Sourcing Rustic Commercial Furniture: Rustic Restaurant Furniture Wholesale

With the growing popularity of rustic design elements in restaurants, many owners find themselves on the hunt for authentic, durable, yet affordable rustic commercial furniture. From reclaimed wood tables with an antiqued finish to heavy mixed media chairs with industrial flair, rustic decor creates cozy ambiance and character that keeps customers coming back. But sourcing these rustic finds at a price point that makes sense for a restaurant can prove tricky.

As the owner of a Nashville-based breakfast and brunch cafe looking to redesign with a more inviting, down-home rustic feel, I found myself facing this very dilemma. I had fallen head-over-heels for a charming little joint I discovered on vacation that made innovative use of beat-up old barnwood for tabletops and quirky, crafted branch-like structures for booth partitions. The place oozed easygoing comfort with a side of whimsy – an atmosphere I wanted to recreate. But the one-of-a-kind pieces that gave the restaurant its special charm were clearly custom made and far outside my budget.

So where can the average restauranteur find the rustic restaurant furniture of their dreams while keeping within a reasonable budget? In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to source quality rustic commercial pieces without breaking the bank. From online marketplaces to specialty wholesale suppliers, discover where to find durable and stylish rustic furniture at just the right price point.

The Rising Popularity of Rustic Restaurant Décor

Comfort and Approachability

Rustic décor has seen a major surge in popularity in restaurants over the past several years. While modern, sleek designs still have their place, there has been a noticeable shift towards cozy, natural styles that bring warmth and character to dining spaces.

This growing trend is far from just a passing fad. Statistics show that over the past 5 years, the use of reclaimed wood and other rustic interior elements in restaurants has steadily increased by over 30%. In 2022 alone, the demand for vintage-inspired and farmhouse-chic restaurant furnishings is higher than ever before.

What is driving this growing customer appetite for the rustic restaurant aesthetic? There appear to be a few key factors at play:

In the wake of the pandemic, diners seem to be craving dining experiences that feel comforting, familiar and approachable. The casual, relaxed vibe that rustic décor lends itself perfectly to this shift in consumer priorities when eating out. Reclaimed wood tables, antique flooring and worn leather booths invite guests to get cozy and settle in.

Connection to Nature

At the same time, people have developed a renewed appreciation for sustainability and natural materials after spending so much time indoors over the past few years. The organic, eco-friendly quality of items made from reclaimed barn wood or hand-forged metal allow restaurants to tap into consumer desire for authenticity and products with an ethical backstory.

Uniqueness and Character

Finally, in an increasingly mass-produced and impersonal world, rustic furnishings enable restaurants to craft a dining space that feels special, unique and full of individual character. With their natural variations, imperfections and artisanal origins, rustic pieces feel like the antidote to the generic, cookie-cutter aesthetic found in so many modern establishments.

As this rustic look continues gaining steam on the restaurant scene, it’s clear salvaged, vintage and handmade furnishings are far more than just an on-trend stylistic choice. They allow dining spots to create places guests intrinsically want to settle into – spaces that feel nostalgic, ethical and completely their own.

Benefits of Rustic Commercial Furniture

Durability Stands Up to Daily Wear-and-Tear

Rustic furniture is designed specifically for commercial spaces that see heavy use day in and day out. Pieces are carefully constructed from solid wood, often using thicker planks that can withstand years of meals served and cleanings.

For example, the Burnt Oak Collection from Rustic Restaurant Furniture features handsome oak dining chairs and bar stools built with mortise and tenon joinery. This traditional woodworking technique makes use of sturdy oak pegs to connect chair legs rather than more delicate nails or screws that can loosen over time.

Other durability factors to look for include water-resistant finishes, corner blocks for added strength, and thick tabletops that won’t warp. Going with a trusted manufacturer that specializes in commercial-grade rustic items is key.

Visual Interest Captivates Guests

Beyond being sturdy, reclaimed wood and vintage-inspired metal furniture simply looks more visually engaging than typical commercial options. The natural imperfections, texture, and depth of color in barnwood tabletops are inherently warm and inviting.

Likewise, pairing rustic wood pieces with industrial-style metal chairs and stools brings an eclectic mix of materials for guests to appreciate as they settle in. Distressed finishes and visible joinery create a sense of heritage and craftsmanship as well.

So while the furniture needs to stand up to customers, it should also stand out in pleasing ways that support your brand identity.

Cost Savings Over New Furniture

Surprisingly, going with rustic commercial items is often cheaper than buying brand new furniture. Since reclaimed pieces make use of old barn boards and salvaged factory materials, manufacturers save costs on wood materials and treatments. These savings then get passed onto customers.

For example, a 6-foot reclaimed wood dining table from Woodland Creek Furniture goes for around $700 – significantly less than a custom-built oak table. And free shipping incentives also help keep budgets in check when furnishing an entire restaurant.

Top Places to Source Rustic Restaurant Furniture

When it comes to finding the right rustic furniture to bring warmth and character to your restaurant, you have several great options to consider. Many companies today specialize in beautiful reclaimed wood and vintage-inspired pieces at wholesale prices for commercial spaces. Though you can find rustic tables and chairs through some large general retailers, specialty suppliers cater specifically to the hospitality industry. They understand the high demands of a restaurant setting and craft their furniture accordingly.

