14 Best Bar Stools for Kitchen Islands
Updated: Mar. 27, 2024
Need bar stools for your kitchen island? These stylish picks will instantly upgrade your space. We found the best bar stools at every price point!
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Looking to add a fun accent to your breakfast nook or basement bar? Shopping for the best bar stools for your kitchen, dining room or outdoor bistro is trickier than it seems. Choosing the right height, materials, special features and back style can make all the difference. The perfect bar stools offer different features depending on whether you’re pairing them with a kitchen island, a fixed stone countertop or dining table.
“Kitchen bar stools not only look good but are functional items that are essential for your home,” explains Anna Franklin, founder of Milwaukee-based interior design firm, Stone House Collective. “Kitchen island bar stools come in a variety of styles and sizes, are very durable and can even be great for kids for a quick breakfast before school. The wide availability of bar stools for kitchen islands makes them adaptable and flexible for any home, and finding a set that matches your aesthetic is simple.”
Our team went to work hunting down bar stools form top brands in an array of colors, price points, styles and materials. Whatever your preferred aesthetic, rest assured that we located the very best bar stools across the web after tireless research and review hunting.
Best Overall
Lyndon Swivel Bar Stool
Pros:
- Sleek and stylish
- Easy to assemble
- Comes in counter and bar heights
- Two finishes and three fabrics available
- Sturdy, built-to-last feel
- 180° swivel with return
- Levelers for adjusting and stabilizing
Cons:
- A bit heavy at over 30 pounds
When you’re looking for the best bar stool that’s both comfy and sturdy enough to outlast budget picks, spring for the Grandin Road Lyndon swivel bar stool. This editor-tested option is our best overall winner not only for the simple setup, but also its high quality materials and multiple color and fabric choices. Choose from counter or bar height to best fit any space, whether it’s a round dining table or kitchen island. The swivel aspect of the stool also naturally returns, making it a good pick for those with kids—especially since it’s a bit on the heavier side at over 30 pounds. However, the sleek and stylish look and adjustable levelers beneath the seat make it so worth the extra weight.
“I love the timeless look of these stools,” says Senior Shopping Editor, Katie Bandurski. “They’re incredibly easy to assemble—seriously, it only took me five minutes to screw the chair base onto the stool—and have a high-end look. As a new homeowner, I don’t know what my kitchen and bar areas will look like in five years. But I do know that these stools offer a sleek, contemporary look that will never go out of style. Plus, they’re incredibly sturdy and well made. I trust that they’ll last for years, even if I decide to redecorate!”
Best With Backs
Hollis Metal Upholstered Bar Stool
Pros:
- Over 130 fabric options to choose from
- Choice of black or brass legs
- Vintage art deco-inspired look
- Free swatches available
- Bottom and back cushions offer incredible comfort
- Sturdy construction
- Fully assembled
Cons:
- No free delivery option
- Custom made, so may take some time to arrive
Don’t settle for a seat that clashes with your vintage buffet table. Instead, opt for the cozy-yet-classy art deco-inspired Hollis bar stool. In addition to the sturdy backrest that adds an extra layer of comfort, we adore the choice of over 130 fabrics that fit with almost any aesthetic. Not sure which finish is best for your space? No worries—snag a few free swatches prior to purchasing.
In addition, the ultra comfy bottom and back cushions cradle your body while offering ample support. Because these stools are custom built as they’re ordered, they do take a little extra time to arrive. However, in our opinion it’s worth waiting for the perfect color choice and fully assembled white glove delivery.
Best Outdoor
French Bistro Aluminum Barstool
Pros:
- Won't splinter in -94°F to 176°F temperatures
- Antimicrobial materials prevent mold and mildew growth
- Stylish French bistro look
- Sturdy aluminum frame finished with a protective powdercoat
- Fully Assembled
Cons:
- Should be covered when not in use
Finding the best bar stools for outdoor use requires a few special considerations. Namely, look for materials that hold up well to the elements. This French Bistro aluminum bar stool by Frontgate offers equal parts durability and style thanks to a sturdy aluminum frame that’s finished with a protective powder coating. Apart from the beautiful bistro look that lends itself well to al fresco dining, the barstool also comes in five neutral and jewel tones that allows it to blend seamlessly with your favorite Amazon patio furniture.
