The 8 Best Kitchen and Dining Room Tables of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Updated: Jun. 18, 2024
Whether you're looking to enjoy a holiday meal with friends or simply need a space to enjoy breakfast with your loved ones, the best dining room tables offer ample space for eating, socializing and hosting.
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Famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright claimed the hearth was the heart of the home. But for many of us—especially those who spend a great deal of time cooking and baking for our family—the dining room table is where all the love lives. The best dining room tables turn a quiet, unassuming room into a dedicated space for connecting, laughing and enjoying crowd-pleasing meals with loved ones.
But what makes a suitable dining room table? Well, that depends on a few factors, including who you ask. Some folks favor an outdoor dining table when the weather is right. Others prefer a sprawling indoor option that offers room for flower delivery displays and a generous number of seats for guests. Even among the shopping editors at Taste of Home, preferences span smaller, space-saving options and pricier heirloom-style pieces among dozens of other designs.
“There are so many options for a table that suites one’s specific needs,” says award-winning interior designer Andy Yates. “Designers solve challenges with appropriate solutions, so understanding a client’s specific lifestyle and habits is key to specifying the best table for their dining experience.”
Lauren Lerner, Principal Designer and Founder of Living with Lolo, agrees, and also suggests prioritizing sturdy construction, functional design, comfortable legroom, and setting a practical budget while factoring in maintenance costs.
With so many different styles and places to shop, finding the best dining room table for your family requires extensive research and consideration. Luckily, the shopping editors at Taste of Home have plenty of experience hosting (and often working) from our dining rooms, making us bonafide pros at finding the best dining room tables. We rounded up our favorite options and tested them in our own spaces over the course of months and, in some cases, years. These are our eight favorite options at every style, price point and size.
Best Overall Dining Table
Serif Extendable Dining Table
Pros:
- Appealing mid-century design
- Easy-to-follow directions
- Sturdy, heavy materials
- Extendable to 79 inches
- Hidden tray for storing leaves when not in use
- Scratch- and stain-resistant tabletop
Cons:
- Pricey
- Not 100% wood
Sturdy materials and a pleasant, simplistic design make the Serif extendable dining table our top pick for the best dining room tables overall. Apart from the clean, neutral lines, we appreciate the simple assembly and low-maintenance materials that make it a shoo-in for families. A choice of oak or walnut offers an extra layer of customization.
“The table provides a smooth, flat surface that’s stain- and scratch-resistant, so it’s great for a variety of family activities like cooking and crafting,” says Editor Mary Henn, who owns a Serif table. Despite the tabletop not boasting 100% wood, it’s still simple to maintain and doesn’t scratch easily. “While you should only use wood-safe products for a deep clean, a wet rag should do the trick for cleaning up daily messes,” notes Mary.
One of our favorite aspects of this unassuming wood table is that it truly works in almost any space. It looks just as at home with a spread of Pioneer Woman dishes as it does adorned with mid-century margarita glasses. Additionally, thanks to the extendable tabletop, it seats anywhere from four to eight people. Just install the hidden leaf for holidays and gatherings. We love that the leaves also nestle into a hidden tray beneath the tabletop when not in use, freeing up additional storage space.
Overall, we find it worth the slightly higher price point, especially if you’re looking for an option built to last through years of dinner parties and daily use.
Dimensions: 59” L x 34.5” W x 29.75” H | Seats: 4 to 8 | Material(s): Solid ash, ash veneer, engineered wood | Features: Extendable to 78.75”, scratch- and stain-resistant top
Best Dining Table Set
Saybrook Dining Table with Leaf
Pros:
- Sturdy hardwood construction
- Optional 18-inch leaf included
- Attractive two-tone design
- Easy to clean
- Matching chairs, buffet, sideboard and china cabinet available
Cons:
- Heavy at 130 pounds
- Pricey
Senior Editor Caitlyn Fitzpatrick knows how difficult it is to find the best dining room tables for a space. “When my husband and I bought our house nearly four years ago, we luckily had most of the furniture we already needed — except for a dining room set. That meant it was that much more important to find a truly stunning table and chairs set,” she says. “We accomplished that with the Saybrook dining table with leaf.”
