We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. What to Buy Hosting & Dining The 13 Best Dining Room Tables to Fit Any Space and Budget Our top picks are stylish and functional for spaces big and small. By Rochelle Bilow Rochelle Bilow Rochelle Bilow is a graduate of the French Culinary Institute, and the former social media manager at Bon Appétit and Cooking Light magazines. She has also worked as a cook on a small farm in Central New York and a Michelin-starred restaurant in New York City. Her first book, a food and farming memoir titled The Call of the Farm, was published in 2014. Her second book, a romance novel set in Scotland, will be published in February 2023. Food & Wine's Editorial Guidelines Updated on February 4, 2024 In This Article Expand In This Article Our Top Picks ReviewsFactors to Consider FAQ Our Expertise Photo: West Elm A dining room table is a big purchase — literally and figuratively. Of course, the right dining table should accommodate your household (and potentially have room for guests), but much more goes into buying a table than size. This piece of functional furniture can transform a room, anchoring it and elevating your design and decor. And for when you’re entertaining at home, a proper table quite literally makes the meal, especially when you're serving a spectacular holiday roast. Extendable tables are a particularly smart buy because they can grow to accommodate guests. According to design expert Mikel Welch: “Round or oval dining tables can typically accommodate more people than rectangular tables. It’s easier to add additional chairs around curved surfaces, whereas rectangles and squares have definitive cut-off points on end, which can prohibit you from squeezing in extra seating.” This rule can be broken, he notes, with hidden leaves. “Hidden leaves allow you the flexibility to expand your dining table when you have larger parties.” The combination of function and style is what makes shopping for a dining table fun; you can find great options in different materials, styles, and finishes. These are the best dining tables we've found for every kind of space and design style. Now, you'll just need to choose the perfect tablecloth and some stunning flatware. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Lark Manor Alyra Dining Table at Wayfair ($1,160) Jump to Review Best Splurge: Arhaus Kensington Dining Table at Arhaus.com (See Price) Jump to Review Best Value: Wade Logan Walnut Dining Table at Wayfair ($330) Jump to Review Best Extendable: West Elm Mid-Century Expandable Dining Table at West Elm ($799) Jump to Review Best Budget Extendable: Mobili Fiver Extendable Table at Amazon ($511) Jump to Review Best Live Edge Wood: West Elm Live Edge Wood Rectangle Dining Table at West Elm ($1,949) Jump to Review Best Farmhouse: Ink+Ivy Sonoma Dining Table at Target ($610) Jump to Review Best Round: Pottery Barn Portola Round Dining Table at Pottery Barn ($1,999) Jump to Review Best Oval: Williams Sonoma Tioga Dining Table at Williams-Sonoma ($4,495) Jump to Review Best Glass: Pottery Barn Avery Dining Table at Pottery Barn ($749) Jump to Review Best Overall Lark Manor Alyra Dining Table PHOTO: Wayfair $1,160 at Wayfair Pros This table is made from real wood, it’s extendable, and it has a large seating capacity. Cons The weathered aesthetic may not be a fit for all buyers, and some assembly is required. Solid wood dining tables aren’t typically synonymous with affordable prices: this steal from Wayfair has no business being so gorgeous at such a low price. The base and topper are made from real wood, and it’s available in a handful of neutral-adjacent finishes, so you can choose the best option for your decor scheme. It functions well, too. The removable leaf is stored inside the table, so extending the size is as easy as pie. Due to its versatility, quality, and extendable sizing which makes it ideal for hosting dinner parties, this Wayfair pick gets our vote for the best overall dinner table. Dimensions: 64.2 x 32.48 x 64.2 inches; extends to 81.9 inches | Material: Solid rubberwood | Seating Capacity: 6 to 8 | Shape: Rectangular Best Splurge Arhaus Kensington Dining Table View on Arhaus.com Pros This table can be customized with four different wood finishes, plus it comes in three sizes. Cons The smallest 72-inch table weighs 269 pounds, making this the heaviest pick on our list. From the sustainably sourced Finnish pine wood construction to its subtly distressed finishes, this dining room table has a unique, antiqued vibe that will aesthetically level up even quick weeknight dinners at home. Artisans