Our list includes all-weather wicker sets, foldable metal options, and happy hour-ready high-tops.
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When it comes to living life outdoors, our backyards, patios, and balconies have a lot of hats to wear. From client Zoom meetings and post-school homework sessions to cocktail hour under the stars, you do a little bit of everything outdoors in the summer — and you need patio furniture that can be just as multi-faceted as you are. Your new secret weapon to getting the most out of your space? A bistro set. The best outdoor bistro sets can pull double duty in your backyard, packing functionality into a small (and often, affordable) piece of furniture.
To set you up for success this summer, we’ve done the shopping for you, researching numerous top-rated designs to find the best outdoor bistro set for your backyard, garden, or patio. We also interviewed interior design expert Kristin Marino of Kozy Kasa to get her personal favorite picks. From slim designs that can be folded for quick and easy storage to high-top styles that feel just like a seat at your favorite local bar, these outdoor bistro sets will transform your backyard escape.
This bistro set comes in seven happy hues, so you can easily coordinate with your existing backyard decor.
The feet on the chairs and table in this set are very small, so they may get stuck in the cracks of larger patio surfaces, like flagstone.
For a functional yet charming bistro set, look no further than this classic trio from Grand Patio. Made from durable steel, it’s powder coated in a selection of shades for extra durability and rust resistance and features a slim yet comfortable design suitable to any size backyard.
Each piece in the collection (which includes two chairs and a table) folds down for easy storage when not in use, and the set itself is fairly lightweight, in case you want to tote it around your yard as you chase the afternoon sun.
While it’s made from metal, this bistro set features plastic caps on the feet to prevent it from scratching delicate stone or decking.
At 21 inches wide, this table is one of the smallest on our list, so it may not be equipped for hosting a four-course meal.
Decking out an entire backyard in time for summer can cost a pretty penny, so it’s a good idea to save money where you can. If you’re on the hunt for a functional bistro table that won’t break the bank, you’ve found it in this FDW design. Designed with a combination of weather-resistant wood and steel, this affordable collection comes in at just $50 but still has all the features you need for a comfortable spot to sip coffee (or cocktails), including a breathable slatted seat and collapsable capabilities.
Two chairs come with this bistro set, but the table is a roomy 26 inches and can easily fit another few guests.
Concrete is a porous material, so if this table isn’t sealed and maintained properly, it can stain from food or drinks.
This bistro table set from Pottery Barn delivers serious style to your backyard, immediately transforming even the most basic space into a dreamy scene. At the center, a white concrete table adds a sculptural edge, while woven chairs (made from a combination of mahogany wood and all-weather wicker) add a textural touch.
While it’s a bit pricier than many of the other picks on our list, this splurge-worthy bistro set is a great way to add personality and luxury to your outdoor escape.
The colorways available in this bistro collection are finished in a high-performance powder coating, so you don’t have to worry about fading or chipping due to the elements.
This collection is lightweight, so it may blow over when subjected to a blustery summer storm.
Folding bistro tables have gained a reputation for being flimsy, but not this Anthropologie set. It’s sturdier than most, with a slim steel frame that still folds practically flat when not in use. The durable powder coating acts as the first line of defense against scratches and water and comes in cheery shades to add some pizzazz to your patio.
“Summer is all about color to me and this set is available in a variety of bright hues,” says Marino, who chose this pretty pick. “I love that it’s foldable, so it can be put away when not in use and helps you achieve a multi-functional space. The yellow is my favorite!”
This bistro set boasts a slat seat design, which prevents water from pooling and is great for areas that see a lot of water, like gardens.
This collection is finished with a beautiful shine, but it’s not as weather-resistant as a powder-coated finish and can fade over time, resulting in a dulled appearance.
If you’re someone who pours a lot of love and attention into your garden, you deserve a place to kick up your feet, relax, and take in the view of your vegetables. This classic bistro set from Alpine Corporation incorporates a very on-theme vine cut-out design to add a touch of whimsy to your garden scene.
Choose from various colorful shades, including cornflower blue, pepper orange, or tomato red for the final finishing touch on your happy place.
This bistro set touts a pre-drilled hole for an umbrella; a feature that many other sets on the market don’t have.
Made from durable eucalyptus wood, this bistro set will age visually over time, which won’t affect the integrity of the pieces but will change its appearance slightly.
Constructed from durable eucalyptus wood and stained in a stylish gray driftwood hue, this Pottery Barn pick is our winner for the best outdoor bistro for the backyard set for one sneaky reason: the umbrella hole! The last thing you want to do is invest in a stylish bistro set for your backyard and then not be able to stand sitting there for more than five minutes anytime the sun is out (which may not be an issue with a covered patio or deck).
