15 Breakfast Bar Design Ideas

15 Breakfast Bar Design Ideas

by — Kari Apted
Published on June 14, 2021
Updated on March 18, 2025

“Life, within doors, has few pleasanter prospects than a neatly-arranged and well-provisioned breakfast table.” – Nathaniel Hawthorne, The House of the Seven Gables

A modern take on the breakfast nook, today’s breakfast bar ideas have reinvented where people consume the most important meal of the day.

A breakfast bar can also provide additional kitchen storage and workspace. It’s often the most popular place in the house for families and guests to linger over a light meal any time of day.

We’ve curated an impressive collection of some of the best breakfast bar ideas around. Take a look and gain inspiration for creating your own kitchen breakfast bar haven.

1. Maximize Space with Integrated Counter Bars

You can make a breakfast bar by adding a 10-to-12-inch overhang to an existing kitchen counter.

Luxurious kitchen with a glass breakfast bar attached to the island, featuring under-lighting, wooden cabinetry, and modern seating — Source: @jockimo_glass via Instagram

Modern kitchen with a sleek black breakfast bar attached to the island, complemented by dark barstools, indoor plants, and natural light — Source: @lucystone80 via Instagram

Sleek kitchen with a dark breakfast bar attached to the island, featuring illuminated storage, modern barstools, and stylish table settings — Source: @onixliving via Instagram

As shown in the following video, you can also build a structure on the back side of an existing kitchen cabinet and countertop.

While this is a lengthy video series, it will help you see if your DIY skills are strong enough to tackle this project:

If you have room, integrate a breakfast bar into a kitchen island plan. For an eye-catching breakfast bar, make the countertop a contrast to the rest of the kitchen’s surface materials. For example, use a different color of marble or even butcher block. Tuck a few barstools under the countertop and you have the perfect place for casual dining.

2. Choose Perfect Stools for Your Bar

An essential part of any breakfast bar, finding the perfect bar stool may seem elusive. Because your family and friends are likely to use this area more than your dining table, comfort should be your first consideration.

A cushioned and upholstered stool is usually more comfy than wooden bar stools. However, if you have small children, you may prefer the easy cleanability of a hard surface.

Cozy kitchen with a wooden breakfast bar, brown quilted barstools, and autumn decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere — Source: @beckshomeandlife via Instagram

If space is an issue, choose backless bar stools so they can fully tuck under the bar. That way your walkway remains completely clear. While you want your barstools to be sturdy, check their weight before purchasing. Some can be surprisingly heavy, making it difficult for small children or the elderly to slide them in and out.

3. Get Creative with Corner Bar Designs

If you think you don’t have room to make your breakfast bar ideas come to life, look in the corner. Any dining room or open kitchen corner can be turned into a breakfast bar with the addition of a simple shelf.

Install a 12” deep breakfast bar shelf between 40 and 42 inches above the floor, or whatever size fits into your designated corner.

Elegant corner kitchen with a white round breakfast bar, marble walls, grey cabinetry, and large windows bringing in natural light — Source: @demodesign_wnetrza via Instagram

Compact kitchen with a corner breakfast bar, grey barstools, white subway tiles, and a cozy, modern aesthetic — Source: @home_at_wilmot_gardens via Instagram

Minimalist corner breakfast bar with a wooden countertop, black barstools, and a large Roman numeral wall clock for a modern touch — Source: @homeonboulevard via Instagram

Stylish corner breakfast bar with a white floating tabletop, black stools, dark walls, and patterned tile flooring for a bold, modern look — Source: @hourfirst via Instagram

Cozy corner breakfast bar with a sleek white floating tabletop, modern black and white barstools, and decorative accents for a stylish touch — Source: @houseno_24 via Instagram

Two gray bar stools at a dark wooden counter, with a potted plant on a tray, against a white brick wall — Source: @thehouseproudmom via Instagram

Stylish corner breakfast bar in a modern black-and-white living space, featuring barstools, built-in shelves, and lush green plants — Source: @thelittlegrassmerehome.no3 via Instagram

A fold-down kitchen bar is another option when space is exceptionally tight. Purchase folding wooden stools and you have a “Murphy” dining space that can be put up and stowed away as needed. Include a light fixture that illuminates the worktop, as corners tend to be dark.

4. Explore Cutout and Half-Wall Ideas

The front side of a wall cutout is a great place to locate a functional kitchen bar. Park a freestanding kitchen island in front of the cutout and slide bar stools beneath.

You can also hire a builder to install a shelf that extends through the cutout and into the living room or dining room 10 to 12 inches. The extra barstool seating will be welcome the next time you entertain.

