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Even if your space is limited, you still may wish to work a dining room table into your apartment layout. (Eating at the coffee table is fine, of course, but it isn’t for everyone!) Many apartments and smaller homes aren’t spacious enough to accommodate a dining room table that seats more than four, but the good news is that even if you’re majorly lacking in square footage, you don’t have to sacrifice on style. We’ve rounded up 15 of the best small dining room tables that seat two to four people, with picks for every budget and aesthetic. Shop our top favorite finds below.
Featured image from our interview with Diana Ryu by Teal Thomsen.
How to Find the Best Dining Table for Small Spaces
When shopping for a dining table whether in person or online, you want to come prepared with measurements. Having a sense of the maximum (and minimum) size of table your space can accommodate will help you efficiently narrow down options. There’s no point in swooning over a table that will overwhelm your home and distract from the lovely setup you’ve already created.
Reflect on Your Dining Habits and Lifestyle
Consider your lifestyle when weighing whether or not to buy a two-seater versus a four-person table. Just because you can fit a larger table in your space doesn’t mean it’s the most practical choice. You’ll want to consider factors including:
- Whether you live alone as opposed to with a partner, family members, or roommates
- Whether you like to entertain often or generally dine at home solo (or just with one other person)
- If you have any other goals for the available space on hand (maybe you envision it serving as a hybrid dining table and bar area, in which case, you’ll need to accommodate multiple pieces of furniture).
Establishing a clear sense of how you intend to use your dining space will put you in the right direction as you begin to shop.
Choose Your Shape
Next begs the question of square or rectangular tables versus round. This is truly a personal preference, but you will want to evaluate the other furniture pieces in your space when making a decision. For example, maybe you’re planning to carve out a dining nook within your living room. If you have lots of sharp, angular pieces in that space already, consider selecting a round dining table to break things up visually. This is a particularly smart approach in a small space—you don’t want things to look too clunky.
Make sure that everything within your room looks cohesive stylistically, too. If you have lots of curved furniture in your surrounding space, you may find that most square- or rectangle-shaped tables appear too traditional in style.
Small Dining Tables Under $250
Round White Marble and Black Metal Bistro Side Table
An affordable, classic looking piece, this marble bistro table is a must for anyone who appreciates the Parisian aesthetic or is looking to bring cafe vibes into their own home. Keep in mind that because this piece is made of real marble, it may patina over time, but some would argue that this quality only adds to its charm.
- Seats 2
- Much less expensive than similar designs
- Each table varies slightly due to the natural marble, resulting in a unique look
Hammis Round Drop Leaf Dining Table
A drop leaf dining table is a smart pick for those who may dine solo or with one other person on a day-to-day basis but want to have the option of hosting a couple of friends when the opportunity arises. This space-saving piece can open up to accommodate a group of four but functions nicely as a two-top when it isn’t fully expanded.
- Seats 2-4
- Space-saving and adaptable
- Can be pushed up in the corner when leaves aren’t out
Sonette 31.5” Pedestal Table Square Dining Table
If your aesthetic leans sleek and contemporary, a simple white option like this table is a no-brainer. It’s reminiscent of a classic mid-century piece but rings up at an extremely manageable price point. Based on the chairs you choose, you could also style a table like this one to lean eclectic, traditional, and beyond—the white color serves as the perfect blank canvas.
- Seats 4
- Sleek and simple
- Complements a range of interior styles
Nettie Mid-Century Modern Rectangular Dining Table
Here’s another mid-century-inspired option that also doesn’t break the bank. Warm up your home with a nice walnut tone (wood tones have come back with a bang!). And don’t think that all wooden furniture has to feel ultra heavy—this piece has clean lines and won’t appear too substantial for your small space.
- Seats 4
- Mid-century in style
- Offers warmth paired with clean lines
Gibun Round Glass Top Metal Base Dining Table
Go all in with a glam look when you purchase this glass and brass table. It’s an eye-catching piece that simultaneously takes up minimal visual space due to the glass component. If you outgrow it as a dining table, this piece would also look stylish placed in an entryway in a larger home.
- Seats 4
- Modern and minimalist
- Easy to restyle down the line
Small Dining Tables Under $400
Astrid Mid-Century Round Extendable Dining Table
Available in three shades—brown, natural, and black—this table will accommodate a range of spaces and is equipped with mid-century modern-inspired taper legs. It comes with a leaf extension that takes the size from 40 inches to 52 inches as needed, making it ideal for impromptu dinner parties.
- Seats 4
- Comes with leaf
- Versatile color offerings
Tripod Dining Table (30″)
A contemporary classic, this bistro table is perfect for those looking to carve out the smallest of dining nooks in a living room or kitchen. The walnut finish complements other West Elm offerings if you’re craving a cohesive vibe.
- Seats 3
- Contemporary shape
- Coordinates with other West Elm furniture
Miles Dining Table
Who says you can’t opt for a dining table that’s a bit funky? This one is full of personality thanks to its curved legs, but it isn’t too loud given that it’s still nice and neutral in color. Essentially, it’s the best of both worlds!
- Seats 3
- Eye-catching shape
- Subtle, neutral finish
Owen Bistro Table
If you feel like going bold, infuse a pop of color into your dining nook with one of these vibrant bistro tables. It’s also available in blue and white, if you’re feeling a bit more reserved. The industrial-style look will fit into your modern home wonderfully.
- Seats 2
- Available in three colorways
- Modern and industrial
Alexa-Mae Round Solid Wood Dining Table
If you’re a traditionalist who can’t resist the idea of creating a cozy, Nancy Meyers-inspired home, a table like this one is calling your name. It’s inviting no matter the colorway you opt for (you can choose among eight shades) and is a timeless buy.
- Seats 4
- Available in 8 colorways
- Timeless in style
Vena Oak Cafe Table
This taller table will have you feeling like you’re perched at your favorite restaurant or cafe without having to leave the house. It’s a go-to pick for anyone who likes to dine while sitting a bit higher up and would double as a fantastic work-from-home spot.
- Seats 2
- Restaurant-style high top
- Doubles as a great desk
Splurge-Worthy Small Dining Tables
Russo Round Fluted Wood Pedestal Dining Table
Fluted details are having a major moment as of late, and this dining table makes it easy to capitalize on this trend. Choose from a natural black or wooden finish that will add a high-end feel to your home.
- Seats 4
- Trend-forward design
- Made from natural materials
Quillen Marquetry Bistro Table
Pay a nod to Art Deco design with this bistro table that features a gorgeous herringbone design. The brass accents make it look even more luxe—buy some brass flatware that will complement the look and make setting the table a little more fun.
- Seats 2
- Art Deco inspired design
- Luxe brass accents
Willy Charcoal Brown Pedestal 32″ Bistro Table by Leanne Ford
If you prefer a more organic look, consider this textural bistro table that is also available in a larger dining size. The plaster-like material suits contemporary and transitional style spaces perfectly and is lighter in weight than traditional concrete.
- Seats 2
- Textural impact
- Also available as a dining table
Babylon 30″ Round Torrento Grey Marble Bistro Table
While certainly a splurge, this marble bistro table is a showstopper that you will treasure in your home for decades to come. Whether you select the gray, black, or green finish, you can expect the compliments to roll in whenever you host. In a larger home, the piece can also shine as an accent table between two living room chairs.
- Seats 2
- Can double as an accent table
- Available in three marble finishes
Selvig Bistro Table
This table is a great way to achieve a natural, laid-back look in your home. The reclaimed wood will complement rustic homes as well as organic modern spaces, while the sculptural shape keeps the table looking current and chic.
- Seats 4
- Natural and organic looking
- Contemporary sculptural shape