The 12 Best Patio Dining Sets to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (2024)

The 12 Best Patio Dining Sets to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (1)

Patio dining sets upgrade any outdoor space, allowing you to dine al fresco and host more seamlessly outdoors. “This is a great way to expand your living and dining space,” says interior designer Rosanna Bassford. “[Plus], outdoor entertaining tends to be more casual, which can be great from a hosting perspective.”

Since patio dining sets come in many shapes and sizes—from two-person bistro sets to crowd-friendly dining tables—there are plenty of options to consider. The key is to find something durable and comfortable that suits your outdoor space, experts say.

To find the best patio dining sets, we spent hours researching the category and tested four options at home. We evaluated the outdoor dining sets for seating capacity, durability, style, and overall value. We also tapped three interior designers for expert advice.

Our Top Picks

Best Budget Patio Dining Set:

Grand Patio Bistro Set at Amazon ($120)

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Best Overall Patio Dining Set

Walker Edison Delray Classic Outdoor Dining Set

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Our Ratings

  • Setup

    4.5/5

  • Design

    4.5/5

  • Durability

    4.8/5

  • Quality

    5/5

  • Value

    4.5/5

What Stands Out

  • It comes with an expandable table, four chairs, and a bench, so it flexibly seats groups of four to six.

What Could Be Improved

  • It requires periodic upkeep, and the chairs are a little too deep.

Versatile and reliable, this six-piece dining set is a host’s best friend—and that's exactly why it earned the top spot on our list. The set comes with an extendable dining table, which expands from 55–79 inches long when you add its removable leaf. It also comes with four spacious dining chairs, four machine-washable seat cushions, and a long bench. When we tested the dining set at home, it comfortably hosted groups of four to six people. The furniture felt sturdy, the chairs proved comfortable, and the table was spacious enough for all kinds of dishes.

Made of acacia wood, the furniture looks sleek and withstood heavy storms and strong winds without getting stained or damaged. Because the chairs are so deep, their seatbacks don’t offer much support, and you can’t push them under the table all the way. The furniture also needs some upkeep: You should periodically retighten its bolts and grease it with teak oil to keep it in tip-top shape. But this dining set with a bench is sleek, sturdy, and versatile—and we think it’s worth every penny.

Price at time of publish: $1,156

Material: Acacia wood, polyester cushions | Table Size: 55–79 x 35 x 30 inches | Umbrella Hole: Yes

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What Stands Out

  • This bistro set is sturdy, lightweight, and foldable, and it comes in nine different colors.

What Could Be Improved

  • Because the dining set is so small, it’s not great for full meals.

This lightweight bistro set is a great space-saving option. Its chairs and table fold up easily so you can stash them whenever you need more room in your outdoor space, or during the off-season. With nine color options to choose from, this set is a great choice if you’re looking to add a punch of color to your patio or porch—we especially love the peaco*ck blue and sunny yellow options. And since this set is so inexpensive, you could even purchase two (or more!) sets in different colors and mix and match the chairs and table.

This set is made of powder-coated steel for a rust-resistant, rain-, and snow-tolerant finish. Despite looking quite dainty, each chair can hold up to 380 pounds, and the feet of the table and chairs have little cushioned plastic pieces so that it doesn’t damage the floor of your outdoor space. While this table is probably more suitable for morning coffee or a co*cktail and not a full meal, it’s a great place to unwind with a snack. It also comes fully assembled, so you don’t have to pull out any tools before you enjoy it.

Price at time of publish: $160

Material: Steel | Table Size: 23.5 x 23.5 x 27.75 inches | Umbrella Hole: No

Best 3-Piece Patio Dining Set

Red Barrel Studio 2-Person Outdoor Dining Set

The 12 Best Patio Dining Sets to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (7)

What Stands Out

  • This budget-friendly bistro set is great for small spaces, and it’s made with a weather-resistant finish.

What Could Be Improved

  • It may be too big for some balconies, and it only comes in two neutral colors.

This three-piece stands out because it’s versatile, budget-friendly, and includes two cushions for the chairs. This petite table and chair set is perfectly suited for a patio or small porch without crowding the space. The set is made from solid wood and has a weather-resistant finish so it will withstand rain and snow without breaking or rotting. Although the table isn’t quite large enough to have a full meal for more than two people, it’s a great size for unwinding and enjoying a co*cktail and snacks with a friend or partner after a long day.

