10 Modern Breakfast Nook Ideas You’ll Love
Updated: Jan. 31, 2024
A breakfast nook provides a cozy little spot for your morning cup of coffee, without feeling too stuffy or formal. Check out these inspiring ideas from a shopping expert.
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Few moments feel fancier than enjoying a cup of coffee in a corner booth. “Breakfast nook” is another name for these L-shaped dining sets. They’re also sometimes called dinettes, banquettes, dining nooks or salle à manger. Breakfast nooks are either custom-built or purchased at retailers like Wayfair, Walmart, Amazon and Pottery Barn. The best breakfast nook ideas incorporate storage and cozy seating, so they’re perfect for homes without a formal dining space.
Setting up one of these L-shaped dining sets in the corner of a kitchen is a fun way to fill up space or add extra seating. When it comes to styling a breakfast nook, they can be as decorated (or not) as you want them to be. Adding a few finishing touches like pendant lights, framed pictures and plants like TikTok user @vrajeeks does in the video below is a great way to inject personality into these peaceful spaces.
@vrajeeks we’re getting rid of the gray floors this summer and i cannot wait for how much it’ll elevate this whole space ❤️ #homedecor #breakfastnook #decoratewithme #amazonfurniturefinds #targetfurniturefinds #organicmodern #neutralhomedecor #coastaldecor
Are breakfasts nooks a good idea for small spaces?
Planning around a small kitchen isn’t always easy. However, editor and home improvement enthusiast Rebecca Wright-Brown notes that breakfast nooks can be tailored to fit in kitchen corners both big and small.
“A breakfast nook is a great option if you don’t have the space for a dedicated dining room,” says Wright-Brown. “It’s even better if the furniture you use for it can do double duty (e.g. the table top can work as extra prep space when you’re cooking, the tabletop has drawers that can serve as storage, etc.). This way you don’t have to sacrifice limited space for several pieces.”
Whether you have limited space or want someplace quiet to enjoy your morning coffee, a breakfast nook may be just the thing your kitchen needs. Elevate your home with the breakfast nook ideas below, featuring styles spanning everything from mid-century to modern farmhouse.
Pine Trestle Breakfast Nook
Use traditional breakfast nook ideas as inspiration with this pine trestle breakfast nook. Classic and simple to assemble, this intimate breakfast nook features a pine corner bench that’s easy for little ones to slide into. The opposite side offers an alfresco-style bench that can be dressed up with cushions and pillows for extra coziness.
Whether you own a coastal cottage or prefer modern farmhouse decor, there’s bound to be the perfect fit within the four different wood finishes listed.
Compact Table and Chair Set
Whether nestled in a breakfast nook or basement bar, this compact table and chair set adds a modern touch to any area. Small spaces are no match for this petite set. Curved backs on the chairs mean they slide flush against the table, saving space while not in use.
Plus, a bonus storage space for champagne or wine means brunch mimosas are always just a “pop” away.
Hidden Storage Breakfast Nook
One of the best breakfast nook ideas for small spaces is this hidden storage breakfast nook. Cleverly disguised as a slide-in bench and table set, this nook secretly offers plenty of storage space. Simply flip up the seat to reveal room for books, linens and other miscellaneous items.
This storage problem-solver comes in three gorgeous modern finishes that fit almost any space. Invest in a few seat cushions to make your new nook even cozier!
Metal Frame Bench Nook
Whether the kitchen is big or small, this metal frame bench nook is bound to fill the space nicely. At just under 50 inches in length and with heavy-duty powder-coated steel legs, the set supports up to four folks. When not in use, the benches slide under the table, making this the perfect small space dining set.
At well under $300, it’s worth snagging this one from Walmart in one of the two shades available.
Modern Dining Set
It’s not easy finding breakfast nook ideas that fit with existing mid-century modern furniture. Luckily, this dining set from Wayfair does. An L-shaped bench arrives with ample cozy padding, making it the perfect place to enjoy a latte while scrolling through your morning newsfeed.
Require more space during parties? Easy—the table extends using the hidden foldout leaf beneath the surface. Dress this two-piece set up with mid-century lighting and an eye-catching centerpiece for a one-of-a-kind breakfast nook!
Modular Upholstered Banquette Seating
If you already have a folding table in mind or don’t have the budget for a new round-top table, snag this modular banquette seating. This inviting corner bench is so soft you’ll sink into the generously cushioned seat and back, and the no-sag springs offer ample support. And when paired with a table, this pretty banquette bench makes any kitchen corner feel like a Parisian cafe.
Pedestal Dining Set
Modern and striking, this pedestal dining set steals the show. The tabletop’s gleaming white finish and faux leather bench bring a sophisticated touch. Sturdy metal frames support the table and bench, preventing wobbles and straining. Add a few smart lights above the nook—the glossy tabletop held up by eclectic Y-shaped support beautifully reflects light for additional ambiance.
Curved Banquette Seating
Looking for softer breakfast nook ideas? Consider this curved banquette seat. The gentle U-shaped bench bends elegantly around a round-top table, offering an inviting spot to enjoy a hearty breakfast. Kiln-dried engineered wood makes up the frame and base, adding additional structural integrity.
Better yet, this curved banquette comes in a wide variety of fabrics and colors, so it easily fits in with nearly any decor. There’s also the option to add an integrated charging station for devices!
Counter Height Dining Table Set
Not all breakfast nook ideas include corner seating. For those who prefer something a little taller, this counter-height table set may be up your alley. A durable wooden tabletop doubles as a prep surface for small spaces, and the included shelves on the side offer extra space for storage. Two cushioned barstools are included.
At 36 inches in both height and length, this table and chair set nestles up next to a counter or in the corner without sacrificing too much space.
Extendable Corner Dining Set
Serving a crowd? This extendable corner dining set seats up to six thanks to a sprawling corner banquette, a freestanding bench and one additional armless chair. Minimalistic wood legs and a pleasant gray upholstery look cozy without sacrificing quality. Spruce up the space with a houseplant centerpiece for a casual and comfortable breakfast nook idea.