While you can purchase the Saybrook table on its own, Caitlyn opted for the full set, which includes six chairs. Apart from the easy-to-clean tabletop and extendable feature, the dining table set offers a blend of styles that give it a luxe look. It weighs in pretty heavily at 130 pounds, which indicates quality materials. That said, we expect the table to last through years of use. There’s also optional matching kitchen storage available in the form of a buffet, sideboard and china cabinet, which complete the set.
“The off-white table legs and warm brown top have a cool contrast that makes it feel luxurious,” agrees Caitlyn. “We keep the included 18-inch leaf in year-round, but if your space is smaller, you might just want to put it in during the holidays or big family gatherings (don’t worry, it’s easy to do). While on the expensive side, you truly get what you pay for with this two-tone table. It measures 80 inches long by 40 inches wide by 30.5 inches tall (with the leaf) and has textured details to give it a slightly rustic vibe.”
Pro tip: If you order from Raymour & Flanigan like Caitlyn did, invest in the five-year Platinum Protection plan. When scented room oils leaked on her table and pulled off the top coating, a rep came to their home and fixed it within a matter of hours — and it looks as good as new.
Dimensions: 62” L x 40″ W x 30.50″ H | Seats: 6 to 8 | Material(s): Kiln dried wood, plywood, hardwood, wood veneer | Features: Extendable to 80″, optional matching buffet, sideboard and china cabinet, 6 chairs included
Best Round Dining Table
Round Sintered-Stone Dining Table
Pros:
- Features a large lazy Susan, perfect for shared dishes
- Very sturdy construction
- Doesn't stain or smudge easily
- Included chairs are super comfortable
- Rotating lazy Susan can be removed
- Gorgeous, elegant look
Cons:
- Arrives in extremely heavy boxes
- Doesn't come with tools
When you think of a round dining table, oftentimes a ho-hum, wood version with four legs springs to mind. Those seeking something with a little more personality should consider this round sintered stone dining table. Not only is it one of the best dining room tables due to its gorgeous, marbled look and gold accents, but it also comes with a rotating lazy Susan for shared dishes. Think of all the hosting possibilities: charcuterie, pasta tastings and self-serve sushi? Sign us up!
Senior Shopping Editor Daria Smith, who tested the table in her own home, notes that overall, it’s a “very solid, marble-inspired table that’s worth the money.” It arrives in heavy boxes that indicate quality, so be sure to snag a few friends to help with assembly. While the setup is rather intensive (plan on gathering up your tools and setting aside a few hours), the end result is sturdy and striking.
While the central lazy Susan offers endless party potential, it also easily relocates for times when you need more room, like working from home or craft nights. When it’s time to have folks over, simply replace it in the center of the table and load it up with appetizers. “I’ve hosted several six-people dinners,” notes Daria. “As far as dining purposes go, the table is very sturdy.” Overall, this dining table is the perfect blend of form, function and fun.
Dimensions: 59” L x 59” W x 29” H | Seats: 6 | Material(s): Sintered stone, stainless steel | Features: Central rotating lazy Susan, 6 included chairs
Best Extendable Dining Table
Bethany Dining Set
Pros:
- Leaf insert included
- Cozy, foam-padded seats
- White glove assembly option
- Easy to clean (parents, take note!)
- Comes with a brunch bench
Cons:
- Tabletop is not 100% wood
- Locking mechanism attached to leaf
Extendable dining tables come in many different forms. One of our favorites is this Bethany dining set, which offers the convenience of an extendable table blended with the casual comfort of a breakfast nook. As one of the best dining room tables for hosting, it offers ample space for extra guests. A dark walnut finish offers a luxe look, and the included bench comes with generous padding and modern, easy-to-clean leather upholstery.
Senior Shopping Editor Caroline Lubinsky loves her table, noting that the delivery was one of the easiest she’s encountered. “It was delivered almost entirely assembled,” she says, noting that the delivery team did an excellent job. She goes on to say that the extension leaf is easy to take in and out and offers ample space for hosting.
That said, she does mention a few notable cons, including a curious issue with the extension leaf. “My only gripe is that if you remove the extension leaf, you don’t have a way to lock the table back into place since the leaf has the locking mechanism.” She resolved this by installing a locking mechanism from the hardware store, though you can skip this step if you choose to leave the leaf in full-time.
