Television Dinner Trays: From Retro to Modern

When I was a kid, TV dinner trays were synonymous with special occasions. Our family ate dinner at the table every night, so using these trays felt like a delightful rebellion. We had the classic set of four folding wooden tables in a honey-blonde finish, stored on a matching rack. They were bulky, heavy, and undeniably unattractive, yet, to my young mind, they were perfect.

Times have changed. Now, as an adult with my own apartment and aesthetic preferences, my dining habits have evolved too. My partner and I own a busy restaurant, leaving little time for leisurely dinners. While I still enjoy cooking, our meals often happen late at night after work. We crave a proper table setting but lack the time for elaborate arrangements. Our limited free time needs to accommodate both dinner and catching up on our favorite shows.

My quest began for a television dinner tray that suited both my lifestyle and living room decor. The bulky wooden trays of my childhood felt outdated. While they possess a certain retro charm, they are simply too large for my compact Brooklyn apartment.

My initial search on Amazon yielded two main categories: overly whimsical designs and bland office-supply styles. Neither appealed to my taste. Venturing into the vintage section on Etsy, I discovered some charming and colorful lap trays. However, I needed something with legs, as I still enjoy the ritual of setting out a cloth napkin and a wine glass, even while enjoying a casual TV dinner.

The breakthrough came when I broadened my search to “folding tables.” After browsing through options designed for card games or large gatherings, I found the perfect solution: the Novo Acrylic Folding Table from CB2. Designed by Robert and Cortney Novogratz, this table transcends the typical TV tray aesthetic. With its brushed brass legs and clear lucite tabletop, it seamlessly blends functionality with a touch of modern elegance.

The Novo is not only visually appealing but also practical. It folds up easily for storage yet remains sturdy and substantial when in use. Beyond its role as a television dinner tray, it doubles as a stylish side table or a mini bar for parties. It’s versatile enough to accommodate an extra place setting for larger dinner gatherings or holiday meals. This is a folding table that deserves to be displayed, not hidden away in a closet.

While the price tag of $149 might seem steep for a TV tray, it’s an investment in a multi-functional piece of furniture that serves as my primary dining table. Considering the exorbitant prices of similar designer folding tables, the Novo is a comparatively affordable option. It elevates the simple act of enjoying a meal in front of the television into a stylish and comfortable experience.