The neutral color scheme makes it a very versatile choice that would easily fit in with colorful throw pillows or an outdoor rug, as well as more muted decor. There is some simple assembly required, but nothing too complicated or time-consuming, so you can set it up quickly and get to work relaxing.

Price at time of publish: $280

Material: Acacia wood, polyester cushions | Table Size: 27.5 x 27.5 x 29.5 inches | Umbrella Hole: No

Best 7-Piece Patio Dining Set

World Market Mariposa Outdoor Dining Set

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What Stands Out

  • This dining set comes with an extendable leaf, so it can seat between six to eight people.

What Could Be Improved

  • It only comes with six chairs, and it’ll last longer if you cover and refinish during the off-season,

If you have the space and are often entertaining at your place, consider this seven-piece set from World Market. We love that it comfortably seats six people but can be extended (with the included leaf) to seat up to eight. The perfect size for a dinner party during the warmer months, the set comes included with four side chairs (which don’t have arms) and two dining chairs that have arms. In other words, you’ll need to pull up two extra chairs of your own (or purchase two extra) if you want to seat more than six people.

This set is made from eucalyptus wood, and World Market suggests covering it up or storing it away during inclement weather in order to keep the table and chairs in good working order (World Market also sells covers for its outdoor furniture). The brand also suggests using its outdoor wood furniture finish after each season to ensure the set stays in good shape. When extended with the self-storing leaf, there is an umbrella hole, so you can get plenty of shade on sunny days.

Price at time of publish: $830

Material: Eucalyptus wood | Table Size: 77–92 x 42.36 x 30 inches | Umbrella Hole: Yes

Best 9-Piece Patio Dining Set

Lark Manor Allye 8-Person Outdoor Dining Set

The 12 Best Patio Dining Sets to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (9)

What Stands Out

  • This eight-person dining set is sleek, cozy, and spacious, and it’s surprisingly affordable, given its capacity.

What Could Be Improved

  • It does best in semi-covered areas.

This Lark Manor nine-piece dining set is perfect for hosting a crowd. Best for big outdoor spaces, the set comes with a large dining table and eight comfy chairs. And though it looks sleek and stylish, it’s built to withstand the elements. The table is made of solid acacia wood, and while the chairs look like they’re made of woven rattan, they’re actually lined with weatherproof polyurethane. The chairs also come with plush foam cushions, which are water-resistant and easy to clean, thanks to their removable polyester covers.

The most impressive thing about this patio dining set? It comes at a very reasonable price given its size. So if you’ve been dreaming of an al fresco dining room that won’t break the bank, you can absolutely make it happen. The nine-piece set is cheaper than many options that seat fewer people. But to keep the furniture in tip-top shape, the brand recommends keeping the dining set in a semi-covered outdoor area—like under a pergola or inside a screened-in porch.

Price at time of publish: $900

Material: Acacia wood, synthetic rattan (polyurethane), polyester cushions | Table Size: 75 x 36 x 29 inches | Umbrella Hole: No

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Best Wrought Iron Patio Dining Set

Better Homes & Gardens Wrought Iron Patio Dining Set

The 12 Best Patio Dining Sets to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (10)

Our Ratings

What Stands Out

  • This set holds up to wind, rain, and sun, and it’s easy to move around.

What Could Be Improved

  • It isn’t as stylish as some of our other top picks.

If you want a patio dining set that wins on durability, this five-piece set from Better Homes & Gardens is tough to top. (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by Real Simple’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith.) It comes with a wrought iron table, four matching chairs, and four weather-resistant cushions. And when we tested it, it withstood everything from strong wind to scorching sun. The furniture never blew over or got uncomfortably hot, despite being made of metal. Its polyester-blend cushions did a great job at resisting moisture, only soaking through during heavy downpours and drying quickly when they did.

Though the dining set is sturdy, it isn’t tough to move around. It was surprisingly easy to assemble, taking us just an hour to piece together. During our testing period, this dining set proved incredibly comfortable, earning compliments from several of our friends. The set felt spacious and supportive, offering lots of legroom. And while it may not be quite as stylish as our best overall pick, it’s still a sleek and versatile dining set.

