What to Buy Hosting & Dining The 11 Best Dining Room Tables to Fit Any Space and Budget Our top picks fit every budget and style, from mid-century to farmhouse. 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 September 13, 2023 In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews Factors to Consider FAQ Our Expertise We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. 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 in every category. 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 Jump to Review Best Splurge: Arhaus Kensington Dining Table at Arhaus.com Jump to Review Best Value: Wade Logan Walnut Dining Table at Wayfair Jump to Review Best Extendable: West Elm Mid-Century Expandable Dining Table at West Elm Jump to Review Best Budget Extendable: Mobili Fiver Extendable Table at Amazon Jump to Review Best Live Edge Wood: West Elm Live Edge Wood Rectangle Dining Table at West Elm Jump to Review Best Farmhouse: Ink+Ivy Sonoma Dining Table at Target Jump to Review Best Oval: Williams Sonoma Tioga Dining Table at Williams-Sonoma Jump to Review Best Glass: Pottery Barn Avery Dining Table at Pottery Barn Jump to Review Best Small Rectangular: VASAGLE Folding Dining Table at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overall Lark Manor Alyra Extendable Solid Wood Dining Table Wayfair View On 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. Price at time of publish: $1,000 Dimensions: 64.2 x 32.48 x 64.2 inches; extends to 81.9 inchesMaterial: Solid rubberwoodSeating Capacity: 6 to 8Shape: 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 piece 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 to set the mood for your tablescape. Price at time of publish: From $2,899 Dimensions: 72 x 39 x 30.75 inches (smallest size)Material: Solid pine woodSeating Capacity: 8-16Shape: Rectangular Best Value Wade Logan Walnut Artura 76'' Dining Table Wayfair View On 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. Price at time of publish: $304 Dimensions: 76 x 35.50 x 29.75 inchesMaterial: Solid rubberwood base, manufactured wood top with ash veneerSeating Capacity: 8Shape: Rectangular Best Extendable West Elm Mid-Century Expandable Dining Table Westelm View On 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. Price at time of publish: $799 Dimensions: 39 x 32 x 30 inches; expands to 55 x 32 x 30 inches; other sizes availableMaterial: Solid eucalyptus legs and frame; engineered wood top with walnut veneerSeating Capacity: 2-4, 4-6, 6-10 (depending on the size ordered)Shape: Rectangular Best Budget Extendable Mobili Fiver Extendable Table Amazon View On 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. Price at time of publish: $510 Dimensions: 63.2 x 30.3 x 29.92 inches; extends to 78.7 inchesMaterial: Engineered woodSeating Capacity: 6-8Shape: Rectangular Best Live Edge Wood West Elm Live Edge Wood Rectangle Dining Table View On 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: Basic household cleaners should not be used, and the table should be regularly rubbed down with wood conditioner to avoid drying out. Price at time of publish: From $1,899 Dimensions: 84 x 38 x 30 inches; also available in 94 x 40 and 30 inchesMaterial: Iron legs with nickel finish; solid acacia wood top with walnut finishSeating Capacity: 8-10Shape: Rectangular Best Farmhouse Ink+Ivy Sonoma Dining Table Target View On 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. Price at time of publish: $720 Dimensions: 72 x 36 x 30 inchesMaterial: Solid pine frame and top, metal supportsSeating Capacity: 6Shape: Rectangular Best Oval Williams Sonoma Tioga 86" Oval Dining Table Williams Sonoma View On 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. Price at time of publish: From $4,495 Dimensions: 86 inches in diameterMaterial: Solid oakwoodSeating Capacity: 6-8Shape: Round Best Glass Pottery Barn Avery Rectangular Glass Dining Table Pottery Barn View On 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 users 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. Price at time of publish: From $1,099 Dimensions: 60 x 36 x 30 inchesMaterial: Steel frame, tempered glass topSeating Capacity: 4 to 6Shape: Rectangular Best Small Rectangular VASAGLE Folding Dining Table Amazon View On Amazon Pros This table has a small footprint, drop leaves, and fast delivery. Cons This table is not made from real wood, so the top can scratch and dent easily. 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. If space is tight in your living space, you’ll appreciate that this table can double as a generously-sized desk. Price at time of publish: $237 Dimensions: 30 x 33.3 x 30.7 inches; extends to 47.2 inchesMaterial: Metal legs, engineered wood topSeating Capacity: 2-4Shape: Rectangular Best Small Round East West Furniture Dublin Dining Table, 42 Inch Round, Wood Texture Amazon View On Amazon Pros This table includes lots of finish and color options, plus it’s lightweight and easy to move. Cons Some buyers note their leaves don’t align perfectly with the center seam. Round dining tables typically work best in rooms short on square footage (rectangular options are more space-efficient), and this budget buy from Amazon is a great option for small households. You’ll be spoiled for choice with over a dozen color options — the mahogany and oak finishes are particularly attractive — and it’s designed with two 9-inch drop leaves. 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. Price at time of publish: $180 Dimensions: 42 x 29.5 inchesMaterial: Solid rubberwoodSeating Capacity: 2-4Shape: Round 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. The standard dining table height is 30 inches, so if you choose one that’s lower or higher, you’ll 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. 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’re harder to maintain, and are not able to be made extendable. Shape Rectangular dining tables are the most traditional shapes, but generally speaking, you can fit more folks around a round one. 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 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 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). 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. 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.” 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. In researching this article, she spoke with Mikel Welch, a design specialist and on-air personality who has appeared on HGTV and is a regular contributor on The Drew Barrymore Show. Was this page helpful? 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