Additionally, the table itself isn’t solid wood, which may be a negative for some — especially at this price point. However, the lightweight materials make it easy to relocate, so it’s a good pick for folks who like to redecorate every so often. In addition, the table arrives with a dining bench and dining chair. Combined, it fits up to four people (or more with the extension leaf installed).
Dimensions: 56″ L x 36 W x 29.75” H | Seats: 4 | Material(s): Hardwood, MDF board, metal | Features: Extendable to 72″
Best Dining Table Set for Small Spaces
Expand Coffee to Dining Table
Pros:
- Converts from a coffee to dining table
- Several finishes and colors available
- Leaves hidden inside the table
- Discreet locking wheels
Cons:
- Heaviness makes it difficult to assemble
One way to incorporate a small-space dining table is to snag a slim, two-person dining set. Another option is a multitasking dining table, which is exactly what this Expand dining table offers. Because it moonlights as a coffee table, it doesn’t compromise space for seats, which offers an advantage over other options. When dinnertime is done, simply fold it down and wheel it back in place in front of the sofa using the discreet locking casters. It’s one of the best dining room tables for rooms both small and large.
“This is a versatile table and great for small spaces due to its narrow profile and multi-functional use,” says Product Tester Sheri Kaz who uses one in her own home. “It can be used as a coffee table or an expanded dining table, and with the folding chairs, it’s perfect for small spaces.” The table also comes with an extension leaf for dinner parties and holidays, which is stored right inside the tabletop and accommodates up to 12 guests.
Because it’s controlled manually by a hydraulic gas mechanism, folks can adjust its height anywhere between a minimum of 11 inches and a maximum of 30.5 inches. This makes it easy to use almost any chairs or benches you’d like. Additionally, it fits with a range of decor styles thanks to eight different finishes. Choices include glossy white, walnut wood and concrete among other options.
Dimensions: 31.5″ W x 86.5 3⁄4″ L x 30.5″ H | Seats: 8 to 12 | Material(s): Powder-coated steel, glossy paint, wood texture | Features: Expands from a coffee table, locking caster wheels, expandable leaf insert
Best Glass Dining Table
Gillham Glass Dining Table
Pros:
- Durable, thick glass top
- Ample packing material means no disappointing deliveries
- Simple assembly
- Easy to clean
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Smudges easily
Some of the best dining room tables come with glass tops, which makes them easy to clean and maintain — especially in messy homes. After moving into my very small apartment, I had to find an attractive table that was easy to clean — and fit more than two people. We love to host, even though we may share a dedicated living room and dining area. This glass dining table was everything I needed. It’s pretty, durable and extremely affordable. The best part? It fits into my small apartment flawlessly!
The table is sturdy, gorgeous, and wipes up easily. Because there’s no wood, there’s no need to worry about spills and stains penetrating the surface. Sure, it easily smudges since it’s glass, but it wipes down in seconds. It’s perfect for messy families like mine. The only downside is that we had to hunt down matching dining chairs, but that just leaves more room for my style personality to shine.
One of my favorite things about this pick is that it’s available for less than $300—a total steal. As a bonus, I’ve had it since last year and it has yet to scratch, crack or shatter. I attribute this to the nearly half-inch thick tempered glass top, which easily holds up to 150 pounds. I’ve loaded mine with food, my work gear and two chubby kitties at once and have had zero issues. It’s so sturdy!
Dimensions: 30” H x 32” W x 55” L | Seats: 4 to 6 | Material(s): Tempered glass, steel | Features: Tempered glass top, sled-inspired base
Best Budget Dining Table
Ink + Ivy Sonoma Natural Wood Dining Table
Pros:
- Made of solid reclaimed pine wood
- Gunmetal finishes
- Easily cleans with a damp cloth
- Seats up to 6
Cons:
- Seating sold separately
When hunting down the best dining room tables, don’t sleep on the power of recycled materials. The Ink + Ivy Sonoma dining table cuts costs by using reclaimed pine wood, which is also super environmentally friendly. It also gives the table a weathered, natural and soft look that easily blends in with myriad decor styles.