Price at time of publish: $600

Material: Wrought iron, polyester-blend cushions | Table Size: 42 x 42 x 27.25 inches | Umbrella Hole: Yes

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Best Wicker Patio Dining Set

Pottery Barn Cammeray All-Weather Wicker Patio Dining Set

The 12 Best Patio Dining Sets to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (14)

What Stands Out

  • It’s made of weather-resistant wicker, so it can withstand everything from scorching sun to heavy snow.

What Could Be Improved

  • All of the pieces are sold separately.

If you’re looking for a wicker patio dining set that's a bit more modern, we love this option from Pottery Barn. Made of all-weather wicker, this set is stylish, sturdy, and ready to accommodate up to six people for drinks or conversation and a meal. The tabletop is made from tempered glass and has a black steel frame, while the low-back chairs are made from weather-resistant wicker. You can get the chairs with or without arms, but both styles come with water-repellent cushions that have polyester slipcovers for durability. Unlike traditional wicker, this dining set will stand up to anything from snow in the winter to extreme heat in the summer. Just keep in mind that the table and chairs are all sold separately.

Price at time of publish: From $399

Material: All-weather wicker, tempered glass, polyester cushion slipcovers | Table Size: 38 x 73 x 30 inches | Umbrella Hole: Yes

Best Aluminum Patio Dining Set

Yardbird Outdoor Dining Set

The 12 Best Patio Dining Sets to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (15)

What Stands Out

  • Sturdy, spacious, and comfortable, this four-person dining set makes a great investment piece.

What Could Be Improved

  • The dining set is expensive, and to extend its life, you should cover it when you're not using it.

This set is the Goldilocks of patio dining furniture—it’s not too big, not too small, but just right. This round table is just large enough for about four people (maybe one or two more if you use smaller chairs) and has an umbrella hole so you and your guests or family can relax in the shade, even in the middle of the day. The set comes with four generously sized chairs with armrests for comfy lounging or dining. These chairs have a classic lattice pattern and come with Sunbrella-covered seat cushions with two fabric options: a simple greige shade or a striped neutral. We love Sunbrella, and many experts consider its fabrics to be among the best for outdoor use.

Constructed from sturdy aluminum, this patio set is powder-coated for durability that will stand up to the elements, as well as rust-resistant. Yardbird does suggest, however, that you cover your chairs and table when not in use for a longer period of time as that will preserve the finish and overall longevity. The chairs are also stackable, so you can easily store them away, too. If you're looking for something larger, you can also purchase a seven-piece or nine-piece set.

Price at time of publish: $2,460

Material: Aluminum, Sunbrella cushions | Table Size: 53 x 53 x 29 inches | Umbrella Hole: Yes

Best Teak Patio Dining Set

Outer Outdoor Dining Set

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What Stands Out

  • It’s sturdy and stylish, and it comes with a magnetic table cover that conveniently protects it from the elements.

What Could Be Improved

  • This dining set is the priciest option on our list.

Among the many features we love about this teak and aluminum set from Outer, the OuterShell cover is one of our favorites. The OuterShell is a handy magnetic cover that quickly covers your table when not in use so that the top of your table doesn’t get dirty. Even a day in between uses is long enough for your table to get dirty, between dust, pollen, and pollutants, so this is a genius, no-fuss feature.

We also love the combination of materials used in this set. The top is made of teak, which is not only a beautiful wood but also very popular for outdoor furniture, as it is weather-resistant and will stay at ambient temperature even on the hottest days. The frame is made from aluminum which also doesn’t overheat, and the stylish director’s chairs conveniently fold up for easy storing. The chairs are made from teak and weather- and mildew-resistant fabric, and this set comes in either white or gray. You can also purchase it as a nine-piece, 11-piece, or 13-piece set.

Price at time of publish: $6,700

Material: Teak, aluminum, polyester and PVC fabric | Table Size: 64.5 x 41 x 30 inches | Umbrella Hole: Yes

Best Modern Patio Dining Set

HAY Palissade Dining Set

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What Stands Out

  • This dining set is sleek, sturdy, and minimalist, and it comes in four colors and three configurations.

What Could Be Improved

  • The slatted metal dining set comes without seat cushions, so you’ll have to purchase them separately.

If you’re looking for a more minimalist patio dining set, this sleek set from HAY might be perfect for your outside space. Clean lines and a streamlined profile make this set a great choice for the modern design lover. It comes in four muted colorways—navy, olive green, gray, and iron red—making it one of the only sets on our list that comes in options other than white, brown, or black. The set includes four side chairs (without arms) and two dining chairs (with arms), so your table is ready for a dinner party for six (or less!). It also has two other dining option configurations to choose from: two long benches instead of the chairs (you can also buy the chairs separately if you want both), and a bistro option with two chairs and a much smaller table.

