Looking for the best bistro sets to dine outdoors this summer? Perfect for small gardens or for the corner of a larger outdoor space, bistro sets are the ideal buy for taking that morning coffee or first chilled glass of something nice in the evening. We've rounded up the best designs in a range of materials, from powder coated steel to wood and wicker. Whether yours is a country garden or urban courtyard, these are the very best bistro sets.
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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 (below) – well built but light, and coming in a range of colours. Read on to find out more and to see all our top picks.
1. RIVE DROITE BISTRO SET
The best bistro set
Specifications
Reasons to buy
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 wide choice of colours is 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. Argos Home Jasmine 2 Seater Metal Bistro Set with Cushions
The best metal bistro set
Specifications
Reasons to buy
If you love a traditional, wrought iron bistro set, you can't go wrong with this beautifully shaped set from Argos. 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. The cushions provided are very comfy and can be removed for washing.
Find more of the best metal garden furniture in our buyer's guide to complement this bistro set.
3. Charles Bentley 2-Seater Mosaic Bistro Set
The best mosaic bistro set
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
A classic, sturdy design from Charles Bentley, this set is perfect for those who prefer leaving their bistro set out in all seasons. Pictures don't do the mosaic pattern justice: it really comes into its own on a sunny patio, giving it a cool, Mediterranean feel.
What do we like about it?
Wrought iron is hard to beat for a really sturdy set, and this one feels reassuringly stable, if a little on the heavy side, with each chair weighing 6kg. The anti-rust coating means that you can leave it out as much as you want, although the chairs are foldable, should you want to put them away.
4. KETTLER RHS Harlow Carr Garden Bistro Table and Chairs Set
The best wicker bistro set
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
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 rounded shape, it's the sort of set that's suitable for a long dinner. It's sponge-clean only, and you can't get this set out in wet weather, so you'll need indoor space to keep it in during the winter.
Love this look? Find more of the best rattan garden furniture in our guide.
5. Greenhurst 2 Seater Hardwood Bistro Set with Grey Cushions
The best wooden bistro set
Specifications
Reasons to buy
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: acacia, which means it will last a good while. The cushions at the backrest and seat up the comfort level, and the folding chairs make it very easy to move around and out of the way in winter.
Find more of the best wooden garden furniture in our buyer's guide.
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