It's one of the most common complaints we hear in-store: customers love their view, but their deck railing keeps getting in the way of it. They can see a sliver of the lake, but not the dock, not the kids playing in the yard.
The good news is that this is an easy problem to solve. Counter-height and pub-height seating raise you a few extra inches, often just enough to clear a standard railing and get your view back. Here's how to figure out which height is right for your space.
What are Counter-Height and Pub-Height Chairs?
Counter-height and pub-height chairs are simply taller versions of standard dining chairs, designed to pair with taller tables. The names come from where you'd typically find this seating indoors. Counter height matches the height of a kitchen counter, while pub height, also called bar height, matches a standing bar top.
Outdoors, these heights serve a very practical purpose beyond style. Because a counter-height chair sits roughly 24 to 27 inches off the ground and a pub-height chair sits around 28 to 33 inches, both put you noticeably higher than a standard 16- to 19-inch dining chair, often high enough to see clean over a deck, dock, or balcony railing instead of staring straight at it.
Counter vs Bar Height Patio Furniture: Which Should You Choose?
Here’s how these two outdoor dining sets compare:
Feature | Counter Height | Bar/Pub Height |
Seat height | 24-27 inches (61-69 cm) | 28-33 inches (71-84 cm) |
Table height | 38 inches (96 cm) | 41 inches (104 cm) |
Best for | Smaller decks, casual dining, everyday use | Maximum sightlines, entertaining, standing-height gatherings |
Feel | Slightly more relaxed, dining-adjacent | More social, casual, bar-style |
Looking for a more detailed breakdown? Read our previous blog post about how to choose the best outdoor dining set for your Muskoka cottage.
Best Counter Height Dining Sets for 2026
If you want your outdoor dining area to double as a spot for casual entertaining, a counter-height set strikes the perfect balance between a formal dinner table and a standing bar area. When shopping for one, look for:
- Height and seating comfort: Pair the table with stools or chairs that have footrests, since dangling feet get uncomfortable during longer meals at this height.
- Group size: A 4-seat set works well for smaller patios and everyday use, while larger rectangular or square sets accommodate bigger gatherings without feeling like a formal dining table.
- Material: Cedar and poly-lumber options both hold up well outdoors, but poly-lumber requires less seasonal maintenance if you're not planning to stain or seal every year.
- Placement: Counter height works especially well near an outdoor kitchen, bar cart, or grilling area, since it creates a natural flow between cooking and socializing zones.
Counter height dining is a great middle ground for cottage owners who want their patio to work for both quick family meals and evening entertaining. Browse our full range of counter height dining sets to find a set that fits your space.
Best Pub Height Tables for 2026
For a more social, stand-and-mingle patio setup, pub-height tables are hard to beat. Keep these factors in mind when choosing one:
- Table shape: Round pub tables suit smaller groups and tighter patio corners, while square or rectangular sets work better for larger gatherings or dockside entertaining.
- Stool height: Pair your table with stools built specifically for pub height (usually 28–30 inches) rather than mismatched counter-height seating, which throws off the proportions and comfort.
- Use case: Pub height tables are ideal for drinks, appetizers, and casual hosting, but they're not the best fit if you're planning long, formal meals — a standard or counter height table suits that better.
- Material and finish: Look for weather-sealed wood or all-weather composite builds if the table will stay outside year-round rather than being packed away each winter.
A pub height table is one of the easiest ways to create a dedicated social zone on a patio or dock without adding a full second seating area. Explore our pub height tables and sets to find the right fit for your outdoor space.
Get Started Today
Not sure which height is right for your deck, dock, or balcony? That's exactly what our team is here for. Stop by Woodmill of Muskoka, located just south of Gravenhurst on Highway 11 or start shopping online now.
Have additional questions? We are happy to help. Call us or contact us through our website, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.