Despite having such a slim profile, this set is incredibly strong and made with powder-coated steel. One thing to note, however, if you don’t like the sensation of sitting on slatted metal—this set does not come with cushions, but they are available to purchase separately for a super-comfy seat.

Price at time of publish: $3,145

Material: Steel | Table Size: 35.5 x 67 x 29.5 inches | Umbrella Hole: No

Best Small Patio Dining Set

The Pioneer Woman Goldie Garden Bistro Set

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Our Ratings

  • Setup

    4.5/5

  • Design

    4/5

  • Durability

    4/5

  • Quality

    4/5

  • Value

    4.5/5

What Stands Out

  • This vibrant bistro set is small and sturdy, and it’s easy to move around your outdoor space.

What Could Be Improved

  • Though built for two, it’s most comfortable for small solo meals.

If you want to make the most of a small patio, this bistro set from The Pioneer Woman is a great option. Made of powder-coated aluminum, the dining set is small but mighty. During our testing period, it never showed signs of damage, fading, or rust, even when exposed to hot sun and heavy rain. And thanks to its intricate lattice work and vibrant teal color, it makes a striking addition to any outdoor space.

The dining set is small—the perfect size for coffee, snacks, and small breakfasts. And though it’s built for two, we found it most comfortable for solo dining. The furniture also had less heft than we expected. Despite being made of sturdy metal, the dining set is lightweight and easy to move around. Keep in mind that its chairs can only support 250 pounds apiece. Still, the dining set is a budget-friendly and space-efficient pick. And if you’re looking for an eye-catching bistro set, it definitely gets the job done.

Price at time of publish: $198

Material: Aluminum | Table Size: 23.6 x 23.6 inches | Umbrella Hole: Yes

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Best Bar-Height Patio Dining Set

Sol 72 Dining Set

The 12 Best Patio Dining Sets to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space (22)

What Stands Out

  • This extra-tall dining set comes with six bar stools, so you can flexibly sit or stand around it.

What Could Be Improved

  • The bar stools have low seat backs, so they’re not very supportive.

A bar- or counter-height outdoor table mimics the feel of dining at your favorite restaurant from the comfort of your own backyard. It’s also nice to have a taller table as friends can stand around the table with drinks and the tabletop will be the perfect height.

We love how this table has such a slim profile and doesn’t weigh too much, so you can easily move it around your outdoor space, depending on what layout you want. With six chairs, you can also utilize a couple of them at an outdoor bar if you have one. This also includes an umbrella hole, so you can provide shade for you or your guests. The frame of the chair and table are made of sturdy powder-coated steel, and the tabletop and chair seats are made from acacia wood. These chairs support your back, but if you’re someone who prefers taller backrests, this may not be the best option for you.

Price at time of publish: $500

Material: Acacia wood, steel | Table Size: 55 x 31.5 inches | Umbrella Hole: Yes

Final Verdict

The Walker Edison Delray 6-Piece Acacia Wood Outdoor Dining Set is our favorite patio dining set because it’s spacious, sturdy, and extremely versatile. During our tests, the furniture held up to heavy storms, strong winds, and general everyday use. We love that it comes with machine-washable seat cushions, too.

Our Testing Process

We tested four patio dining sets at home and thoroughly researched dozens more to come up with our list. Of those we tested, we evaluated them based on when they arrived, noting how they were packaged, how easy they were to move, and how long they took to assemble using the instructions and tools provided. Two weeks later, we assessed the patio dining sets again, noting how they held up to regular use and weather.

During our testing period, we used the patio dining sets for sitting, eating, napping, hosting friends, and more. We noted how sturdy, comfortable, and useful they proved during these activities. We also evaluated how well the dining sets held up to different forms of weather. When it rained, did they resist or absorb moisture, and how long did they take to dry? Were they lightweight enough to comfortably lift, but sturdy enough to resist the wind? Were they stain-resistant and easy to clean? Did they fade or absorb lots of heat in the sun? And did they show any signs of wear, warping, or damage during the testing period?

Using these insights, we evaluated each patio dining set for setup, design, durability, quality, and overall value.

