Today, we are writing this article from a café in Lisbon, Portugal. Let us take a moment to look around and talk about the art of elevated al fresco dining. What is it about the European approach that makes it feel so inviting?
Let’s be honest—we are somewhat new to the sport in the U.S. ‘Outdoor dining’ really took off during the height of the pandemic, when restaurants were forced to pivot, transforming streets, sidewalks, and parking lots into dining rooms overnight.
As this category continues to evolve, operators are becoming more thoughtful about the products they bring to the table. Enter EKOBO.
The Spanish company has turned the need for traditional melamine on its head by introducing a bamboo-fiber tabletop collection made from recycled bamboo chopstick waste. The result is a playful yet sophisticated range of dinnerware and serving pieces that elevate any al fresco experience.
It’s clear that outdoor dining is here to stay, and we could use some advice from our European partners.
“Operators increasingly want versatile tableware that moves between service areas: terrace to dining room, buffet to room service, rather than stocking separate inventories. There’s also a steady shift away from disposable, short-lifecycle products towards durable, reusable pieces that support the sustainability goals guests care about,” said Louis. “There’s a rising expectation that outdoor and casual settings still look designed; guests photograph the table, and operators know it. Those shifts point to the same thing: lightweight, safe, well-designed tableware that performs in any setting.”
Back in the U.S., there is at least one American brand that has mastered the space: Drinique.
“Our drinkware provides an elegant experience for our customers, emulating the look and feel of glass, without the cost and liability,” said Andrew Elliot, President of Drinique.
Behind the scenes, Drinique continues to focus on more sustainable manufacturing practices without compromising the look and durability customers expect.
At Singer Equipment Company, partnerships are about more than products. They are about working with manufacturers that bring fresh ideas and practical solutions to the hospitality industry.
“We love working with Singer because they are experts in tabletop and have an amazing list of top-notch customers,” said Elliot. “Few distributors have the ability to specify and seek out innovative products that will add value to their clientele.”
As we wrap up our time in Lisbon and head north to visit the Costa Nova factory (more on that next month), we watch locals linger at their tables along the cobblestone streets and one thing becomes clear: outdoor dining was never just about eating outside. Whether it’s a sidewalk in New York, a rooftop in Miami, or a café in Portugal, the goal remains the same: creating a space where guests want to slow down and stay awhile. Until next month, cheers.
We’ll be back in your feed with more tabletop news and insights next month. Until then, explore our latest work on @singertabletop or connect with our team at tabletop@singerequipment.com.