Because it arrives fully assembled, it takes seconds to set up. Unlike similar styles from other brands, the antimicrobial wicker materials are incredibly durable and won’t splinter or mold in extreme temperatures. That said, always remember to keep them covered when not in use so they look just as lovely each summer season.
Best Swivel
Fortville Swivel Stool
Pros:
- Sturdy build that stays in place while swiveling
- Sized perfectly for smaller kitchen areas
- Crafted from solid rubberwood, rather than particle board
- Comes in six shades and two heights
- Has footrest
Cons:
- Assembly required
A swivel stool is the perfect complement to one of the best kitchen table sets, but it’s important to find an option that’s sturdy as it pivots. That’s why we’re smitten with the well-reviewed Fortville swivel stool. Despite the low price point, this pretty swivel stool offers solid rubberwood construction that stays put as you move to and fro.
At just under 19 inches across, it’s small enough to slide into smaller kitchens. A choice of two heights help this pick effortlessly pull together kitchens, bistro tables or basement bars. Whether you’re going for a farmhouse look or prefer modern decor, the neutral color options and additional footrest give this pick an edge on competitors.
Best Black
Faro Bar Stool
Pros:
- Timeless, classic silhouette
- Made with FSC-certified wood
- Contract grade construction
- Easy to wipe clean
- Wide saddle seat
- Solid ash wood materials
Cons:
- Pricier than some of the other options
When it comes to the best stools for kitchen island set ups, black is back and brighter than ever. The always-on-trend neutral adds an updated touch to all-white kitchens. The color also coordinates well with existing black accent lighting, cabinet hardware and bold hues.
The Faro bar stool comes with a classic spindle back. It offers a rich black ash wood frame with a wide saddle seat. While it’s a bit pricier than other options, the FSC-certified wood and contract grade construction ensures that it’ll last through years of daily use.
Best Modern
Forum Modern Bar Stool
Pros:
- Sleek modern design works with most decor styles
- Comes in a set of two
- Simple, fast assembly
- Easy to clean acrylic and metal construction
- Plastic leg glides protect flooring
- Low profile bucket seat fits well in small spaces
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Metal base painted to look like wood
- A bit on the heavy side at just over 28 pounds
If you’re looking for modern kitchen bar stools that are truly versatile, these Forum stools from AllModern are just the ticket. This set of two bar stools have offer a sturdy iron frame that’s painted to look like wood, bringing timeless style. A bucket-style seat and three neutral shades help this mod seat stay current as the years tick by.
The style may be contemporary, but because the bucket-style seat is a nod to vintage styles, they work well with most kitchen designs and bar carts. In addition, the plastic glides on the feet and easy-to-clean acrylic material makes this one a shoo-in for families with kids.
Best Wooden
Sharman Solid Wood Stool
Pros:
- Traditional saddleback style
- Crafted from solid wood
- Comes in a two-piece set
- 250 pound weight capacity
- Easy to assemble
- Lightweight
- 12 color options
Cons:
- Some may find lack of cushion uncomfortable
Give your kitchen a little bit of country flair with these wooden bar stools. “For a wooden bar stool, go for straight, modern lines that are in right now,” says Franklin, who is known for her firm’s show-stopping kitchens. “Find something with high-quality wood and other materials for the longevity of a wooden piece.”
Each solid wood bar stool comfortably holds up to 250 pounds. Plus, the molded wooden seat is an additional mark of better craftsmanship and something you would be hard-pressed to find on lower-quality pieces. Because each two-piece set comes in 12 different wood finishes, it’s easy to find something that blends seamlessly with your bar cabinet.
