buying Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive table top and base buying guide!

Whether you're furnishing a restaurant, event venue, or wedding, selecting the right table tops and bases is essential. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know from table top shapes, materials, sizes, and edge types to base options and specialty accessories like table top and base dollies. Additionally, we'll explore specific tabletops for restaurant settings, including butcher block, laminate, and resin options, along with the popular restaurant x-base for support. Let’s dive in!

Table Top Shapes

The shape of your table top impacts both the aesthetics and functionality of your space. Different shapes suit different purposes, and choosing the right one can enhance your room's look and utility.

Common Table Top Shapes:

• Rectangular: A popular choice for dining rooms and commercial spaces, offering ample surface area and accommodating more people.
• Round: Ideal for cozy, intimate settings, great for promoting conversation in smaller dining areas or conference rooms.
• Square: Versatile and space-efficient, perfect for smaller spaces or as a decorative centerpiece.

Considerations:

• Space: A rectangular table suits long, narrow rooms, while a round table works well in corners or open areas.
• Functionality: Rectangular tops are great for dining or working, while round or square tops are better for socializing.

How Shape Affects Functionality and Aesthetics:

• Seating Capacity: Rectangular tables can fit more people compared to round or square tables of the same size.
• Flow of Movement: Round or oval tops allow easier movement around the table.
• Style: Rectangular tops fit a traditional or formal setting, while round or square tops lend a contemporary touch.

Table Top Materials

Choosing the right material is key for durability, maintenance, and style. Each material has its own strengths, so select based on your needs and space requirements.

Butcher Block Table Tops

Butcher block table tops offer a classic, durable look that’s perfect for restaurants and cafes. These tops are made from solid strips of wood, typically maple, oak, or walnut, providing both beauty and long-lasting durability. Butcher block tops are highly resistant to damage from daily wear and tear, making them ideal for busy dining environments.

• Warm, rustic appearance.
• Durable for heavy use.
• Requires regular maintenance to preserve the wood's finish and prevent moisture damage.

Indoor Restaurant Table Tops

Indoor restaurant table tops are designed specifically to meet the needs of high-traffic commercial spaces. These table tops come in a variety of materials and styles to suit any decor, from rustic wood to sleek laminate or resin finishes.

• Customizable with a wide range of colors, patterns, and materials.
• Designed for durability and ease of cleaning.
• Suitable for use in any restaurant interior setting.

Laminate Restaurant Table Tops

Laminate restaurant table tops are a popular choice for casual dining establishments because of their affordability and versatility. Laminate tops are made from layers of synthetic materials bonded together, offering a wide range of colors and finishes while being resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.

• Cost-effective and easy to maintain.
• Available in numerous designs, including wood grain and solid colors.
• Ideal for high-traffic areas with frequent spills and cleanups.

Resin Restaurant Table Tops

Resin restaurant table tops offer a glossy, durable surface that is perfect for modern or upscale dining settings. Made from a high-quality resin material, these table tops are resistant to stains, moisture, and scratches, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.

• Sleek, high-gloss finish that elevates the aesthetic of any dining space.
• Highly durable and resistant to damage.
• Available in a wide range of colors and designs.

Table Top Sizes

Table top size affects both the functionality and comfort of your dining or working space. Understanding standard sizes helps you make the best choice for your venue.

Standard Sizes:

• Rectangular tables: 36" x 72", 42" x 84", and 48" x 96".
• Round tables: 36" to 72" diameter.

Determining the Right Size:

Measure your space carefully, allowing room for chairs to move freely. As a rule of thumb, provide about 24 inches of table width per person. For example, a 72" table can seat six people comfortably, while a 96" table can accommodate eight.

Table Top Bases

The base of your table is just as important as the top—it provides support and can enhance the table's look. Choose a base that complements your table top and ensures stability.

Restaurant X-Base

The restaurant x-base is a widely-used, highly functional option for restaurant table tops. This type of base features an "X" shape, providing excellent stability while allowing for easy placement of chairs around the table. It is particularly effective for smaller round and square tables in restaurant settings.

• Strong and stable support for restaurant tables.
• Works with a variety of table top sizes.
• Sleek, minimalist design that complements most decor styles.

Popular Base Options:

• Pedestal Base: Ideal for round or square tables, offering sleek aesthetics and ample legroom.
• Trestle Base: Great for rectangular tables, providing sturdy support and easy chair movement.
• Restaurant X-Base: Highly versatile and perfect for restaurant dining tables.

Table Edge Types

The edge of your table can affect both its look and safety. Here are some common edge types to consider:

• Square Edge: Clean, modern look, perfect for creating a seamless appearance when tables are placed side by side.
• Rounded Edge: Softer, safer option, ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with children.
• Beveled Edge: Adds sophistication while preventing edge chipping.

Table Top Thickness

Thickness plays a key role in durability and aesthetics. Commercial settings often require thicker tops, while residential or office settings might benefit from thinner, more streamlined designs.

• Commercial Use: Opt for 1.5-inch thickness or more for durability.
• Residential/Office Use: A 1-inch thickness offers a sleeker look without sacrificing sturdiness.

Specialty Table Tops

Specialty table tops—such as bar tables, pub tables, high top tables, and cocktail tables—add functionality and style to your space.

• Bar & Bar Height Tables: Great for casual dining and relaxed settings.
• High Top & Pub Tables: Versatile for restaurants or home bars, perfect for socializing.
• Cocktail Tables: Ideal for events, creating elegant standing spaces for mingling.

Table Top and Base Dollies

For commercial venues or event spaces that frequently change setups, table top and base dollies are essential. These specialized dollies make moving and storing tables easy, saving time and effort during event preparations or daily operations.

At Restaurant Furniture 4 Less, we offer a variety of dollies that ensure your table tops and bases are easily moved and stored, whether for large events or daily setups. Browse our extensive collection at Restaurant Furniture 4 Less to find high-quality table tops, bases, and accessories that meet your style, functionality, and space needs! Call us today at 1-855-307-3863 for expert assistance.