Stylish Folding TV Tray Tables: Retro Charm Meets Modern Design

When I was a kid, TV dinner trays meant something special. Family dinners were always at the table, so using these trays felt like a fun rebellion. We had the classic set of four folding wooden tables in a honey-blonde finish, stored on a matching rack. Bulky, heavy, and definitely not stylish, but to me, they were perfect.

Times have changed. Now, as an adult with my own apartment and style preferences, my dining habits have evolved. My partner and I own a busy restaurant, leaving little time for relaxed dinners. I still love cooking, but meals often happen late at night after work. We want 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 search began for a television dinner tray that fit both my lifestyle and living room decor. The bulky wooden trays of my childhood felt outdated. While they have a certain retro charm, they’re simply too large for my small Brooklyn apartment.

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

The solution came when I searched for “folding tables.” After browsing options for card games or large gatherings, I found the perfect fit: the Novo Acrylic Folding Table from CB2. Designed by Robert and Cortney Novogratz, this table goes beyond the typical TV tray look. With brushed brass legs and a clear lucite top, it seamlessly blends function and modern elegance.

The Novo is not only beautiful but also practical. It folds easily for storage yet remains sturdy and substantial in use. Beyond its role as a TV dinner tray, it doubles as a stylish side table or a mini bar for parties. It’s versatile enough for an extra place setting at larger dinners or holidays. This is a folding table worth displaying, not hiding in a closet.

While $149 might seem expensive for a TV tray, it’s an investment in a multi-functional piece that serves as my main dining table. Considering the high prices of similar designer folding tables, the Novo is relatively affordable. It elevates enjoying a meal in front of the TV into a stylish and comfortable experience.