Why Restaurants Should Think Twice Before Choosing Wooden Table Tops
In the world of restaurant design, the table is more than just a surface—it’s part of the experience. While wooden tabletops have long been favored for their warmth and character, they may not be the most practical choice for busy dining environments. At Empress Furniture, we believe in blending style with function. Here’s why we often recommend alternatives to solid wood for restaurants:
1. Wood Ages Quickly in Commercial Settings
Restaurants see heavy use—hot plates, spilled drinks, cutlery scratches, and cleaning chemicals all take a toll. Unlike in a home, where wear adds charm, in a restaurant, it can make tables look worn and unhygienic in just a few months.
2. Wood Is Sensitive to Moisture and Heat
Solid wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity and temperature. In restaurant settings—especially outdoor or semi-outdoor spaces—this leads to warping, cracking, or surface bubbling, which shortens the table’s lifespan.
3. Hygiene Challenges
Wood is porous. This means it can absorb liquids and harbor bacteria if not sealed properly or cleaned rigorously. In a setting where hygiene is paramount, especially post-pandemic, this can be a red flag for health inspectors and customers alike.
4. Higher Maintenance Costs
To keep wooden tables looking good, you’ll need regular resealing, polishing, or even sanding. Over time, this adds to your operational costs—both in labor and materials.
5. Better Alternatives Are Available
Modern laminates, compact boards, and stone-look surfaces now come in stunning wood finishes—without the hassle. They’re easier to clean, heat-resistant, scratch-resistant, and far more durable. Many of our restaurant clients have switched to these surfaces and never looked back.
6. Wood Can Be an Ethical Concern
Some solid wood comes from non-sustainable sources. At Empress Furniture, we prioritize materials that are both practical and environmentally responsible—such as engineered wood with certified sustainable cores and recyclable components.
7. Aesthetics Without the Trade-offs
The warmth and beauty of wood can still be achieved through well-designed, high-performance materials. You can have a wood-look tabletop that matches your brand aesthetic—without compromising on durability or hygiene.
Final Thoughts
Wooden tabletops might be beautiful, but in high-traffic, high-pressure restaurant settings, they can become more of a liability than an asset. At Empress Furniture, we offer a wide range of tabletop options that are built for the hospitality industry—stylish, sanitary, and sustainable.
Looking to refresh your space? Let’s help you design smart from the table up.
