When it comes to making the most of your outside space, the best bistro sets let you enjoy breakfast, coffee or cocktails in your garden or on your balcony without taking up too much room. Ever-popular on the continent, bistro sets typically comprise a couple of chairs and a small table that is ideal for a glass of wine and a small plate or two, encouraging you to sit back and relax.
Designs include rattan, wood and powder-coated metal forms, so you’re bound to find one to suit your space and style. Whether you favour compact and foldable or durable and weather-resistant designs, the best bistro sets comprise versatile pieces of garden furniture that you’ll enjoy using year after year.
After testing several sets, I’ve compiled a list of the top options. Arriving already assembled, this is an easy-to-enjoy bistro set from the outset. I love how simple it is to pop up and also fold away, as well as how lightweight it is to move about. Its eye-catching design makes it look like it’s been lifted straight from the streets of Paris, and it’s just calling for a glass of wine to be placed on it in the early evening sun.
Affordable, stylish and functional, this Ikea set has been one of the brand’s most popular products for a while, and for good reason. As well as being foldable, it’s made from natural acacia hardwood that’s been pre-treated with semi-transparent wood stain, which gives it a lovely finish. The smallest of details have been considered when it comes to this well-thought-out, quality set – there’s even an allen key included, to help you put everything together.
If comfort is key, this set is for you. The included padded cushions are very comfortable, and I must admit that I nodded off each time I lounged in one of these seats. It’s a sturdy bistro set, too, with the anthracite steel frame seeming like it will last a while. The accompanying table is a handy size – especially for enjoying a nice G&T in the sun – although it’s worth bearing in mind that because of the chairs’ relaxed tilt, this is not the best bistro set for enjoying al fresco dining.