This set comes with an umbrella hole, so you can pair it with all the shade coverage you need. Other perks we love? A foldable design and gently-sloped chair backs for added comfort.
This bistro set is made from acacia wood, which is naturally resistant to outdoor elements and won’t darken or change color over time.
Due to the nature of this space-saving design, the surface area the table offers is small — you probably can’t swing dinner for two atop it (but coffee or drinks, yes!).
Apartment dwellers can make the most of their balcony or courtyard with the help of this clever bistro set, which swaps the classic round (or square) tabletop shape for a space-saving half-moon design. The flat side of the table can nestle flush against the exterior of your home (or even the edge of your balcony), while the arched surface provides enough room for reading or sipping an evening mocktail. Want to clear space ahead of your next viewing party? Simply fold up the chairs and table when not in use.
The whole design is constructed from durable acacia wood, which will keep its beautiful mid-tone color and resist various weather elements (such as mold, mildew, and UV damage) for years to come.
You can choose from two different table diameters — 28 and 38 inches — depending on how much available space you have on your deck or patio.
The chairs for this set are sold in pairs of two so, while the 28-inch table is advertised as fitting three people, you can only buy two or four chairs to go with it.
By default, many outdoor bistro sets tend to skew classic or rustic in design, especially considering wood is such a popular material. If you’re looking for a more modern option, this West Elm collection offers up a nice stylistic change of pace. The slim tapered legs and streamlined seatbacks would look right at home outside of a modern art museum, while of-the-moment color options allow you to try out trending hues.
The best part? The chairs in this set are stackable, so they can easily be sorted and set aside if you need a bit more room.
The table in this set has an umbrella hole at the center in case you want to pair it with a parasol.
Many people find wicker to be uncomfortable to sit on. While this bistro seat does have cushions, they have to be purchased separately.
A bistro set for two works great — that is until the kids want to eat their breakfast outside, too. This Frontgate collection teams everything you love about an easy-going bistro-style table with a larger footprint that can comfortably seat four diners. Choose from four different colors of all-weather wicker (which is resistant to mold, mildew, fading, and splintering), each of which is wrapped around an aluminum frame for top-notch durability.
The chairs themselves cannot be folded, but the table can, saving you at least a little bit of extra room if guests come by.
This bistro set is so durable that you can even leave it outdoors all winter long if you’re someone who doesn’t have the space to store your warm weather gear away.
Unlike many of the others on our list, this collection does not come pre-assembled, so some assembly will be required before you can commence lounging.
If you’re hard on your things — or live in an especially unforgiving climate — you’re going to want a bistro set that’s tough enough to keep up with your needs. This classic collection from Polywood does just that, thanks to the brand's proprietary HDPE lumber, a sturdy kind of plastic that mimics the look of real wood but can stand up to enormous amounts of sunlight, moisture, and everyday wear and tear.
This cottage-inspired set of three would look right at home at a lake house or beach bungalow and comes in a selection of better-than-neutral shades that will coordinate with any decor you already have going on in your backyard.
The chairs in this bistro set boast bar footrests so your legs aren’t just dangling mid-air and you can sip your rosé comfortably.
The glass top on this table design may show dirt more easily than some of the other materials on our list.
There’s no need to jump on a plane this summer — make your backyard your favorite escape with a bar setup that rivals your favorite resort. This high-top table and chair set levels up your next cocktail hour with stylish rattan finishes and durable, weatherproof materials that won’t fade from the sun or rust in the rain (or stain if you spill a marg on them).
We love that the height of this table can be used alongside the chairs, or as a place to stand, sip, and socialize, practically doubling the entertaining space you have in your backyard with just one buy.
The backs of these bistro chairs slope gently for added support and lounge-worthy comfort.
The seat cushions cannot be unzipped and put in the washing machine, so you’ll have to clean them by hand.
Wicker outdoor furniture is a summer staple, and for good reason–it’s a charming yet durable material that bottles both style and function. You could stick to traditional wicker shapes and styles (of which there are plenty!) or take a page from Marino’s book and look for a bistro collection that skews a bit more boho.
“I love all the unique wicker detailing on this style of set. It’s delicate and special, but there’s still a durable metal frame underneath that keeps things sturdy,” she says. Bonus: This set can be arranged as a traditional bistro collection (with the chairs facing the table) or as a conversation set for added versatility.
The feet on this collection are extra wide and disk-like to help prevent them from sinking into gravel, sand, or dirt.
The table surface is made of meshed metal, which can harbor food and crumbs and be harder to keep clean.
There’s a reason you’ll find wrought iron outdoor furniture at nearly every hotel, park, and restaurant in the world. The tough-as-nails metal is an ideal option for homeowners and designers who want a classic, old-world look with a dose of added durability thrown in. This traditional black wrought iron bistro set looks like it could be a lucky vintage find, with intricate scroll detailing and plush cushions that will make it your new favorite spot to read.
