Restaurant Booths: Your Questions Answered

When it comes to setting up a restaurant, one of the first questions that pop up is seating. Restaurant booths are a popular choice for many establishments because of their comfort and efficient use of space. But what are the specifics? Here, we delve deep into the world of restaurant booths, answering all the pertinent questions one might have about them.

Do Restaurant Booths Require a Building Permit?

Whether you need a building permit for restaurant booths depends on the local regulations and the extent of the installation. For example:

• If you are just replacing or adding booths without any significant structural changes to the establishment, you often won't need a permit.
• If you're undertaking a significant renovation or altering the floorplan of the restaurant, a permit might be necessary.

Always check with your local municipality or building department to be sure.

Where to Buy Restaurant Booths?

There are several options when looking to purchase restaurant booths:

• Local Furniture Dealers: They often have a selection of commercial seating options.
• Specialized Restaurant Supply Stores: These stores cater specifically to restaurant needs and usually have a wide range of options.
• Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, WebstaurantStore, and other commercial furniture sites often have a variety of styles and price points.

• Custom Furniture Makers: If you're looking for a specific style or size, custom builders can craft booths tailored to your needs. 

How to Reupholster a Restaurant Booth?

Reupholstering can give old booths a fresh look. Here's a brief step-by-step:

• Remove the Old Upholstery: Carefully remove the staples or tacks holding the current material in place.
• Measure and Cut the New Fabric: Use the old upholstery as a template. Add a few inches to account for the edges and corners.
• Attach the New Fabric: Start by stapling or tacking one side, ensuring the material is taut. Continue around the booth, pulling the fabric tight as you go.
• Trim Excess: Once attached, trim any excess material.
• Reattach to Booth: If the seat or back was removed, reattach it to the booth frame

How Many People Fit in a Restaurant Booth?

The number of people that can fit in a restaurant booth depends on the size and style of the booth. Here's a general overview:

• Single Booths:
  • Designed for one side seating against a wall or a divider.
  • Typically seats 1 to 2 people.
• Double Booths:
  • Has seating on both sides.
  • Typically seats 2 to 4 people.
• Half-Circle or Curved Booths:
  • Curves around a table in a semi-circle.
  • Can typically seat 4 to 6 people, depending on the radius.
• Three-Quarter Circle Booths:
  • Encloses three-quarters of a round table.
  • Can typically seat 6 to 8 people.
• L-Shaped Booths:
  • These are corner booths that fit into a 90-degree corner.
  • Typically seat 4 to 5 people.
• Wall Benches:
  • These are elongated booths often used in conjunction with tables and chairs on the opposite side.
  • The number of people depends on the length, but a typical wall bench might seat 4 to 6 people with chairs on the opposite side.
• Custom Booths:
  • Some restaurants opt for custom-designed booths, either larger or smaller, tailored to their specific needs. The seating capacity will vary based on the design.

Remember, while you can squeeze more people into a booth, comfort is crucial for diners. It's always a good idea to go by the manufacturer's recommendations or, if possible, to test out the seating arrangements in practice to ensure diners have a comfortable experience.

Can a Service Dog Sit in a Booth at a Restaurant?

No, service dogs are not typically allowed to sit on booths in restaurants. They are trained to lie at their handler's feet or beside them without obstructing pathways. Establishments can address disruptions or safety concerns regarding the dog's placement.

As of January 2022, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides guidance on service animals. While the ADA allows service animals to accompany people with disabilities in all areas of a facility where the public is allowed, it doesn't specifically state where the animal should sit or stand. Typically, the behavior and placement of service dogs are based on their training and the needs of the handler. If you need the most recent and specific regulations or clarifications on this matter, I recommend checking the official ADA website or consulting with legal resources specific to your jurisdiction.