“We’ve owned this farmhouse-inspired Sonoma dining table since 2020, and we’ve eaten everything on it, from my husband’s Italian pasta dishes to my Caribbean cuisines,” says former Editor Cher Checchio, who owns the table. “The mix of reclaimed pine wood and industrial gunmetal finishes beautifully complement the other wood tones in our home. Plus, the visible knotty pine details add rustic charm. Although we’re only a family of three, this 72-inch white-washed table is large enough to seat six, so there’s room to grow.”
The neutral wood mixes well with farmhouse decor like finds from the Pioneer Woman furniture line. With the right accents, it can also be used to create an industrial-style dining area. This dining table is something of a chameleon—it easily adapts to a number of decor styles and aesthetics.
‘We paired it with the matching weathered bench and the solid wood slatted dining chairs with soft gray cushions. Over time, we’ve noticed that the cushions could offer more padding, but the entire dining set has held up quite nicely. With this woodsy table, we feel like we’re dining in a log cabin in the mountains at every meal,” says Cher.
Dimensions: 36” L x 72” W x 30” H | Seats: Up to 6 | Material(s): Reclaimed pine wood, gunmetal accents | Features: Available for under $400
Best Family Dining Table
Seb Dining Table Set
Pros:
- Made with acacia wood for durability
- Very sturdy construction
- Quick, painless assembly
- White glove delivery optional
- Modern, rustic look goes with lots of decor styles
Cons:
- Not many colors and styles available
Finding the best dining table for your family means locating a table that’s as sturdy as it is easy to maintain. The Seb dining table is the “goldilocks” of family dining furniture. Its rustic, extendable wood tabletop wipes up easily and can accommodate up to six people at once. Thanks to a classic look and an optional matching chair and bench set, it’s also easy on the eyes.
“This is such a high-quality table for the price,” says Senior Editor Katie Bandurski of her Seb table and chairs. “I love the timeless look, and the variety of sizes ensures there’s a good fit for any kitchen. Delivery was seamless, and assembly took minimal time and effort — all I needed to do was attach the legs to the table and bench. This table is heirloom-quality status and, with proper care, should last a lifetime.” There’s also the option to snag an extendable version for even more room.
“I’m incredibly impressed with how sturdy this piece is,” she says of the set. “And it’s 100% wood. As for the price, I think it’s very reasonable. You could easily spend this much on a dining table set at Ikea, Amazon or Wayfair for something made of MDF. I’ve stood on the bench a few times to take photos and have not felt like I was going to fall through. Everything is solid wood. My kitchen now feels complete.”
Dimensions: 31.5” L x 59.1” W x 29.5” H | Seats: 4 to 6 | Material(s): Solid acacia wood | Features: Extendable to 70.9”, optional matching bench and chairs
What to Look for When Buying a Dining Table
Shopping for the best dining room tables? There are a few things to keep at the top of your mind. “When shopping for a dining table, consider factors like material, size, shape, and style to ensure it fits your space, matches your aesthetic, and meets your practical needs for daily use and entertaining guests,” says Andy. “Also, think about maintenance requirements and long-term durability.”
- Budget: Stores like Wayfair offer a variety of options at many different price points—just be sure to read any reviews carefully, especially for budget picks. Consider the value you’re looking for and try to find solid, long-lasting options within your budget.
- Shape: With shape, it often comes down to personal preference, though the space usually determines which is best. “I consider the shape of the table—rectangle/square/oval/round—based both on the client preference and the size and shape of the room. Additional furnishings like a china cabinet or buffet will also affect the circulation and size for the table itself,” notes Andy.
- Size: “Determining the scale of your dining/kitchen table depends on the available space, and how many people you typically host for daily meals and entertaining,” says Andy. Think about the size of your family and whether you regularly host parties or holiday dinners. The size of your space also factors into this.
- Durability: “I am a realistic designer, and when clients have active children and busy schedules, I make selections that are more forgiving and easier to maintain,” says Andy. “Formal dining spaces have different needs than casual family areas, which is why understanding how a client truly lives is tantamount to making the right selection.”
- Indoor vs. Outdoor: Consider where you’d like your dining table to live. While most folks are likely hunting down an indoor table that works for family dinners, others may prefer a sturdier, weather-friendly outdoor dining set for barbecues and al fresco dining. Location is a big consideration, especially since most indoor dining sets don’t play well with rain. Instead, opt for a wicker or iron set that can withstand the elements.