Small bar area with two black and white stools, wooden table with chairs in dining area, and a vase of flowers on the table — Source: @hardwoodlumberco via Instagram

Three gray bar stools with metal legs at a modern kitchen counter, featuring sleek cabinetry and a bowl of bananas — Source: @homebycullen via Instagram

Charming kitchen with a half-wall breakfast bar, wooden stools, soft blue cabinetry, and pendant lighting for a cozy, classic feel — Source: @laurengrantdesign via Instagram

Rustic farmhouse-style breakfast bar with a wood countertop, white shiplap half-wall, industrial barstools, and black pendant lighting — Source: @vernonliving via Instagram

If you have a half wall in your dining room or kitchen area, its top is another great location for a raised breakfast bar. Build it up if you need to reach the standard 40” to 42” bar height.

Adding a countertop to your half wall multiplies your available counter space, making additional room for a coffee maker or other small appliances.

5. Embrace Rustic Charm with Farmhouse Bars

Turn a kitchen island into a farmhouse breakfast bar with the addition of shiplap and a butcher block countertop. Shaker cabinets work well as part of a farmhouse breakfast bar island. Paint the island white, black or a muted, earthy pastel to keep true to farmhouse style.

Rustic farmhouse breakfast bar with a corrugated metal island, wooden countertops, vintage bucket pendant lights, and industrial-style barstools — Source: @brownies_forever_farmhouse via Instagram

Bright farmhouse breakfast bar with a white shiplap island, warm wood countertops, leather barstools, open shelving, and rustic lantern lighting — Source: @cottageontupeloridge via Instagram

Cozy farmhouse kitchen with a white island breakfast bar, wooden countertop, black metal barstools, and rustic decor for a warm, inviting feel — Source: @farmhouse507 via Instagram

Rustic farmhouse breakfast bar with a white shiplap island, natural wood cabinetry, granite countertops, and black metal barstools for a cozy feel — Source: @just.another.farmhouse via Instagram

Bright farmhouse kitchen with a large gray island breakfast bar, white quartz countertops, wooden barstools, and pendant lighting for a modern touch — Source: @medallioncabinetry via Instagram

Rustic farmhouse kitchen with a white island breakfast bar, wooden accents, industrial barstools, open shelving, and black pendant lighting — Source: @murraymanor103 via Instagram

Modern farmhouse kitchen with a white shiplap island breakfast bar, wooden barstools, glass pendant lights, and dark cabinetry for contrast — Source: @redbarninspiredfarmhouse via Instagram

Warm farmhouse kitchen with a granite breakfast bar, black cross-back barstools, white cabinetry, brick backsplash, and glass pendant lighting — Source: @thesierrashome via Instagram

Charming farmhouse kitchen with a wooden breakfast bar, open shelving, rustic barstools, woven pendant lights, and soft neutral tones — Source: @vintage4you via Instagram

Rustic farmhouse breakfast bar with a weathered wood countertop, corrugated metal base, wooden barstools, and vintage decor for a cozy charm — Source: @whitetailedshack via Instagram

Farmhouse style bar stool ideas often mix wood and metal accents together. Look for bronze or gunmetal stool frames topped with wooden seats. Stainless steel appliances are a welcome touch. Consider adding a small refrigerator, ice maker, or second dishwasher to your island kitchen units.

6. Discover Edgy Industrial Inspirations

Capture an industrial breakfast bar vibe by adding an all-metal island to your kitchen. Whether you go with a painted matte black island or add rusty, corrugated metal panels, metal is a must in an industrial style kitchen. Wooden stools are a valid industrial seating selection and add an earthy touch tucked under a metal kitchen island.

Industrial-style kitchen with a wooden breakfast bar, gray cabinetry, exposed brick feature, black pendant lighting, and rustic barstools — Source: @didsburyterrace via Instagram

Modern industrial kitchen with an exposed brick wall, sleek black cabinetry, a wooden island breakfast bar, metal barstools, and pendant lighting — Source: @kropp.parkbeachhouse via Instagram

Minimalist industrial kitchen with a wood and white breakfast bar, sleek black barstools, modern pendant lighting, and stylish open shelving — Source: @once.upon.a.home via Instagram

A rustic wooden high-top table with four gray metal stools in a room with light wood flooring and blinds on the window — Source: @psconnolly via Instagram

Wooden high table with two metal bar stools against a blue and brick-patterned wall, with a partially visible round sign above — Source: @rusticrevivene via Instagram

Round wooden table with a metal base, surrounded by four leather chairs on a wooden floor — Source: @thefamouslittlelampshop via Instagram

Dark, monochromatic tones work well with industrial design ideas, so go for an espresso brown floor to anchor your edgy new kitchen bar. Hardwood, tile, or painted concrete keep true to the industrial style. Add a faux exposed brick wall beside the bar to add more industrial-flavored appeal.

