Get your garden ready for summer with these chic bistro sets

Posted on 10th June 2024

Who doesn’t love the charm of a traditional French bistro? Well, you can recreate the cosy Parisian-inspired ambience in your own garden with the help of a bistro set. Typically comprising a small, round table and two chairs, these solutions used to be limited to metal folding styles. But now, there’s an abundance of designs available for you to choose from.

The best bit? Bistro sets are incredibly versatile and you can use them no matter if you have a compact balcony or an acre of land. But how do you welcome them in your garden, I hear you ask? Tailor-made for two, these sets have a romantic allure, so you can start by designing a secluded spot for indulging in a charcuterie board and a glass of wine in the evening. “We love the intimacy offered by a bistro set,” says Danielle Le Vaillant, head of photography and film at Cox & Cox. “The unspoken romance of a quiet spot for coffee or a glass of wine that’s been designed just for two.”

Or, if you love hosting and need to accommodate additional seats for your guests, you can mix and match pieces. This offers you a practical solution for entertaining larger groups while also allowing you to design an outdoor area packed with personality.

Plus, as the latest bistro sets are foldable or lightweight, you can move them around your garden with ease, depending on your needs or the weather. You can place your solution on the patio, for example, under a tree to cool off in the shade, or near a beautiful flower bed. “These sets are often lightweight and easy to relocate at will, affording you greater flexibility than a more cumbersome sofa unit designed to stay put,” says Paul Cohen, commercial director at Lifestyle Garden.

Now, are you ready to get inspired? We have gathered the latest bistro sets to help you get your garden ready for summer entertaining…

Weaved chairs with cushions and matching small table with glass top. — Barolo set, £725, Cox & Cox.

Folding bistro sets

The most practical option is the metal foldable set, perfect for both gardens or small balconies. They come in a variety of styles and colourways, so you are all set to find a design to match your aesthetic. “Easy to tidy away at the end of an al fresco dinner party, folding bistro sets are a great option for those who want to utilise patios and verandas for multiple purposes throughout the warmer months and be able to switch between dining and lounging effortlessly,” advises Victoria Fletcher, senior buyer at Garden Trading. And, if you want to use your solution all year round, ensure you opt for a design with a waterproof coating, so it withstands the British weather.

Blue bistro set in a lavender field with two cups of coffee and some scones. — Blue metal bistro set, £155, Funky Chunky Furniture.

Black bistro set with four chairs in a garden with gravel path. — Large folding bistro table, £300, Lime Lace.

Comfy chairs

If you need something more comfortable than the classic bistro chair, a chunkier solution could be the perfect alternative for you. Often made from rattan or wood and equipped with custom-fitted plush cushions, this style allows you to enjoy the view or a good book for hours thanks to its snug feeling.

However, it’s worth noting that these chairs with matching coffee tables are lower to the ground than bistro sets. So, they are a better choice for lounging and snacking rather than enjoying a proper sit-down meal. And, remember that the cushions may need to be stored inside or in a waterproof box to ensure they last for years to come.

Two seats with cushions with a table by a pond in a garden. — Tropez lounge armchairs and coffee table, £2399, Bridgman.

Green bistro set with comfy cushions in a courtyard near a home. — Lauren set in green, £549, Atkin and Thyme.

Contemporary classic

Fancy enjoying afternoon tea in the garden? Since the love for more traditional designs has had a resurgence – thank you, Bridgerton – there has been a rise in bistro sets with intricate detailing and gorgeous metalwork. The latest outdoor furniture ideas blend modern aesthetics with regency elegance, and are available in a range of sizes and shades, with pastels and creams being the most popular.

Table and chairs in a conservatory with four chairs and place setting for dinner. — Viticcio garden table, £195, and Viticcio garden chair, £195, Oka.

Twin seats around a table in an English garden with gravel and pavement. — Rome cast aluminium 2-seat bistro set in Stone, £649, Bramblecrest.

Yellow table and chairs in a large floral garden with a cat. — Betty floral bistro set, £249, Dobbies.

Minimalist bistro sets

In contrast, if you prefer a more modern design, why not opt for a pared-back solution? “Minimalist designs with clean lines and neutral colours are popular, offering a contemporary look,” recommends Molly Jones, sales and marketing manager at Garden Street. Made from wood, metal or rattan, these sets are versatile and blend seamlessly into any garden design.

Outdoor bistro set on a deck near a house and trees. — Vig outdoor table, £590, and Vig dining chair, £295, Black by Design.

Black table with four chairs on a deck in a large garden. — Richmond dining set, £899.99, Gardenesque.

Black table with two chairs in a terrace opposite a garden. — Talenti Moon set in black, £784, Lagoon.

Statement designs

Lastly, if you love colour, why not brighten up your outdoors with a bistro set in a lively shade? The latest designs come in a wide range of hues – from rich red and daring pink to neon green. These vibrant solutions often feature unique shapes and even striking patterns, bringing serious style to any outdoor area.