build each of these tables by hand, plank by plank, so each piece will look slightly different and unique. Choose between three available table sizes ranging from 72 to 118 inches, with enough room to seat from 8 to 16 dinner guests. The wood finish can also be customized and comes in four rich colors, from light honey to ebony. Durable and sleek while still having a classic style, we think this splurge-worthy pick from Arhaus will feel like it's always been a part of your home. Now, you'll just need the perfect pair of candlesticks or flameless candles to set the mood for your tablescape. Dimensions: 72 x 39 x 30.75 inches (smallest size) | Material: Solid pine wood | Seating Capacity: 8-16 | Shape: Rectangular Best Value Wade Logan Walnut Dining Table PHOTO: Wayfair $330 at Wayfair Pros Beyond its reasonable price point, this table comes in three different finishes and arrives with speedy delivery. Cons Assembly is required, some customers note the finish looks inexpensive, and this table is not extendable. A dining table that seats 8 and is under $450 seems too good to be true, but this versatile pick from Wayfair is the real deal. (Well, mostly real: The base is made from solid rubberwood, but the top is engineered wood.) It’s purposefully simple so it will blend in with a variety of design styles, and comes in three different finishes: walnut, black, and gray. There’s no white glove delivery option, but it comes with all the tools required for assembly. Dimensions: 76 x 35.50 x 29.75 inches | Material: Solid rubberwood base, manufactured wood top with ash veneer | Seating Capacity: 8 | Shape: Rectangular Best Extendable West Elm Mid-Century Expandable Dining Table PHOTO: West Elm $799 at West Elm Pros This table is made from Fair Trade Certified, sustainable wood, and it comes in a variety of sizes. Cons There is only one color available. This handsome table would look right at home in Don Draper’s dining room (or next to your matching mid-century bar cart). With a classic mid-century silhouette, it’s meant to make a quietly stylish statement. This rectangular table is extendable and comes in three different sizes, which can accommodate anywhere from 2 to 10 diners. The largest option is long enough for bench seating, although in keeping with the era’s trends, we’re partial to these upholstered mid-century chairs. Dimensions: 39 x 32 x 30 inches; expands to 55 x 32 x 30 inches; other sizes available | Material: Solid eucalyptus legs and frame; engineered wood top with walnut veneer | Seating Capacity: 2-4, 4-6, 6-10 (depending on the size ordered) | Shape: Rectangular Best Budget Extendable Mobili Fiver Extendable Table PHOTO: Amazon $511 at Amazon Pros This table is inexpensive and extendable, making it versatile for entertaining. Cons Assembly is required and takes two people, and the finish is engineered wood. Don’t let the hefty legs on this table fool you: It’s surprisingly nimble. One of the easiest-to-extend dining tables we’ve found, it smoothly slides out to accommodate 8 diners. The affordable price tag is in large part due to the use of engineered wood (rather than solid wood), although the rustic oak finish will blend in with most modern homes. When fully extended, the center of the table has a small gap on both sides — but it’s not unattractive, and for special events, you could easily cover it up with a linen tablecloth. Dimensions: 63.2 x 30.3 x 29.92 inches; extends to 78.7 inches | Material: Engineered wood | Seating Capacity: 6-8 | Shape: Rectangular Best Live Edge Wood West Elm Live Edge Wood Rectangle Dining Table $1,949 at West Elm Pros Each table is one-of-a-kind and customizable. Cons At 128.5 pounds, this table is heavy and needs to be maintained with wood polish. In a word: Wow. This stunner of a dining table is made in the live edge style, so each order is an homage to the tree that it once was. Choose your tabletop size between 84-inch or 94-inch options, both fashioned with sturdy iron sleigh legs. We love the contrast between natural acacia wood and industrial nickel-finished iron. It’s a high-end buy that we think will really shine with the right dinnerware. This special table requires a little extra care though: Basic household cleaners should not be used, and the table should be regularly rubbed down with wood conditioner to avoid drying out. Dimensions: 84 x 38 x 30 inches; also available in 94 x 40 and 30 inches | Material: Iron legs with nickel finish; solid acacia wood top with walnut finish | Seating Capacity: 8-10 | Shape: Rectangular Best Farmhouse Ink+Ivy Sonoma Dining Table PHOTO: Target $391 at Target