I’ve been in this trade for over 30 years. I’ve carved, sanded, and assembled more chairs than I can count. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: the right chair can make or break the feel of a place. Especially in cafés and restaurants, where people don’t just come to eat—they come to sit, relax, talk, and feel comfortable. So if you're setting up or revamping your place, let me walk you through what really matters when it comes to choosing chairs.

Let the Space Speak — Reflect the Style of Your Place

First off, take a good look at where your place is located. That tells you a lot about what kind of style will fit. Got a café tucked in a historic part of town? Then don’t go with plastic or metal—stick with wood, maybe something rustic. But if you’re in a modern building with clean lines and glass everywhere, then something sleek and minimal will do the job better.

But don’t just match the surroundings—put your own mark on it. Bright colors, bold shapes, or unique materials... these are the little things that make people remember your place. Every chair should support the atmosphere you’re trying to create.

Comfort First — Don’t Underestimate Ergonomics

Now here’s something I always tell my customers: a chair isn’t just for looking at, it’s for sitting in. A guest might sit for 10 minutes, or they might stay an hour. If their back starts hurting halfway through a meal, guess what? They’re not coming back.

So go for ergonomic shapes—chairs with good lumbar support, proper seat depth, maybe even some padding. Especially in restaurants where people dine in large groups or linger for a while, comfort pays off in the long run. And a well-made, sturdy chair won’t just last years—it’ll save you money down the road.

Materials Matter — Choose What Works for You

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to materials. Wood has a warmth and charm that metal or plastic just can’t replicate. It fits in almost anywhere and never goes out of style. Metal chairs? Good for modern settings, easy to clean, strong as an ox. Plastic? Lightweight, easy to move, and can be surprisingly stylish if done right.

But think about your traffic. Got a high-turnover, busy place? You’ll need chairs that clean up easy and don’t stain. Look for materials with waterproof finishes or stain-resistant coatings. I always say—if it takes more than a wipe-down to keep it looking good, it’s not ideal for a bustling café.

Color & Design — Bring Out the Personality of the Place

Colors speak. Warm tones—reds, yellows, soft woods—make people feel cozy. Cooler colors—blues, greys, blacks—can bring out a sleek, upscale vibe. Pick colors that line up with what you want your customers to feel.

As for design, don’t be afraid to mix it up. High-back chairs give structure, low lounge-style chairs make the space feel relaxed. Round edges, sharp lines, curved backs—every shape gives off a different energy. Just make sure everything ties together into a coherent look.

Understand Your Crowd

Here’s something younger owners forget: you’re not just furnishing a space, you’re furnishing for people. Who comes into your place? Families with kids? Young students on laptops? Businesspeople having lunch meetings?

Families might need sturdier, wipeable chairs. Young people might like something more trendy or cozy. Professionals appreciate clean design and quiet comfort. If you plan to host larger groups, think ahead—chairs that can move easily and fit around grouped tables will make your life easier.

The Bottom Line

A good chair does more than support a person—it supports your whole business. The right style, the right comfort, the right build quality—it all adds up. Don’t treat your chair purchase like a last-minute decision. Chairs set the tone, they shape how long people stay, how they feel, and whether they come back.

If you want something that lasts, looks good, and makes your guests feel welcome—work with someone who knows their craft. And trust me, when you get the chairs right, the whole place just feels better.