Best Set of Four
Adjustable Swivel Barstools
Pros:
- Chrome steel base has a rubber ring to prevent slipping and floor damage
- Stylish PU cushioned seat is easy to clean
- Adjustable height
- 360 degree swivel
- Easy assembly
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Limited color options
These adjustable swivel stools come in a set of four and offer a rich black or creamy white upholstery accented with metal hardware. They hold up to 330 pounds each and can rotate 360 degrees, making them the perfect pick for folks looking for a swivel seat. The adjustable height means they can work for both counters and bars, yet each one is still light enough to move when it’s time to mop.
Easy assembly and a lightweight-yet-sturdy feel round out these stylish faux leather stools, and the chrome steel base is wide enough to keep them steady. Plus, the bottom of each base comes with a rubber ring for added stability, which also prevents floor damage.
Best Leather
Pottery Barn Classic Leather Stool
Pros:
- Uses top grain aniline-dyed leather
- Made from kiln-dried hardwood
- Choice of bar or counter heights
- More than 25 color choices
- Three different finish options
- Contract grade materials
Cons:
- Must be careful while cleaning to keep the leather's integrity
Add a dose of sophisticated mid-century modern charm in an instant. These leather bar stools from Pottery Barn pair marvelously with a vintage-feeling kitchen, dining room chandeliers, wooden kitchen island carts and other accents. Each leather color—and there are more than 25 options—uses a top grain aniline-dyed fabric.
Three different leg finishes and contract-grade kiln-dried hardwood round out this pick. Because the leather is real rather than a faux option, it does require a bit more work to maintain. However, it’s well worth it to keep them looking like new. Leather is one of our favorite materials for the best dining chairs, too.
Best Metal
Colombe Metal Leg Bar Stool
Pros:
- Modern and minimalistic metal legs
- Nine different color options available
- Comes in both counter and bar heights
- Plush, cozy seat
- Glides easily across the floor
Cons:
- Very lightweight
“Metal” doesn’t have to mean “uncomfortable.” The industrial-chic design of these classy metal bar stools show up in a dazzling assortment of nine colors, ranging from basic white to a bold, fiery red. Different fabric options include a plush boucle and soft velvet. Or, keep it simple and modern with an ivory linen seat.
They’re also a great find for those who prefer backless bar stools and minimal cleaning—the sturdy metal framework wipes down easily. It’s also small and lightweight, making it the ideal pairing with small space dining tables.
Best Rattan
Avalon Rattan Swivel Bar Stool
Pros:
- Eye-catching 70s rattan style
- Available in both bar and counter heights
- Woven and shaped by hand
- Swivel seat
Cons:
- Pricey
Bring a vintage vibe to any dining table set with these rattan bar and counter stools. Rattan offers a quick escape to the tropics (even if you’re in a chilly climate) and is a trend-proof option you’ll love showing off for years to come. These rattan bar stools offer a robust counter seating option thanks to their 300-pound weight limit and quality hand-shaped rattan-style wicker construction.
Rattan is also one of the 1980s decor trends that’s coming back stronger than ever. “I have definitely seen an increase in interest for rattan pieces lately,” shares Franklin. “I attribute that to the current trend of incorporating a natural, organic style into your space. Rattan is fun to style in a space because it provides character and a fresh texture that you typically cannot achieve with something like metal or solid wood.”
Best White
Diamondback Solid Wood Stool
Pros:
- Classic cottage Americana look
- Hand-rubbed finish
- Assembly tools included
- Contoured seat and shaped back for added comfort
- Inexpensive; comes in a set of two
Cons:
- Rather lightweight
Your home will look and feel like a catalog-worthy statement when you display these wooden white counter and bar stools from Wayfair. The kitchen bar stools come in a creamy color that blends beautifully with cognac-colored furniture and stone counters.
The finish is hand-rubbed for a fancier look, and the choice of both counter and bar heights makes it an excellent choice for most spaces. In addition, a contoured seat offers a cozier spot to work from home or enjoy breakfast. The best part? These inexpensive stools include all assembly tools.
