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Sitting down to dinner with the family is always a special occasion, whether you’re squished together on the couch or gathered casually in the kitchen. Sitting together around a dining table, though, adds a sense of occasion, and if you like to have guests over, it’s actually the most practical option, for the size alone. Below, you’ll find our picks for the best dining tables from our favorite online furniture stores, and elsewhere.
For those happy to splash out a little on a dining table, Brad Smith, interior designer and CEO at Omni Home Ideas, suggests looking at this classic Eames round table from Herman Miller. Smith describes it as, “A timeless design with impeccable craftsmanship,” and since it’s available in a variety of sizes, with multiple options for both the table top and the base finish, it’ll go with just about any decor you have.
A sleek, versatile table with enough options to suit any style of room.
At the other end of the pricing spectrum is this bench and table combo, recommended by Mariya Snisar, head of interior design at Renowell. “This sturdy set features black steel tubing and a neatly-done surface panel, boasting a rich, brown wood grain finish,” she says. A great space-saving option, both the benches fit neatly underneath the table so you don’t trip over them when not in use.
A cheap, compact option for those looking to save space and money.
“This dining table is made of sustainably sourced wood, with a beautiful grain,” enthuses Smith. It features a clean, uncluttered design, modern, angular legs, and is crafted from solid acacia wood, but it’s the fact that it’s also extendable that makes this such a win. The two drop-in leaves allow for up to eight people to enjoy a meal, and should you be interested, it coordinates neatly with West Elm’s Anderson dining bench (although you’ll have to buy that separately).
A stylish and versatile dining table suitable for both small and larger groups.
If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck—or perhaps, the most table for your tender—then Castlery’s Seb dining table is for you. “A remarkable blend of style, craftsmanship, and value, this table becomes the star of any dining room,” says Artem Kropovinsky, an interior design expert and founder of Arsight, an award-winning interior design studio based in NYC. “Its timeless elegance promises years of admiration and hearty meals.”
A simple, but elegant table that’ll stand the test of time.
“I’ve had a few excellent extending dining tables on my list already, but if extendability is your thing, it’s all about the Pottery Barn Aptos,” says Time Stamped Shopping contributing writer Amber Katz. “It’s made from kiln-dried mango wood with a gorgeous Sandwash finish that will elevate any dining room. Sustainably sourced, the wood even helps prevent warping and developing mildew. You can add one drop-in extension leaf to bring the table from 70 to 90 inches quickly and easily—so you can have that big dinner party after all.”
A stylish, eye-catching table with the potential to seat up to ten people.
“A small table can still pack in style, as Burrow’s iteration pulls off beautifully,” Katz says. “If you’re looking to create a visually appealing dining area in a small space, this might be the table for you. This extendable table features a leaf that can accommodate eight people, making it super simple to serve small or large groups. There’s a cool hidden tray that stores the leaf when not in use, so you don’t have to figure out a place to keep it in your kitchen or dining room. It’s also scratch- and stain-resistant.”
If you have limited dining-room or kitchen real estate, this handsome walnut or oak rectangular table will inspire you to entertain, thanks to its extra leaf that can accommodate up to eight people.
Although Snisar’s pick for this category is sold as an outdoor table, there’s nothing to say you shouldn’t place it indoors, especially if you’re going for a more modern or colorful look. Made of sturdy, yet lightweight metal and available in four different colors—bright white, a more utilitarian gray, or striking shades of green or orange—it seats up to eight people.
An outdoor table that you’ll be happy to bring indoors for a more modern look.
Can’t decide between round or rectangular? Split the difference! “This contemporary showstopper brings an artful touch to any dining space,” says Kropovinsky. “The unique leg design and oval top showcase the rich grain of the acacia wood.” Available in three different finishes—regular, sandy, or black—the table’s pleasingly curved legs continue the oval theme right down to the floor.
A stunning table designed to be the centerpiece of any dining room.
When you think farmhouse table, you think chunky, wooden solidity, and that’s absolutely what you get here. “This is a rustic gem that exudes coastal farmhouse allure,” says Kropovinsky. “Its trestle base and decorative trim blend old-world charm with modern design elements.” Now all you need is a few goats and chickens to complete the effect.
A rustic-looking table that will look good just about anywhere.
Eating outdoors doesn’t have to mean a rickety picnic bench, as this elegant dining table shows. Available in three different finishes—dark brown top with white legs, and gray or teak with rustic metal legs—it’s both weather- and water-resistant. “I love how this table combines acacia wood on the top and rustic metal finish on the legs for a contrast that enhances its overall appeal,” comments Snisar.