7. Enhance Casual Dining Experiences

If you were to poll people with a breakfast bar, they would likely state that informal dining is the thing they love most about this feature. Not only is it preferred to the dining room for family meals, the breakfast bar provides welcome extra seating when entertaining.

You don’t have to be fussy about decorating a breakfast bar, as its counter space is usually more functional than decorative.

Modern breakfast bar with a marble-style table, sleek grey barstools, metallic accents, and a stylish textured wall for a chic dining space — Source: @kirstyhs_home via Instagram

Elegant breakfast bar with a dark wood tabletop, plush grey quilted barstools, chrome legs, and a vase of fresh flowers for a stylish touch — Source: @loveatnumber54 via Instagram

Cozy breakfast bar with a wooden countertop, sage green base, minimalist barstools, skylights, and industrial pendant lighting for a warm ambiance — Source: @project_briar via Instagram

An island breakfast bar is the perfect place to have coffee or brunch with a few friends. Your kids will likely ask to eat all their meals in this comfortable zone. It’s also a great workspace to break out the flour and chocolate chips and have a rainy-day bake session.

8. Create a Social Hub in Your Kitchen

One of the beautiful benefits of a kitchen breakfast bar is that it provides a comfortable place for your guests to hang out while you are cooking. Comfortable seating, such as an upholstered bar stool, will make the area even more appealing.

Charming farmhouse kitchen with a white island breakfast bar, black countertop, wooden barstools, hanging plants, and vintage-style pendant lighting — Source: @devolkitchens via Instagram

Warm industrial-style kitchen with a wooden breakfast bar, exposed brick feature, dark cabinetry, pendant lighting, and rustic barstools for a cozy feel — Source: @didsburyterrace via Instagram

Sleek modern kitchen with a marble waterfall breakfast bar, gray barstools, copper pendant lighting, and a cozy built-in dining nook — Source: @dream_zen_house via Instagram

Modern kitchen with a sleek gray breakfast bar, plush velvet barstools, glass pendant lighting, and a mounted TV for a cozy and stylish look — Source: @home___at__57 via Instagram

Bright kitchen with a white quartz breakfast bar, wooden and metal barstools, light gray cabinetry, and natural woven blinds for a cozy touch — Source: @listinprogress via Instagram

Modern kitchen with a black and white breakfast bar, sleek dark cabinetry, wooden barstools with leather seats, and open shelving for a stylish touch — Source: @mrcabinets via Instagram

Stylish modern kitchen with a dark waterfall breakfast bar, sleek barstools, pendant lighting, herringbone flooring, and Scandinavian-inspired decor — Source: @our.yorkshire.scandihome via Instagram

Chic kitchen with a wooden breakfast bar, pink herringbone tile accent, plush gray barstools, and soft pastel decor for a cozy, modern look — Source: @our_bellway_plane via Instagram

If you can, connect water and electricity into your kitchen island breakfast bar. That way, you create a mini kitchen within your kitchen—a perfect second work area when preparing big meals or even doing arts and crafts.

9. Opt for Versatile L-Shaped Designs

An L-shaped, or peninsula-style breakfast bar is one that extends into the kitchen at a 90 degree angle from the adjacent cabinet and countertop. Even though one end is essentially anchored to the wall, your family and guests will still love gathering around this type of kitchen breakfast bar.

Sophisticated kitchen with an L-shaped breakfast bar, sleek black cabinetry, plush barstools, statement pendant lighting, and under-island LED glow — Source: @228renovate via Instagram

Modern L-shaped breakfast bar in an open-plan living space, featuring sleek gray barstools, white countertops, and ambient blue LED ceiling lighting — Source: @levelspropertiesandinvestments via Instagram

Wooden L-shaped breakfast bar with black stools on a tiled floor, near a window with lace curtains and green containers — Source: @natures_calming_creations via Instagram

Cozy coffee nook with mugs, espresso machine, latte, and jars; wall shelves hold decor and cups; hanging plant adds greenery — Source: @our.barratt.forever.home.xx via Instagram

Compact wooden breakfast bar with two place settings, cups, and a kettle on the side — Source: @rusticbysimon via Instagram

An L-shaped design can offer more seating space than a counter-based breakfast bar. It can also provide a work area on the smaller part of the “L” while providing seating zones on the longer side.

