Bistro

The bistro’s traditionally small footprint means that space-saving furniture is key to fitting in enough covers. Often featuring old-world style, bistro design tends to favor traditional furniture materials like wood and iron. On patios, they often use a two-tone rattan chair style, common on the sidewalks of Paris.

But the bistro isn’t limited to French style. What defines a bistro is moderately priced home-style food and the availability of beer, wine, or cocktails. So a modern bistro’s decor could include many different styles of furniture.

Banquettes lined against the walls can help to maximize space, and tables should be kept just big enough for comfortable dining. And if you want to capture that old-world charm, a few tables on the sidewalk out front will be just the ticket.