An outdoor dining table that looks good enough to use inside.
If elegance is the goal, look no further than the Enzo. Sixpenny’s round dining table features a bubbly, sculptural base and tapered tabletop. It’ll be the centerpiece of any room. This handcrafted table is made from solid American oak, and is tinted in a warm, smokey-paprika finish. The natural graining pattern is so stunning, you’ll never want to cover it over with a tablecloth. What’s even better is this piece is customizable.
If you have the budget, you can’t do better than this round table with a sculptural base and solid American oak construction in a shade of warm, smokey paprika.
When looking for a table on which to set your best dinnerware sets, the first thing you’ll need to do is consider your budget. “Dining tables can vary significantly in price due to factors like brand, craftsmanship, materials, and design,” says Shawn Zar, furniture and seating expert at Superior Seating. “We all love a good deal, and with all this easy-to-assemble furniture popping up, who can resist? But it's really worth thinking about how much bang you're getting for your buck over the long run. It's not just about the immediate price, but also the table's lifespan.”
“The spot where you're planning to place your dining table, whether in an open-plan area or next to distinct architectural features, can dictate its size, shape, and material,” says Zar. “For instance, tables in sunny spots might age faster due to UV rays. If your table's near a high-traffic area, you might want something more durable. In open spaces, choosing a table that's pleasing from all angles is a good idea, since it's on full display.”
When shopping for any kind of furniture, be it comfortable couches, sleeper sofas or, yes, dining tables, what it’s made of is a huge factor to consider. “The table's material influences its durability, aesthetics, maintenance needs, and price,” explains Zar. “While wood offers a classic appeal, it reacts to environmental changes, like temperature and humidity. Glass, though modern and sleek, is a magnet for fingerprints. Metal, with its industrial charm, is sturdy but may lack the warmth you're aiming for. Marble and stone scream luxury, but they need a bit more love to maintain their look. And remember, even though that marble table might seem like the star of a magazine spread, if you've got kids, it could become a hub for unexpected 'art' and stains.”
“Your table's primary function can be a guiding star,” concludes Zar. “If it's the mainstay for daily family dinners, you might lean toward a hard-wearing option. But if you're showcasing it during special events, perhaps aesthetics can take the driver’s seat. And if you're the host with the most, consider a versatile table that can accommodate both intimate dinners and big bashes.”
My selections were made through consultations with a panel of experts, who have decades of interior design and furniture experience among them.
I also conducted thorough research to ensure every table I included had mostly positive customer reviews.
The short answer is, just about anywhere that sells furniture. “You can buy your dining table from various places such as established furniture stores, online retailers (popular ones include Bed Bath & Beyond [previously known as Overstock], Wayfair, and Amazon), custom furniture makers, home décor retailers (I love the likes of Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, and IKEA), antique shops, estate sales and auctions, as well as local artisans and craftsmen,” says Snisar. “You could also buy from designer showrooms, thrift stores, and second-hand markets, and warehouse clubs such as Costco.”
“Your choice of venue largely depends on your priorities,” adds Zar. “Local furniture stores give you the tangible advantage—you can touch, feel, and visualize the table in your space. On the other hand, online platforms like Amazon or Wayfair offer a broader range, often at competitive prices, but lack that tactile experience. For those seeking uniqueness, custom furniture makers are invaluable, albeit often pricier. Vintage stores are a wildcard, potentially offering both value and distinctiveness.”
“A solid wood dining table, particularly those made from hardwoods like oak, maple, or walnut, tends to be the most durable option,” advises Snisar. “I love these tables for their longevity and ability to withstand everyday use and occasional impacts. On top of that, you can refinish them if they suffer minor scratches or wear over time.”
Kropovinsky agrees, adding that you should opt for tables with solid joinery, avoiding those that are merely glued or nailed together.
“Tables span a wide pricing spectrum,” warns Zar. “While budget tables ($100-$500) might suffice for temporary needs, mid-range ($500-$1,500) typically offer better longevity and design. High-end ones, starting at $1,500, often come with design premiums and superior craftsmanship.”
“Typically, when it comes to choosing the best wood, hardwoods tend to be more robust and have a longer lifespan compared to softwoods,” says Snisar. “Common hardwoods utilized for wooden table tops in the United States include red oak, white oak, cherry, hard maple, and walnut.”
Kropovinsky suggests checking for the following to ensure you’re making a worthwhile investment:
Additional reporting by Amber Katz.
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