Whenever one thinks of bistro tables, Paris always comes to mind. After all, the French have singlehandedly made bistros as popular as they are, especially when it comes to patio furniture. One would be hard pressed to find a finely decorated home without a set as they can add charm and sophistication to any home environment. In fact, bistro furniture has become a very popular trend in recent years because of the atmosphere they imply. Sitting at a bistro table offers a wonderful opportunity to sit, relax, chat, have coffee, or have a quick bite in style with family or friends.
There has been speculation on the history of bistro tables that no one seems to agree with. One legend is that it came from Russian soldiers who occupied France in 1815 who yelled 鈥淏ystra!鈥?or 鈥淗urry鈥?to their French hosts. The most probable origin is that it was derived from the word 鈥渂istreau,鈥?a western France word to describe an innkeeper. Whatever the origin the bistro table caught on and has been going through style variations and makeovers ever since.
The first thing you will notice when sitting at a bistro, besides the culinary experience will undoubtedly be the table. Tables come in many styles such as wood, aluminum, and wicker but everyone seems to agree that the mosaic bistro table is the most attractive. Mosaic bistro tables add color and detail that only enhances the spirit of the bistro. They come in sizes 27鈥? 28鈥? and even 32鈥? The mosaic starts its history in Greece about the 4th century BC when wealthy Greeks had their floors tiled with colorful stones limited to the color black for the background and white for the figures. Eventually, this method was replaced with colorful glass. Unlike the Greek method of tiling, most mosaic tables are made of glazed ceramic, glass, marble, slate, and travertine tiles. There are even mosaic models that utilize colored Plexiglas for an extremely tight budget.
Mosaic bistro tables can last a lifetime if appropriate materials are used. The best material to pair with mosaic is wrought iron. Wrought iron can be as detailed or as plain as desired and if constructed properly can stand up to the elements. It also gets better with age.
Mosaic bistro tables are ideal for outdoor use but if you live in a region that can drop to subzero temperatures, then it is a good idea to bring it indoors. In fact, the mosaic table is one piece of furniture that can be used all year long. In addition, considering the tile colors it can go with almost any interior.
Investing in a mosaic does not have to cost a fortune but the old adage of 鈥測ou get what you pay for鈥?is appropriate here.
Finally, whatever you reason for owning one, a mosaic bistro table will add years of a style, relaxation, and pleasure.