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How to Shop for Patio Dining Sets Like a Pro

Size and Shape

Before buying a patio dining set, measure your outdoor space. And consider what you’ll use the set for: Do you need the furniture for solo dining or for entertaining a crowd? If your outdoor space is small, interior designer Rosanna Bassford recommends a round dining table. “You’ll want to leave at least 3 feet around the table to accommodate seating and walking,” she says.

If you’re an avid host, consider an extendable rectangular dining table, instead. Just be sure to leave several feet of breathing room on every side of the table. “Cramped dining is never a good idea,” interior designer Kirsten Conner says.

Seating Capacity

Many patio dining sets accommodate a specific number of people. (If the set comes with four chairs, it seats four.) But other dining sets are more flexible: They have expandable tables or versatile benches that can seat different groups, as needed. As you shop for patio dining sets, keep your hosting needs in mind. And remember that you can often use folding chairs to add more seating to your setup. “The good news is, when you host outdoors and it's casual, people can eat wherever they can perch,” Bassford says.

Material

When buying patio furniture, look for materials that are sturdy, weather-resistant, and easy to clean. Solid woods (like teak and acacia) are durable, warm, and stylish, but they’re heavy and require regular upkeep (like covering and pressure washing). While Bassford and Conner are fans of wood, they recommend powder-coated aluminum as a low-maintenance alternative, because it’s sturdy, lightweight, and easy to clean.

Bassford also likes concrete and plastic patio furniture, though both have pros and cons. While concrete is sleek and sturdy, it’s often heavy and hard to lift. And while plastic is lightweight, budget-friendly, and easy to clean, it degrades faster than other materials.

When it comes to cushions and fabrics, many designers have the same advice: Look for outdoor performance fabrics. “They’re UV-protectant, waterproof, and super easy to clean,” says interior designer Breegan Jane.

Conner recommends the brand Sunbrella, in particular. “If I am buying off-the-shelf [furniture], make sure the cushions are [made of] outdoor foam and Sunbrella [fabric],” she says. “Otherwise, you’ll get sun damage and need to replace [them].”

Features

There are a handful of features to pay attention to when shopping for patio dining sets. Some sets come with seat cushions, which is a plus if you want to get everything in one purchase. (Just look for cushions made of outdoor performance fabrics, like Sunbrella fabrics.) Some tables have built-in umbrella holes, although you can always add shade with freestanding umbrellas, instead. And if you want the flexibility to host groups of different sizes, Conner recommends buying an expandable dining table that comes with a removable leaf.

Questions You Might Ask

What kind of patio dining sets are the most durable?

The interior designers we spoke to agree: Wood, aluminum, and concrete patio dining sets are some of the most durable around. Solid woods, like teak and acacia, are sturdy, stylish, and weather-resistant, but they require regular upkeep. (You’ll have to cover and pressure wash them between seasons.) If you want something lower-maintenance, Bassford and Conner recommend powder-coated aluminum or concrete. And Conner and Jane swear by outdoor performance fabrics, like Sunbrella fabrics, for seat cushions and pillows.

Can patio dining sets stay out all year?

Patio dining sets can stay out all year, but you should keep them covered—especially if you live somewhere with harsh weather. “It may seem counterintuitive because outdoor furniture is made for the outdoors,” Bassford says. “But [covering the furniture will] make [it] last longer and cut down on maintenance.”

If you live somewhere cold, covering your furniture may not be enough. Conner recommends bringing it inside to protect it from the “freeze/thaw cycle.” And if it’s rainy, Bassford recommends bringing your cushions inside to keep them from getting soaked.

What are the best patio furniture materials for hot, sunny areas?

When decorating a sunny spot, look for furniture that won’t fade or get too hot in the sun. Bassford recommends wood furniture because it tends to stay cooler than heat-absorbing alternatives, like metal and plastic. And Jane recommends cushions and pillows lined with outdoor performance fabrics because they’re less likely to fade in the sun.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Hannah Baker and updated by Lindsey Lanquist, two Real Simple contributing writers with years of experience covering home and lifestyle products. To find the best patio dining sets, we tested four sets at home and evaluated dozens of others for size, style, seating capacity, durability, and overall value. For expert advice, we turned to three interior designers: Breegan Jane, Rosanna Bassford, and Kirsten Conner.

What Is Real Simple Selects?

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.

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