Note: Better Homes & Gardens is owned by Food & Wine’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith.
The slatted design on the tabletop and chairs allows for water to flow right off the piece in the event of a rainstorm, so you won’t have to wipe it down.
Eucalyptus wood requires occasional oiling to stay looking its best, so this set will require a bit of maintenance.
When it comes to wood outdoor furniture, there are typically a few go-to materials on the market, including eucalyptus, acacia, and teak. While all have their perks (and require a bit of maintenance), eucalyptus is one of the most durable in the bunch, with a natural ability to protect itself against moisture and rot. Translation: this bistro set is (basically) worry-free once you give it a good oiling, and it will continue to look just as good as the years pass. The chairs themselves are sturdy and roomy, with a slight recline that will have you breathing a sigh of relief the moment you take five in them.
These chairs have roomy armrests (not many on our list do!), which make them the ideal place to perch if you’re planning on spending the afternoon reading.
This set requires assembly before it can be used (but don’t worry — all the tools you need are included).
If you have aspirations of becoming a professional vacationer (don’t we all?), we invite you to while away the afternoon with a gentle sway on this Winston Porter bistro set. Constructed from rustic acacia wood, it features two rocking chairs and a petite side table, along with water-resistant cushions that ensure that your perch stays plush and comfortable.
While the included table isn’t tall enough to eat from (not that eating while rocking sounds all that easy, anyway), it is the perfect size to hold a book, a small snack, or a glass of sweet tea.
When shopping for an outdoor bistro set, one of the first things you should consider is what type of material you want. There are perks (and pitfalls!) to almost every choice, so oftentimes your decision will come down to both the style of set you’re looking for, as well as where you live and how often you’ll use it. Metal frames will be among the most durable, while picks like wicker, rattan, and wood earn extra points for style.
If you’re hoping to leave your bistro set outdoors year-round with little-to-no protection, you’ll want to shop for an extra durable material like wrought iron, which can withstand all sorts of weather conditions and won’t fade in the sunlight.
There’s a bistro set out there suited to any design vibe, from clean and modern metal styles to beachy wicker and intricate, Victorian-inspired wrought iron. When shopping for an outdoor bistro set, consider the style of your home — specifically the exterior and surrounding landscape — as well as any pieces you already have in your outdoor space, like a dining table or rug. You want to complement, not clash, with existing decor for a cohesive look that speaks to your home’s style.
How versatile you need your chosen bistro set to be will depend on several factors, including what other type of outdoor furniture you have in your backyard space. If your bistro set will need to pull double or triple duty as a place to lounge, dine, and work, you’ll want to shop with that versatility in mind and look for styles that have roomy tabletops, cushioned seats, and bonus features like umbrella holes. Consider all the ways you’ll want to use your bistro set and keep a look out for “flaws” that may make some of these uses difficult (like a mesh tabletop that will be impossible to write on while working).
While they originally got their start on the sidewalks of Parisian restaurants, the functionality of bistro sets has evolved to include all manner of usage, including as a spot to read, dine, and zen out. “Bistro sets are typically used for outdoor areas with limited space like a balcony or small outdoor patio area,” says Marino. “They’re an excellent way to create an intimate gathering space for dining or conversation while maintaining a small footprint.”
The best spot for a bistro set is, well, wherever you’ll use it most! “The goal of any bistro set is to create a functional space for dining and/or conversation,” says Marino. “Patios, balconies, or an area of grass or gravel usually work well for bistro sets. And don't forget about shade! Placing your set under a tree canopy is a good way to guarantee all-day use.”
According to Marino, the main difference between a bistro table and a regular dining table comes down to size. “Bistro translates to small restaurant or tavern,” she says. “When buying furniture, the phrase often refers to a small (usually two-seater) table and chairs that are lightweight and meant for indoor or outdoor use. Bistro tables are usually round, however, there are a few square shapes available as well.”
You’ll often notice that bistro tables have a pedestal-style design, and almost all hold functionality as a core tenant, with smart design additions like the ability to fold flat when not in use.
No — all bistro sets are not designed for outdoor use. While shopping, you will also find collections geared towards indoor use, so it’s important to read the manufacturer’s instructions to determine whether a set is sanctioned for outdoor use or not. Generally, you’ll want to shop by material to ensure your chosen bistro set is weather-proof. Look for materials like aluminum, wrought iron, wicker, acacia wood, eucalyptus wood, and teak, all of which will be able to withstand the elements.
Alyssa Longobucco is a freelance writer, editor, and stylist living in New York with over a decade of experience in the food, home, and lifestyle categories. When she's not diving into the latest trends and products, she's restoring an 1820s farmhouse in the Hudson Valley alongside her husband and children.
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