Pros This option is versatile for many decor schemes and is made from solid wood. Cons It’s susceptible to staining if coasters are not used, and it’s not extendable. This dining table is a little bit country, a little bit modern-industrial chic. The bleached pine wood, thick slats, and chunky legs are perfect for farmhouse kitchens, while the sleek metal supports keep things from becoming kitschy. The rustic top looks truly vintage, with a weathered finish in three different color options. Fans of bench seating will want to pick up one or two of these matching benches, also available through Target. Dimensions: 72 x 36 x 30 inches | Material: Solid pine frame and top, metal supports | Seating Capacity: 6 | Shape: Rectangular Best Round Pottery Barn Portola Round Dining Table PHOTO: Pottery Barn $1,999 at Pottery Barn Pros This round table is inspired by minimalist, Scandinavian design for a clean and simple look, and it's expandable. Cons It's made from engineered wood, and you must wipe up any spills immediately to maintain the finish. Round tables are a solid option when it comes to making the most of your space, and the Portola table is even more versatile because it's expandable. It's understated but still incredibly stylish, inspired by modern Scandinavian design with its clean, minimalist lines. Plus, the oak finish brings a comfortable warmth that will fit in with a variety of kitchen aesthetics and easily set the mood for cozy dinners or daytime gatherings. Its one drawback is that it's constructed from engineered wood with an oak veneer, rather than solid oak wood, and the finish can require some extra care to maintain. The manufacturer recommends always using coasters and immediately wiping up any spills. But engineered wood can still be rather durable over time, and it's less susceptible to cracking or splitting. Dimensions: 20 x 54 x 30 inches | Material: Engineered wood with an oak veneer | Seating Capacity: 4-6 | Shape: Round Best Oval Williams Sonoma Tioga Dining Table PHOTO: Williams Sonoma $4,495 at Williams-Sonoma Pros The solid wood with lacquered top is durable, and it comes with two available finishes. Cons This table surface is prone to staining if coasters are not used and spills are not immediately treated. We took a pro tip from Welch with this oval-shaped table that is dinner party-ready. It's made for a crowd or a spacious, roomy feel for your weeknight dinners. The classic pedestal style comes with the potential for a modern flair: the white option is high-gloss. (The natural finish is less shiny.) Thoughtfully designed and made, the table comes with levelers to ensure it won’t wobble on uneven surfaces. For added stability and visual interest, Welch recommends adding an interesting textured rug beneath your oval-shaped dining table. To make cleanup even easier, opt for a washable rug for your dining room. Dimensions: 86 inches in diameter | Material: Solid oakwood | Seating Capacity: 6-8 | Shape: Oval Best Glass Pottery Barn Avery Dining Table PHOTO: Pottery Barn $749 at Pottery Barn Pros This minimalistic table comes in two sizes, with two available leg finishes. Cons The glass surface cannot be cleaned with household cleaners, and you must use coasters to avoid water damage. A glass dining table isn’t for everyone, but if it’s your style, you’re going to swoon over this one. It’s minimalist-chic with tapered legs in either chrome or brushed gold finishes and is designed to let the tempered glass top do the talking. Available in two different lengths, it’s moderately sized and seats six, so there's enough room for the whole family and maybe a guest or two. But you'll have to take care with the glass table surface as it can't be cleaned with regular household cleaners. Instead, the manufacturer recommends simply dusting it with a soft dry cloth. Well-utilized placemats can help prevent any messes that might require a heavier cleaning, but if the need arises, you can simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and a solution of water and vinegar if necessary. Dimensions: 60 x 36 x 30 inches | Material: Steel frame, tempered glass top | Seating Capacity: 4 to 6 | Shape: Rectangular Best Small Rectangular West Elm Box Frame Expandable Table PHOTO: West Elm $699 at West Elm Pros This table has a small footprint, drop leaves, and offers white-glove delivery. Cons The table top is made from solid mango wood, so it requires some extra care. This table may be small, but it’s a hard worker. With drop leaves on both ends, it can easily transform from a 2-seater to a 4-top. The black metal legs give it an industrial vibe