This is our edit of the best bistro sets for your garden. They will make dining al fresco a joy, they look great, their prices are brilliant – and they can be squeezed into the smallest of outdoor spaces, whether a courtyard garden, a small patio or even a balcony. We've rounded up the best bistro set designs in a range of materials, from powder coated steel to wood and wicker to cater to all tastes, so whether yours is a country garden or urban courtyard, you're bound to find something to suit. And because we have a clever pricing widget, you can be sure you're seeing the best prices today.
Find more of the best garden furniture in our dedicated buyer's guide.
- When you've chosen the best bistro set, check out our best sun loungers
1. Rive Droite bistro set
The best bistro set – this is the one we'd buy and there's a range of colours to choose from
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Reasons to buy
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We can't think of any garden this bistro set won't suit. The simple, slimline design will allow you add seating to even the smallest of patios.
Why do we like it?
This is the ultimate choice for ease of use and storage: it's lightweight enough to move around, easy to fold away and store, but the construction is sturdy enough not to feel flimsy or wobbly. The beautiful colours are a welcome bonus, as is the possibility to purchase cushions. This bistro set is weatherproof, too, so you can leave it out on a rainy day.
2. Rowlinson Havana Lattice Bistro Set
The best metal bistro set
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If you love a traditional, wrought iron bistro set, you can't go wrong with this beautifully shaped set from Rowlinson. Its delicate design will especially suit period homes.
What do we like about it?
The set looks traditional, but it has been expertly powder-coated to make it completely weatherproof, so you can leave this set out in wet weather. We like the on-trend minty green shade, too.
Find more of the best metal garden furniture in our buyer's guide to complement this bistro set.
3. Tice Bistro Set
Best bistro set for small spaces
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Reasons to buy
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The gorgeous, curved shapes of this bistro set will make a wonderful centrepiece on a small patio or balcony.
What do we like about it?
This bistro set is made from metal, but is delightfully light weight and easy to move around, with the chairs tucking in neatly underneath the oval-shaped table when not in use. We like how roomy the chairs feel despite the compact size, and the on-trend neutral colours. Bear in mind that this set isn't weatherproof and will need a furniture cover for when it rains.
4. Kettler Palma 2-Seater Round Garden Bistro Table & Chairs Set
The best wicker bistro set
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The refined design and craftsmanship of this bistro set makes it the perfect addition to a luxury garden design.
What do we like about it?
This is as luxurious as bistro sets get. In classic wicker weave and appealing shape, it's the sort of set that's suitable for a long dinner. The cushions are sponge-clean only, but they are showerproof, and the whole set can be left outside all year round, and just needs an annual clean with warm soapy water.
Love this look? Find more of the best rattan garden furniture in our guide.
5. John Lewis & Partners Venice Garden Bistro Set
The best wooden bistro set
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
For lovers of a simple, rustic style that can be folded away hassle-free, this bistro set is just the ticket. It'll make a great addition to country gardens.
What do we like about it?
This set is made from one of the best types of wood for garden furniture: eucalyptus, which means it will last a good while. The folding chairs make it very easy to move around and out of the way in winter. It's a shame there are no cushions provided, as these make a real difference to the comfort of this set.
Find more of the best wooden garden furniture in our buyer's guide.
What is the best bistro set?
Bistro sets come in a wide variety of materials and styles, so which one is the best one for your garden will be largely dependent on personal preference – and whether you have anywhere to store your bistro set during the winter.
Bulkier designs with larger chairs, made in natural materials such as wicker or rattan, will need to be stored indoors. Foldable designs with a weather-resistant coating, on the other hand, are more versatile.
For versatility and quality, our top pick is the from Garden Trading – well built but light, and coming in a range of colours. Read on to find out more and to see all our top picks.
More garden reading:
- Get more garden ideas at our dedicated page
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- Want to refresh the decking? Check out our 15 amazing decking ideas