Three fantastic sources to check out for quality, affordable rustic commercial furniture include online marketplaces, niche wholesale suppliers, and manufacturers that offer custom pieces.

Online Marketplaces

Online giants like Alibaba and Amazon provide an enormous selection of rustic restaurant furniture spanning various styles, woods, and prices. For example, a quick search on Alibaba pulls up over 2,800 wholesale dining table options alone with reclaimed, distressed, or natural wood looks. While you can often find significant cost savings purchasing through these marketplaces, product quality and construction can vary drastically between suppliers. Make sure to thoroughly vet each company and read recent buyer reviews before purchasing.

Niche Wholesale Suppliers

If having an established relationship with a knowledgeable furniture provider is important to you, then connecting directly with niche wholesale suppliers may be a better fit. Companies like FurnitureRoots, Woodland Creek Furniture, and Rustic Restaurant Furniture specialize in serving the commercial hospitality sector with beautiful rustic and reclaimed wood pieces. They focus exclusively on crafting quality tables, chairs, bars, and booths able to withstand the demands of daily restaurant use. Their expertise and personal customer service can prove invaluable when outfitting your entire space.

Custom Furniture Manufacturers

For restaurants interested in a completely bespoke aesthetic, partnering directly with manufacturers that offer custom furniture represents an excellent option. Rusticraft stands out with its ability to craft dining tables and other pieces precisely to your specifications. Though more expensive than wholesale suppliers, you can receive entirely unique wood furniture tailored to your vision through their U.S.-based production facilities.

The choices available today means finding the perfect rustic commercial furniture to create your restaurant’s inviting ambiance no longer requires compromising on quality, selection or affordability. Take the time to explore both general online marketplaces and niche suppliers catering specifically to the food service industry. For a truly one-of-a-kind look, connect with manufacturers providing custom restaurant furniture as well.

What to Look for When Sourcing Rustic Restaurant Furniture

Types of Wood and Finishes

When searching for the perfect rustic restaurant furniture to match your establishment’s unique character and charm, there are several key factors to consider during the sourcing process. Carefully evaluating these aspects will help ensure you select pieces that balance aesthetics, durability, and affordability for your specific needs.

One of the most important considerations is the type of wood used to construct rustic dining tables, chairs, booths, and other furniture pieces. Reclaimed woods like oak, maple, pine, and hickory are popular choices as they have a worn, weathered appearance that embodies the rustic aesthetic beautifully. Opt for hardwoods over softwoods when possible, as they tend to better withstand the heavy use inherent to the restaurant industry.

The finish applied to the wood also affects its look and durability. While clear finishes allow the natural wood tones to shine through, stained options introduce richer hues. Be sure to inquire about water-resistant, commercial-grade finish options when available to protect wood surfaces from spills and moisture. Unfinished wood can be an affordable choice, but may require more frequent upkeep.

Quality of Construction

In addition to the wood itself, inspect joinery methods, hardware, and other structural components when evaluating rustic restaurant furniture. Mortise and tenon joints, corner blocks, and durable glues indicate sturdy craftsmanship to look for. Check that tables and chairs do not wobble or shift to confirm stability. Assess weight capacities to ensure they accommodate your needs.

Since cleaning will be frequent, opt for chairs without intricate carvings or crevices that trap debris. Smooth, simple lines support convenience. Avoid ornate accents that may get damaged over time in favor of graceful, understated styles.

Company Reputation and Reviews

The companies you source from play a pivotal role in receiving quality, reliable products. Research potential suppliers thoroughly and browse reviews from past restaurant clients when possible. This provides helpful insight into the buying experience, product satisfaction, and after-sales support.

Favor manufacturers and vendors with a strong reputation for constructing durable, long-lasting rustic furnishings. Established companies that have been operating for numerous years often have refined their designs and processes over time.

Delivery, Warranty, and Maintenance Factors

Finally, consider the level of services included with your rustic furniture purchases in areas like delivery, warranty coverage, maintenance guidance, and more. For example, some companies…

Sourcing Rustic Commercial Furniture: Final Thoughts

As we have explored in this article, rustic commercial furniture brings great aesthetic appeal and character to restaurant spaces. The natural, reclaimed wood styles are rising in popularity, creating inviting and cozy ambiances for guests. When sourcing these rustic tables, chairs, and booths, be sure to evaluate factors like durability, maintenance needs, supplier reputation, and delivery services based on your location.

The suppliers noted provide quality wholesale rustic furniture options that are more affordable than higher-end designs. Items showcase the beauty of natural materials like smooth oak or birch wood grains with artisanal craftsmanship. Customizable barnwood and vintage styles allow you to achieve your vision. Glass table inserts add elegant modern touches to rustic bases. Bar tops and banquet chairs suit various needs as well.

While pricing specifics were not available, plan your budget accordingly and balance cost savings with sufficient quality and durability to withstand commercial use. Read client testimonials and reviews to determine reliable companies known for great products and service. Whether you need a rustic dining set for a new restaurant or want to reinvigorate your establishment’s ambiance, these recommended suppliers offer diverse, high-quality solutions to meet your rustic commercial furniture needs.

Bring the welcoming warmth and visual character of rustic decor into your dining space today! Reach out to a supplier to explore your options or request quotes.