10. Go Modern with Minimalist Bars

Modern floor plans include more open spaces, making the breakfast bar a welcoming island in the midst. People tend to be drawn to these social focal points and gather around them during parties or visits. A sleek, uncluttered, modern kitchen is a perfect backdrop for a simple yet useful breakfast bar.

Luxurious modern kitchen with a sleek marble breakfast bar, black cabinetry with gold accents, ambient lighting, and contemporary pendant fixtures — Source: @astercucine_official via Instagram

Contemporary kitchen with a black and wood waterfall breakfast bar, warm leather barstools, geometric flooring, and sleek white cabinetry — Source: @elleestpasbellelavie_ via Instagram

Modern monochrome kitchen with a sleek black and white breakfast bar, quilted gray barstools, mesh pendant lighting, and minimalist decor — Source: @home.at.no9 via Instagram

Modern kitchen with a sleek white breakfast bar, gray upholstered barstools, glossy cabinetry, and a striking stainless steel range hood with LED lighting — Source: @house_of_dishot via Instagram

Bright modern kitchen with a sleek white breakfast bar, gray barstools, glossy cabinetry, pendant lighting, and large glass doors for natural light — Source: @lime_tree_house via Instagram

Sleek modern kitchen with a curved breakfast bar, dark glossy cabinetry, wood-accented seating area, black pendant lighting, and minimalist decor — Source: @mixella_interiors via Instagram

Modern monochrome kitchen with a sleek black breakfast bar, gray barstools, white countertops, stainless steel appliances, and under-cabinet lighting — Source: @ourharrisonstory via Instagram

Minimalist white kitchen with a sleek waterfall breakfast bar, glossy cabinetry, transparent barstools, and skylight windows for bright natural lighting — Source: @sanctuary_kitchens_bathrooms via Instagram

Although simplicity is king when it comes to modern kitchen design, it’s very contemporary to mix natural materials, such as marble, wood, metal and stone.

White cabinets with a white quartz countertop are a glamorous modern combination that will never fall out of style. A beige floor made from herringbone pale oak laminate adds a light, airy, Scandinavian flavor to your modern design ideas.

Read more: 54 Modern Kitchen Ideas

11. Enjoy Al Fresco with Outdoor Bars

Sometimes the best place to build a breakfast bar is outdoors—especially if you live in a temperate climate. If you frequently grill or use an outdoor kitchen in the summertime, an outdoor breakfast bar is a must for casual dining. Install weatherproofed kitchen cabinets beneath it to store all your outdoor cooking essentials.

Outdoor patio with a tall wooden table, stone base, and four matching chairs on a gravel surface, surrounded by a stone wall — Source: @marsh_mill_interiors via Instagram

If patio space is limited, a fold-down Murphy bar may be your best bet. Check out this video to see how one DIYer made the perfect party or breakfast bar on his back patio:

If you live in an apartment with a balcony, check into bar top options that attach directly to the balcony railing.

Read more: 33 Outdoor Kitchen Ideas

12. Solutions for Small Spaces

Even a small breakfast bar adds a lot of usability to your kitchen. Not only does it provide extra storage and workspace, it is an excellent place to serve food buffet-style during a party.

Installing flat panel cabinets beneath the bar can provide a convenient place to store your toaster, blender, and other small appliances when they’re not being used.

Wooden bar table with two stools, chalkboard, plant, fruit bowl, and a coffee cup on top; light-filled room with tiled floor — Source: @_projectperfecthome_ via Instagram

Cozy small kitchen with a built-in breakfast bar, industrial-style barstools, subway tile backsplash, soft gray cabinetry, and warm pendant lighting — Source: @barronshomelife via Instagram

Charming farmhouse-style kitchen with a small wooden breakfast bar, white cabinetry, open shelving, cozy decor, and rustic barstools for a warm touch — Source: @enjoyingthelilthings via Instagram

Compact breakfast bar setup in a modern apartment, featuring a slim wooden table with metal legs, sleek black barstools, and a scenic window view — Source: @flat_pack_flat via Instagram

Stylish small kitchen with a gray breakfast bar, black and gold barstools, modern tiled backsplash, open shelving, and sleek pendant lighting — Source: @olgaashby via Instagram

Cozy small breakfast bar with a rustic live-edge wooden countertop, black quilted barstool, wall-mounted wine rack, and stylish decor in a compact space — Source: @ourhomeontrentlea via Instagram

Compact kitchen with a stylish small breakfast bar, dark wood countertop, gray barstools, white cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances for a modern touch — Source: @ruffordno4 via Instagram

Cozy small breakfast bar with a rustic live-edge wooden table, quilted gray barstools, sleek black metal legs, and a minimalist decor setup — Source: @westwoodfurnishings via Instagram

Even in a studio apartment, you may have a corner that’s a perfect location for small breakfast bar ideas. If you’re fully remodeling your small space, remember that light colors and oversized floor tiles can help make a small kitchen feel more spacious.

