Discover How To Create the Allure of a Parisian Sidewalk Café Using Outdoor Bistro Chairs

Turning your restaurant’s outdoor space into a Parisian café is possible no matter where you operate—all you need is an eye for style and the right furniture, including some classic French outdoor bistro chairs.

French bistro chairs offer a truly timeless look. Made with a woven seat traditionally sourced from rattan cane, these chairs are effortlessly chic, providing a pop of color and texture to your patio space. Even better, they’re comfortable, durable, and easy to clean, with a protective varnish that serves as an effective barrier against outdoor elements like rain and humidity.

And in terms of style? Bistro chairs top the list when it comes to commercial café furniture that can transport you right to a sidewalk in Paris. The design is ubiquitous with French sidewalk cafés and has been recognized as such for more than 100 years. In 1867, the Thonet brothers, inventors of these vintage café chairs, even won a gold medal at the Paris World Exposition for their coveted creation.

At Bistro Tables and Bases, we offer French bistro chairs in both aluminum and wrought iron so you can choose the right fit for your budget and your space. So how do they compare? Here are some of the key features to keep in mind when making your choice.

Aluminum Bistro Chairs

Aluminum outdoor chairs are a top choice for restaurants since they’re lightweight but sturdy, rust-resistant, and one of the most affordable options available. Aluminum is particularly ideal for high-traffic areas, being both easy to move around and easy to keep clean throughout the day. It’s also versatile in design, with the ability to offer a look that’s completely reminiscent of the original French bistro chair without the expense of real wood. (For a great example, see the Bordeaux chair, made with PVC tubular aluminum.)

Wrought Iron Bistro Chairs

Wrought iron bistro chairs like the café collection from Woodard offer a delicate, bistro-inspired look that’s weather-resistant and built to last. Strong and solid thanks to the heavy properties of wrought iron, these chairs may look delicate but they’re not going anywhere when a strong wind (or a strong dinner rush) comes through. And with proper care and maintenance, they’re guaranteed to look their best for years to come.

Which One is Right For You?

Bring the beauty of a French bistro to your community. Shop our selection of outdoor bistro furniture and contact us today for help choosing the perfect chairs for your restaurant’s patio space.