Best Wicker
Slope Indoor and Outdoor Bar Stools
Pros:
- Rated for both indoor and outdoor use
- Made from handwoven all-weather wicker
- Powder-coated stainless steel frame
- Plastic glides on bottom of base
- White glove delivery available
Cons:
- Limited color options
Wicker is back, baby! Celebrate the patio furniture-inspired woven look with these fabulous wicker bar stools. Rated for both indoor and outdoor use, these handwoven all-weather wicker chairs bring a beachy vibe to any space. While the seat is woven, the base is a sturdy steel frame that’s powder coated for longevity.
We appreciate the option for white glove delivery, though there’s no assembly needed for these classy seats. In addition, plastic glides on the bottom of the stools protect floors from scratches and scuffs. Nifty! Don’t sleep on the best outdoor tables, either!
Best Farmhouse
Hinckley Bar & Counter Stool
Pros:
- TImeless French countryside look
- Uses 100% linen upholstery
- Built-in footrest for added comfort
- Backless design fits almost anywhere
- Arrives fully assembled
Cons:
- No choice of color
Channel rustic farmhouse vibes with the addition of a couple rustic bar stools. These wood-based bar stools for kitchen islands feature padded seats and counter or bar height options that tuck neatly away below most kitchen islands and countertops.
While there’s only one color choice, the distressed French countryside look will certainly suit your farmhouse-style kitchen or Pioneer Woman collection. Plus, 100% linen upholstery, a built-in footrest and zero assembly required make this pick one of our favorites of the bunch.
What to Look for When Buying Bar Stools
Franklin suggests focusing on a few main features to pick the best stools to spruce up small kitchens, average-size eating spaces and even the most expansive showpiece-style eat-ins. She says it’s important to figure out the right height for your kitchen island or countertops.
Then, find sturdy materials and high-quality construction to hold up to the most-used room in the house. You’ll also want to think about who will be using your kitchen bar stools the most to decipher the importance of things like weight capacity and stain resistance.
Why You Should Trust Us
As experts in the spending space, the Taste of Home shopping team takes our time when finding the best products. We only recommend products we would buy ourselves. For this piece, our expert team aimed to find picks for all different aesthetics and uses across a range of price points. Our goal is for everyone to find the best bar stool that fits their kitchen and lifestyle.
How We Found the Best Bar Stools
We started our search for the best bar stools by looking at top-selling options from our readers’ favorite brands. From there, we narrowed down the list to over a dozen options that fit a range of styles and price points. During our hunt for the best bar stools, we weighed a number of criteria in order for each pick to make the list. Considerations include the following:
- Price and value compared to cost
- Material quality
- Number of positive reviews
- Firsthand experience
- Brand reliability
- Warranties
- Shipping
FAQs
What is normal bar stool seat height?
Typically, counter height stools (meant for kitchen counters and kitchen islands) average around 24 inches or shorter from the floor to the seat. Bar stools (meant for bars, bistros and bar tables) average at around a 29 inch seat height and above. While some extra-tall bars require slightly taller stools, these numbers are a good rule of thumb for most kitchens and dining spaces.
What material is best for a bar stool?
While material largely depends on style—leather, wood, metal, wicker, rattan and velvet are popular options—it’s also important to consider things like longevity and stain-resistance. “I recommend finding bar stools with durable, performance-grade fabrics. This makes them easier to clean, which is important in a high-traffic spot such as a kitchen or eating area,” says Franklin.
How do you know what size bar stool you need?
We recommend allowing for at least 10 inches of space from the top of the stool to the underside of the bar or counter. To find this number, first begin by measuring the underside of your counter or bar to the floor. Then, subtract 10 inches. This number is a good guideline for the maximum size you should look for. Some folks prefer a little more space, so be sure to think about who will be using the bar stools and the type of look and feel you’re going for. Speaking of space, we love saving it with an extendable dining table or a smart kitchen storage cabinet.
Originally Published: March 27, 2024
