Regarding dining room furniture, you might compare buffets vs. servers vs. sideboards. While you can sometimes use these terms interchangeably, the pieces of furniture do have distinct characteristics. As experts in crafting Amish dining room tables and furniture, we will guide you through each piece and explore its role in your dining room.

What Is a Buffet?

A buffet is a long, low-storage cabinet made for your dining room. It has cabinets and drawers to hold dishes, serving ware, and table linens, keeping everything organized and accessible when needed. The top surface gives you plenty of space to prepare food during meals or parties. Buffets are sturdy and stylish, making them a great statement piece for your home. Some even come with a hutch if you need extra storage and display space. 

Design tip: Consider pairing a solid wood hutch buffet with a live-edge dining table. This combination can create a stunning mix of rustic charm and modern elegance in your dining room.

What Is a Sideboard?

A sideboard looks like a buffet but has higher legs, which make it more open and airy. People initially used it to store silverware and serving dishes, but today, you can use it anywhere in your home. It works well in your dining room, living room, or entryways. Sideboards usually have a sleek, modern look. Some include glass doors, open shelving, or built-in lighting to display your favorite pieces.

Design tip: Choose a sideboard made with Amish or Mennonite craftsmanship for a piece built to last.

What Is a Server?

A server is like a buffet but smaller and taller. It's perfect if you need storage but don't have much space. Servers usually have cabinets, drawers, and sometimes open shelves or wine racks, giving you a mix of storage and display options. 

The top surface is great for holding food, drinks, or decor. Servers are lighter and less bulky, so they fit easily in a smaller dining room or kitchen. There are unique Amish servers made from premium woods such as oak, maple, and cherry wood, combining tradition with exceptional craftsmanship.

Design tip: Pair a server with a pedestal dining table for a timeless look or a rectangular kitchen table if you need more space. This setup gives you extra storage while keeping everything within easy reach.

Buffet vs. Sideboard vs. Server: What's the Difference?

Size and function are the main differences between a sideboard, buffet, and server. 

Abuffet is long and low, providing plenty of storage space and a serving surface for your meals. 

Asideboard looks similar but usually has taller legs, giving it a lighter, more open feel. 

Aserver is the smallest, typically taller and narrower, making it a good choice if you have a smaller space.  Each piece adds storage and style, but the best option depends on your space and needs.

Buffet vs. Sideboard vs. Server: How to Choose The Right Piece 

Picking the right storage piece for your dining room comes down to space, function, and style. Each option has a unique purpose, so consider your needs before deciding.

When to Use a Buffet

A buffet is your go-to if you need extra storage and a serving surface for entertaining. These are lower to the ground, making them great for holding heavy dishware, linens, and serving trays. Buffets work well in:

• Formal dining rooms are available when you need extra space for plates, glasses, and silverware.

• Larger kitchens if you want added storage that complements your cabinetry.

• Entertaining spaces where your guests can serve themselves food and drinks.

When to Use a Sideboard

A sideboard works best as a versatile piece that can move between rooms. It's typically longer with taller legs, giving it an airy, open look that won't overwhelm smaller spaces. Sideboards work well in:

• Dining rooms: Available when you want storage without a bulky feel.

• Living rooms:Have stylish books, decor, or barware storage cabinets.

• Entryways to hold keys, mail, and seasonal decorations.

When to Use a Server

A server is a smaller, narrower option, perfect if you're short on space but still need some storage. It's taller than a buffet and often features drawers and open shelving. Servers work well in:

• Compact dining areas where a buffet or sideboard might feel too bulky.

• Breakfast nooks for storing your coffee essentials, placemats, or utensils.

• Multi-purpose spaces where you need a stylish, functional accent piece.

We invite you to visit our showroom and explore our dining room storage solutions collection. Let us help you create a dining space that is both beautiful and functional!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a sideboard and a buffet?

A sideboard has taller legs and a lighter look, making it more versatile for different rooms. A buffet is lower to the ground, has more storage, and is designed specifically for serving and storing dining essentials.

What is the difference between a sideboard and a server?

A larger sideboard offers more enclosed storage, while a server is more petite, often with open shelving or drawers, making it ideal for compact spaces or casual dining areas.

What is the difference between a sideboard and a console?

A sideboard is designed for storage and serving and is often placed in dining rooms. At the same time, a console table is slimmer, usually decorative, and better suited for hallways, entryways, or living rooms.

What is a buffet server used for?

A buffet server provides a dedicated surface for serving food during meals and extra storage for dishes, utensils, and linens in dining areas.