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7 Best Dining Chairs

If there's one chair you use everyday, it's the dining chair. From breakfast to lunch to dinner, their uses don't stop there.  Snacks, work-from-home-ing, homework time, tea time, coffee time and chatting with guests — these chairs are all up in our business in all the different ways.
It makes sense that you want a pretty high-quality one then, right? We thought so — which is why we went down the rabbit hole of research, reviews and features so you don't have to. 

All you've got to do? Glance at the list of the top-tier candidates below. These ones made the cut by Living Spaces expert interior designer Jessica Harris. See her tips and more for the best dining chairs of 2024 — categorized by budget and styles — and find yourself happily stumbling upon the dining design of your dreams!

Best Overall

1. Cobbler

Best Features: - for a minimalist dining room table - faux leather

Size: 18.75"W x 21"D x 31.75"H

Why Jessica Loves It: "It's faux leather, baby! It's smooth, soft, and guilt-free. The black goes with everything, and the sleek legs hold up to all dining adventures."

Actual Customer Review: “Absolutely love these stools. The little detail on the edge is a nice boho rustic detail. Plus they are very comfortable” - Ann marir

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2. Biltmore

Best Features: - upholstered seat - wood legs - breakfast nook design - great for dinner parties

Size: 20"W x 25.5"D x 42"H

Why Jessica Loves It: "You can totally picture yourself sipping a cup of coffee here every morning. It's kind of perfect, because it shares all the features that make coffee great: it's smooth, warm and comforting."

Actual Customer Review: “These stools are so comfortable and well made. Great purchase!” - Bofam

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Best Vintage Look

3. Magnolia Home Harper Chimney Dining Side Chair

Best Feature: - curved back slats

Size: 21"W x 24"D x 40"H

Why Jessica Loves It: "Solid hardwood. The construction is family-proof, yet modern enough to make a kitchen look pulled-together."

Actual Customer Review: “These chairs are super comfortable surprisingly! They make my dining room look pretty.” - Anonymous

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4. Cobbler

Best Features: - Western-inspired silhouette

Size: 18.75"W x 21"D x 31.75"H

Why Jessica Loves It: "The simple, high-quality design makes it stand out amongst more detailed, trendy dining chairs. I love the low-profile look that still has a slight contour for hours of seated comfort."

Actual Customer Review: “Very nice chair, and good price. The color and quality also look good.” - CNAA

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Best High Back

5. Biltmore

Best Features: - tuft stitching

Size: 20"W x 25.5"D x 42"H

Why Jessica Loves It: "The deep button-tufting has such a luxurious look to it. It's like something that would literally be fit for a queen. Wooden legs balance out the look, so you can easily style it up or take it casual."

Actual Customer Review: “The chairs are extremely comfortable and I can now sit at the table for hours enjoying dinner and game nights with friends and family.” - Sally D

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6. Magnolia Home Harper Chimney Dining Side Chair

Best Feature: - curved back slats

Size: 21"W x 24"D x 40"H

Why Jessica Loves It: "The black finish and slight grain pattern fits in perfectly with farmhouse looks. But the style is secondary to the feel; the seat design's contour takes away the stuffiness from hard wood and allows for a place in which you can relax and call home."

Actual Customer Review: “Great chairs! The chairs are very well made and beautiful. So happy with my purchase.” - Sandie M

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Best Faux Leather

7. Cobbler

Best Features: - small space-friendly

Size: 18.75"W x 21"D x 31.75"H

Why Jessica Loves It: "One of the things you can't take away from just a picture is the contrast stitching. In person, it's a subtle, sophisticated touch that really brings personality."

Actual Customer Review: “Seats are well crafted. Quality stitching and materials.” - Michael 82

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Faux Leather Upholstery Dining Armchairs

What are the best dining chairs to buy?

The best dining chairs for you depend on your personal taste, budget, and requirements for durability and comfort. Popular choices often include solid wood chairs for their classic appeal and lasting build, upholstered chairs for added comfort, or metal chairs for a more modern and industrial look. Consider chairs that blend well with your dining table and fit your space ergonomically.

Dining + Living Room Rattan Chairs

Which chair is best for a dining table?

To choose the best chair for your dining table, look for one that complements the size and style of your table, matches the height requirements, and fits the aesthetic of your dining room. Ideally, there should be about 12 inches between the seat of the chair and the tabletop to ensure comfortable seating. The chair's width should also allow all diners to sit comfortably side by side without feeling cramped.

Dining Tables for Large Dining Areas

How can you tell a good quality dining chair?

Good quality dining chairs are characterized by their sturdy construction, durable materials, and fine craftsmanship. Check for solid joinery like dovetail or mortise-and-tenon instead of just glued or nailed pieces. The chairs should feel stable and not wobble when you sit on them. High-quality materials such as solid hardwoods or high-grade metal finishes are also indicators of better quality. For upholstered chairs, look for good padding and a tightly pulled fabric without any visible bunching or sagging.

Windsor Dining Room Chairs

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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.