13. Use Tables as Alternative Solutions

If you want a breakfast bar, but your landlord won’t allow you to build one, shop for a narrow table. A bar-sized table can be placed in a corner and turned into a perfectly functional breakfast bar. In fact, any kind of table can potentially become a breakfast bar with creative room placement.

Minimalist kitchen nook featuring a tall white table, two modern black stools, wall decor, hanging plant, and a dark tiled floor — Source: @ahouse_ourhome via Instagram

Stylish breakfast bar with a rich wooden table, leather barstools with black metal frames, a stone accent wall, and lush hanging greenery for a cozy vibe — Source: @bluesummer.nl via Instagram

Cozy breakfast bar with a rustic wooden table, quilted leather barstools, industrial-style lighting, and farmhouse-inspired decor for a warm ambiance — Source: @the_queenofmyown_castle via Instagram

If you have an ordinary height table or desk that you wish to repurpose into a breakfast bar, ask a handyman if he can lengthen its legs. You may have to attach all new legs to raise your breakfast bar to full barstool height.

14. Save Space with Wall-Mounted Bars

A wall-mounted breakfast bar may be the best way to add this feature while preserving your available floor space. Add floating shelves above the bar to increase your storage space. Canisters, extra mugs, and glasses can be stashed away on these wall-mounted shelves.

Boho-inspired kitchen with a rustic live-edge wooden wall breakfast bar, white barstools, open shelving, macrame accents, and warm earthy tones — Source: @barefoot.momma3 via Instagram

Charming breakfast bar with a wooden countertop, rattan barstools, soft blue walls, pendant lighting, and open shelving for a cozy, rustic touch — Source: @elm_terrace_interior via Instagram

Cozy kitchen nook with two white chairs, a flat-screen TV displaying a fireplace, decorative plants, and a soft blanket on the floor — Source: @makingmariecourtourhome via Instagram

Rustic breakfast bar with a wooden countertop, open shelving, industrial-style barstools, wicker storage baskets, and a vintage wall clock for charm — Source: @mysouter_and_labrador_too via Instagram

Cozy farmhouse-style breakfast bar with a natural wood countertop, simple wooden chairs, beadboard wall paneling, and rustic decor on open shelving — Source: @no.74home via Instagram

Compact rustic breakfast bar with a dark wood countertop, industrial pipe shelf, slim black metal legs, and a minimalist design perfect for small spaces — Source: @rusticbysimon via Instagram

Minimalist kitchen nook with two brown chairs at a wooden bar table, plants, a bread box, and decor items on top against a white wall — Source: @thishouseishome_ via Instagram

Hang a large mirror over the breakfast bar to visually expand the room. Or mount a flat screen TV above the bar. That will make it easy to watch the weather and traffic report while eating your morning cereal.

15. Brighten Up with Window Coffee Bars

Don’t overlook the space beneath a window as a possible breakfast bar location. In fact, a windowsill breakfast bar might be the best location of all if you have a nice view. Install a simple shelf at bar or table height and add seating that coordinates with your overall design scheme.

Serene window breakfast bar with a sleek wooden countertop, elegant white barstools, and a breathtaking view of lush tropical greenery — Source: @elliek.design via Instagram

Cozy window breakfast bar with a sleek black countertop, modern barstools, warm decor, and vibrant sunflowers adding a cheerful touch — Source: @makeyourselfathomewithkirst via Instagram

Charming window breakfast nook with a wooden table, cozy white chairs, lush greenery, soft curtains, and warm fairy lights for a relaxing ambiance — Source: @the_liverpool_house via Instagram

Cozy breakfast nook with a wooden bar table, two metal chairs, pendant light, and window view of greenery — Source: @thelogfarmhouse via Instagram

If your windowsill is wide enough, line up green plants or succulents along its length to bring the outdoors inside. A window-mounted bird feeder can bring feathered friends to dine with you on the other side of the glass.

Be sure to have blinds or sheer curtains to help soften intense morning light, especially if the window faces east.

How do you decorate a kitchen breakfast bar?

A few elements can turn a breakfast bar from boring to beautiful. Hang attractive pendant lights over the bar and undermount LED lights beneath the countertop. Use a colorful bowl of fresh fruit or a vase of cut flowers as a centerpiece. Keep it simple, but splurge on high quality, great looking bar stools.

What is the normal overhang for a breakfast bar?

An average overhang is between 10 and 12 inches. This allows most people enough knee room below and enough dining space on top.