- Aesthetic: “As designers, we always consider the functional aspects of these pieces concurrent to the aesthetics,” says Andy. When it comes to looks, consider the rest of your space and what makes the most sense.
- Material: According to Andy, each material has its unique beauty and durability, though wood is often the top choice for families who prefer easy maintenance. In addition, Lauren mentions that common durable tabletop materials include solid wood, hardwoods like oak or maple, glass, metal, and stone such as granite
Why You Should Trust Us
I’m a shopping expert with Taste of Home with ample experience recommending high-quality products to readers. I’ve tested everything from the best baking subscriptions to the best flavored coffee brands. My specialty lies in reviewing kitchen and dining products and delivering the best information to readers. For this piece, I consulted fellow shopping editors at Taste of Home for their recommendations on the best dining tables. Together, we have over a decade of combined experience shopping and making recommendations to readers.
For this piece, I also consulted award-winning interior designer Andy Yates. Andy is driven by creative passion, experience and curiosity. His goal is always to transform spaces into experiences people absolutely love. He is honored by clients who invite him to help realize a vision for a comfortable, stylish and deeply personal home – an oasis reflective of their tastes, values and unique lifestyle.
We also spoke with Lauren Lerner, Principal Designer and Founder of Living with Lolo, a top-rated design firm located in Scottsdale, Arizona. Lauren’s design approach looks very different than most other firms’ because she focuses on how a space makes a person feel, rather than how it looks. There’s a science behind how specific colors, textures, lighting and key elements make us feel in a space. Recognized as one of Arizona’s top 10 interior designers, Lauren works with a select group of clients nationally. Designer to many celebrities, athletes and busy executives, Lauren’s work has been featured in national publications for its unique style.
How We Tested Each Dining Table
Each dining table recommended in this piece is a dining table that our editorial staff has in their own homes. We only included the best dining room tables that we truly love and have withstood everything from dinner parties to holiday meals and work-from-home days. We included tables at various price points, from budget picks to heirloom pieces that may cost more but offer several years of future meals and parties. While each pick offers different features, we feel confident recommending each option on this list as they’ve held up in our own homes over months (and in some cases, years) of heavy use.
FAQ
What is the most durable dining room table top?
According to Andy, there are a myriad of options for table tops. “Quartz and natural stones are highly resistant to scratches, stains, and fading, with little maintenance required between regular cleanings. More porous stones, like marble, are an exception,” says Andy. “Glass is easy to maintain and has the properties of transparency and reflection, which can allow a room to feel larger, or highlight a fantastic base or rug; but it is susceptible to scratches, and the glare could be an issue for some diners.”
When it comes to the most popular dining table material, Andy says that wood is a clear winner. “Wood is a diverse material with exquisite beauty and warmth that, when properly sealed and maintained, will last for generations. Like porous stones, it is susceptible to moisture, so the sealant and its maintenance are key to a lasting finish,” he says. “There is no right or wrong material for tabletops, but rather, the understanding of the materiality and how much one can invest in maintenance. ”
What is the most popular style dining table?
According to Andy, popular dining table styles shift and are usually cyclical in nature. “Right now, we see a resurgence of travertine, 80s modern and Brutalist pieces. But the classics—mid-century modern, shaker, and farmhouse—are definitely here to stay. With the shift to much more casual, less formal living, ornate and delicate styles have waned in popularity. Even at the high end of the market, I work with clients who prefer easy, low-maintenance, fun and casual tables for real-life family dining, homework, games and entertaining—all in one.”
How to choose a dining table size?
“When choosing a dining table size, start by measuring your space,” says Lauren. “Leave 36-48 inches around the table for easy movement and allocate 24 inches of width per person.” She also recommends opting for rectangular tables in longer rooms, square tables in smaller rooms, and round/oval tables in compact areas with flexible seating. “For rectangular tables seating 6-8, aim for sizes between 60-72 inches long, while square tables for 4 should be 36-44 inches per side, and round tables for 4-6 should range from 42-60 inches in diameter,” she says.
Originally Published: May 30, 2024