that’d be right at home in most modern homes or apartments, and the warm, mango wood brings a touch of natural charm. If square footage is tight in your living space, you’ll also appreciate that this table can double as a generously sized desk. Just make sure you take good care of the mango wood top. Avoid placing hot items directly on the surface, and try to blot up any spills as soon as you can. You'll also want to avoid using harsh household cleaners that could remove the finish on the wood. Dimensions: 24 x 32 x 30 inches; extends to 48 inches | Material: Metal legs, mango wood top | Seating Capacity: 2-4 | Shape: Rectangular Best Small Round AllModern Jordan Round Dining Table PHOTO: Wayfair $194 at Wayfair $440 at allmodern.com Pros This table includes several finish and color options, plus it’s durable and sturdy. Cons It requires some assembly, which can be a challenge with just one person. Round dining tables typically work best in rooms short on square footage, and this budget buy from AllModern is a great option for small households. You can easily customize it to fit your space with three color options for the legs — the natural and walnut finishes are particularly attractive — and three choices for the tabletop as well (white, black, or gray). And if a glass top is more your style, you can also find a similar option on Amazon that fits the bill. While this pedestal table isn’t big enough to accommodate a dinner party, it’s just the right size for an intimate meal. And of course, it’s hard to beat the price. Dimensions: 29.75 x 39.5 inches | Material: Solid wood and steel base with engineered wood top | Seating Capacity: 4 | Shape: Round Best Space-Saving Ikea Norden Gateleg Table PHOTO: Ikea $350 at Ikea Pros This versatile table can fit into almost any space, and it includes built-in storage. Cons It's made from solid wood, so it's a bit heavy and can be cumbersome to move around. If you're really running short on space (like when your dining room also doubles as an office, living space, and part of your eat-in kitchen), then you might want something a bit more versatile. The Norden Table from Ikea is great because it includes drop leaves on both sides, so it can expand to accommodate four or more seats and also collapses small enough to be stored against the wall as an unobtrusive sideboard or behind your couch as a console table. We also love the added storage for things like your new gold flatware, dinner napkins, and all those other kitchen tools that you can't seem to find space for anywhere else. But if you plan to move it around frequently to accommodate your space, keep in mind that it's made from solid birch wood, so it's pretty heavy. Dimensions: 10.25 x 31.5 x 29 inches; expands to 60 inches | Material: Birch wood | Seating Capacity: 2-4 | Shape: Rectangular Factors to Consider Dimensions When shopping for a dining room table, you’ll need to consider not just the length and width of the table, but how much of a footprint it will have when chairs are around it. A dining table should anchor a space, not dominate it. Consider the size and shape of the room you'll be putting it in, as well as the existing furniture already occupying the space, and then determine if the table will fit in nicely. Be sure to invest in a table that is long enough to accommodate the amount of people you need; and if you like to entertain frequently, consider buying a table that can expand for additional space. There's also height to consider: The standard dining table height is 30 inches, so if you choose one that’s lower or higher, you’ll probably need to invest in specialty chairs, as well. Seating Capacity Before you buy your new dining table, get clear on how you’ll most often be using it: If you don’t plan on entertaining, a seating capacity that accommodates just your household will do the trick. But if you like to host dinner parties or holidays, an extendable table is a smart investment. Your choices here are either inserted leaves that can be tucked away in the middle when not in use, or drop leaves on the side. The shape of your table can also be something to look at when considering seating capacity. If you don't entertain very frequently but would still like to be able to accommodate one or two guests from time to time, then perhaps consider a round or oval table, as it's easier to squeeze in more seating when tables are curved rather than square. Material The materials used are the key factor in a dining table’s price tag. Real or solid wood is more expensive than composite wood (usually labeled as “engineered” or “manufactured” wood). It’s also heavier and more durable. Glass and marble tops are more expensive still and make a big visual impact — but they can be harder to maintain, and they're not able to be made extendable. The material can also impact the care required to maintain your table. So be sure to research whether the manufacturer recommends any special cleaning instructions and consider if that level of maintenance can fit into your lifestyle. Shape Rectangular dining tables are the most traditional shapes, but generally speaking, round ones can be more versatile. With more modern and contemporary designs, you can also find some irregularly shaped tables in the mix. Both round and square tables are sometimes fitted with drop leaves, which can be lifted to create a larger diameter. The shape of your dining table mostly comes down to personal style: what will work best in your space? Frequently Asked Questions What is the best way to decorate a dining table? This is the fun part! For a more traditional and timeless look, Welch suggests a linen runner and a low slender bowl. Fill the bowl with “seasonal elements, such as artichokes, lemons, oranges, apples, or even air plants.” Add some stylish candle holders to complete the look.Not the traditional type? “If you’re into drama, go for a statement-piece vase with a wide opening,” says Welch. “You can use dried branches, faux olive branches, fresh flowers, pampas grass, or leafy greenery.” (Italian Ruscus is his go-to). What is the best height for a dining table? The best height for a dining room table depends mostly on the space you're working with, as well as your own personal preference. As we mentioned before, the standard dining table height is around 30 inches. However, you can also opt to choose a counter- or bar-height dining table, which sit between 34 to 36 inches or 40 to 42 inches respectively.Bar- or counter-height tables can easily be tucked into an eat-in kitchen if you don't have a dedicated dining room. However, you'll likely have to shop for bar stools rather than standard dining chairs in order to find seating at the appropriate height. What size rug is best to go under a dining table? “A good rule of thumb is to ensure that your dining room rug extends about 4 feet around the entire dining table," says Welch. Don’t forget to take into account the space needed when a chair is pushed out. For that reason, Welch prefers to have about 20 inches of space between the back chair leg, and the end of the rug. “This will help with making the dining table and chairs feel grounded on the rug.” What is the most durable style of dining room table? Although it seems fragile, Welch notes that glass is one of the most durable materials for dining room tables. “It’s non-porous, so liquids won’t stain or seep through. It can also be wiped down easily.” He does note that the durability factor of glass diminishes if your household has children.If your heart is set on hardwood tables, Welch suggests looking into options with sealed tops. The combination of sturdy wood and lacquered top produces a table that can “take a beating.” Pine, walnut, oak, and chestnut are his top picks.Finally, Welch is a fan of marble and stone. “The surfaces can handle spills like a countertop,” he says, adding that a sealed top is of key importance with stone. And for one final, slightly unconventional choice? “Concrete dining tables have become very popular for indoor use as well. This gives a dining room a modern feel.” How do you clean a dining room table? Depending on the material, dining room tables can be a little fussy to clean. For the most part, a basic multi-purpose cleaner is not a good choice, because it can damage the surface. For solid wood tables, use a damp rag, and treat regularly with a wood conditioner. Glass cleaner and a nonabrasive cloth can be used for glass tables. For marble and stone, a specialty solution or a damp rag will do the trick. Our Expertise Rochelle Bilow is a food writer and editor with over a decade of professional experience. Previously a senior associate editor and social media manager at Bon Appétit and Cooking Light magazines, Rochelle is also a novelist, a culinary school graduate, and a former professional baker and line cook. For this article, Rochelle interviewed Mikel Welch, a design specialist and on-air personality who has appeared on HGTV and is a regular contributor on The Drew Barrymore Show. He gave expert insight into what factors to consider when shopping for a dining room table and how to choose the perfect one for you and your space. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit