What is the difference between a sideboard and a server?

The difference between a sideboard and a server mostly pertains to usage. A sideboard is a side-table with cabinet doors that is used for serving, most often in a dining room (today, sideboards can sometimes be found in living rooms and foyers). In form, a credenza has much in common with a sideboard. Sideboards have short legs or no legs at all. A server is very slim and is meant to be placed along the dining room wall. It is shorter and takes up less room than a sideboard and is also considered to be more formal than a sideboard — a sideboard might offer a surface to serve dinner, whereas a server might best be used to serve dessert. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary sideboards and servers from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

What is a dining server?

A dining server is a type of table that is slim and designed to be placed along a dining room wall. It’s meant to be a spot to stage food before it’s served to guests and not necessarily used for storage, although some dining servers may have cabinets. Find a selection of dining servers on 1stDibs.

Why is a sideboard called a sideboard?

A sideboard is nearly the same thing as a buffet , but slightly shorter. Standing against a wall in a dining room, a sideboard’s main function is to supply an easily accessible surface for serving trays, bowls or plates of food.

Sideboards are cabinets with shelves and drawers used to store serving utensils, dinnerware and table linens.

What is a server in a dining room?

A server in a dining room is a slim piece of furniture placed near the dining table and is typically used to stage food before serving. Traditionally, servers were unassuming and provided surfaces for serving dishes — they occupied less room than a buffet or a sideboard. Newly designed servers include drawers where you can store dishes, cutlery and other necessary elements for meals. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage servers.

What is a wine server called?

A wine server is formally called a sommelier or wine steward. A sommelier is a person who is trained in the wine profession. This individual is typically very knowledgeable about wines as well as pairing wine and food.

What is the best buffet server?

Buffet servers — or buffets —are available in various materials, sizes, styles, and designs. Choosing the best buffet server is a matter of preference that complements your home décor. A buffet server is supposed to be functional and useful; you should choose one with drawers or shelves based on your needs. Find a wide collection of antique and vintage buffets on 1stDibs today.

What is a wood salad server?

A wood utensil that’s used to serve salad is a wood salad server. Salad servers often feature two oversized forks or a fork and a paddle-shaped instrument. Shop a collection of salad servers from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is the purpose of a sideboard?

The purpose of a sideboard is to provide a place to store and organize items for the home. Often used in dining rooms, sideboards work well for keeping serveware and dinnerware free of dust and hidden when not in use. Some people use sideboards to house entertainment centers, media, games and other odds and ends in living rooms, or place them in entryways to provide places to stash cold-weather accessories, bags and shoes. Explore a large collection of sideboards on 1stDibs.

What is a kitchen sideboard?

A kitchen sideboard is a piece of furniture used for serving food and storing serving dishes and table linens. Kitchen sideboards long and often sit low to the ground. Shop vintage sideboards on 1stDibs.

What would a server use a monkey dish for?

A server would use a monkey dish to present nuts and other small finger foods and condiments. The name comes from the centuries-old practice of giving a small portion of food to a monkey to determine if it was poisoned. Shop a collection of monkey dishes on 1stDibs.

What is a sideboard table used for?

A sideboard table is generally used for storing cutlery, napkins and other dining supplies. Sideboards have much in common with credenzas and buffet tables but they are distinct from both of those other kinds of case pieces. Shop a range of antique and vintage sideboards and other storage furniture on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a sideboard and a hutch?

The difference between a sideboard and a hutch is that a sideboard is a side table with cabinet doors that was originally used for serving, most often in a dining room (now, you might find a sideboard in a foyer or living room). A hutch is essentially a storage piece made of two parts — there is a set of shelves or cabinets on top of a lower unit, which features a counter and either cabinets or a set of drawers. In form, a credenza has much in common with a sideboard. A hutch might be of help in serving tea or other beverages, but it is more of a case piece than it is a piece of furniture that is used for serving. Shop a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary sideboards and hutches from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Should a sideboard be taller than a table?

Yes, a sideboard should generally be taller than a dining table in the same space. Look for a sideboard that is about four to six inches taller than the dining tabletop. The shortest pieces you should consider are those of equal height to the table. If your sideboard is shorter than the dining table, your room may look out of proportion. On 1stDibs, find a variety of sideboards.

What is the difference between a sideboard and a cabinet?

The difference between a sideboard and a cabinet is the specificity of the terms. A cabinet is any piece of furniture that features interior storage space hidden behind one or more doors. On the other hand, a sideboard is a long, low cabinet often used to store tableware and linens in dining rooms. Shop a diverse assortment of sideboards and other cabinets on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a buffet and a sideboard?

The terms buffet and sideboard are used interchangeably, although buffets generally have higher legs and stand 34 to 38 inches tall.

What can I use instead of a sideboard?

What you can use instead of a sideboard depends on your specific needs. If you're looking for a place to set up buffet spreads when entertaining guests, a console table may be a good option. For storing or displaying items in the dining room, try a bar cabinet, hutch, bookshelf or floating wall shelves. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of dining room furniture.

What is the difference between a buffet table and a sideboard?

Buffet tables and sideboards are both types of cabinet furniture. Though often used as a synonym for “sideboard,” a buffet technically possesses a tiered or shelved superstructure for displaying decorative kitchenware. The term derives from buffet à deux corps, a piece which is seen mostly in French Provincial furniture. A sideboard is a side-table with cabinet doors that is used for serving, most often in a dining room. In form, a credenza has much in common with a sideboard (it's not uncommon to find a sideboard in a foyer, however). Find a wide range of mid-century modern buffets and sideboards on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a sideboard and a console table?

The difference between a sideboard and a console table comes down to usage and storage features. Sideboards are usually found in dining rooms and have shelving concealed behind cabinet doors for storing dinnerware, glassware and serveware. Normally positioned in entryways, hallways and living rooms, console tables may have no storage features or include drawers, open shelves or cabinet doors, depending on their design. Find a large selection of console tables and sideboards on 1stDibs.

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

The main difference between a buffet and a sideboard is that a buffet is usually slightly taller than a sideboard. However, both types of tables are typically found in the dining room and both serve the same function as a place to put serving dishes.

Servers And Sideboards

Walnut Server

Dining Room Buffet Cabinet Servers

Mid Century Servers Cabinets

Long Mid-Century Modern Server by Greaves & Thomas

$3,900

Long Mid-Century Modern Server by Greaves & Thomas

By Greaves and Thomas

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Stylish midcentury sideboard or server. Manufactured by Greaves & Thomas who were inspired by

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Wood

Mid Century Carousel Server by Gimsom Slater

$2,240Sale Price|20% Off

Mid Century Carousel Server by Gimsom Slater

By Gimson and Slater Ltd

Located in New York, NY

Chic and stylish server sideboard by noted English maker Gimson and Slater, as part of the Carousel

Category

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Brass

Mahogany Server

$1,500 / item

Mahogany Server

Located in Annville, PA

The Mahogany Server matches other items in our Penhurst collection. An ideal size our Mahogany

Category

2010s Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Victorian Server Sideboard Maple and, circa 1900

$1,719

Victorian Server Sideboard Maple and, circa 1900

Located in Potters Bar, GB

This Quality Server was Produced By "Maple & Co" Having Turned and Fluted Legs with a Mahogany

Category

Antique Early 1900s Victorian Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Two Drawer Server

$2,195 / item

Two Drawer Server

Located in Annville, PA

A most useful Two Drawer Server with Pullout Tray by Niagara Furniture. Great for use in the dining

Category

2010s Regency Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Georgian Revival Server Sideboard Mahogany Hobbs and Co London

$4,469

Georgian Revival Server Sideboard Mahogany Hobbs and Co London

Located in Potters Bar, GB

Good quality Georgian revival mahogany server This server stands upon wonderful carved and shaped

Category

Vintage 1980s Georgian Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

19thC Mahogany Server Sideboard

$7,907

19thC Mahogany Server Sideboard

Located in Staffordshire, GB

circa 1890 19thC Mahogany Server Sideboard sku 564A W173 x D38 x H94 cm Internal shelf depth 32 cm

Category

Antique 19th Century Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Chestnut Four Drawer Server

$6,675

Chestnut Four Drawer Server

Located in Nantucket, MA

Lovely four drawer server crafted from chestnut with a mellow oaky patina. With breadboard ends on

Category

21st Century and Contemporary English Sideboards

Materials

Chestnut

Mahogany Two Door Server

$1,850 / item

Mahogany Two Door Server

Located in Annville, PA

This Mahogany Two Door Server from Niagara Furniture has a great amount of storage space with two

Category

2010s Chippendale Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Chippendale Sideboard Mahogany Server Ball and Claw Feet 1900

$1,719

Chippendale Sideboard Mahogany Server Ball and Claw Feet 1900

Located in Potters Bar, GB

This unusual Chippendale Revival side table is raised upon cabriole legs with boldly carved ball and claw feet Circa 1900 The table features 2 mahogany lined drawers one is fitted ou...

Category

Antique Early 1900s Chippendale Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Semi Antique Mahogany Server

$2,400

Semi Antique Mahogany Server

Located in Bridgeport, CT

A fine server with an overhanging top with carved edge. The apron with three deep drawers with fine

Category

Early 20th Century Rustic Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

German Carved and Inlaid Server or Sideboard, circa 1850

$4,229Sale Price|50% Off

German Carved and Inlaid Server or Sideboard, circa 1850

Located in Evergreen, CO

Crafted with extreme care in Germany during the mid-19th century, this exceptional server or

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century German Black Forest Sideboards

Materials

Ebony, Maple, Oak, Walnut

19th Century English Mahogany Server

$2,800

19th Century English Mahogany Server

Located in Charlottesville, VA

English mahogany server with a rectangular top above a central drawer flanked by cupboard doors

Category

Antique 19th Century English Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Super Georgian Mahogany Sideboard Server

$2,056

Super Georgian Mahogany Sideboard Server

Located in Swadlincote, GB

A very nice quality Georgian mahogany two drawer inlaid sideboard or server, original excellent

Category

Antique 18th Century English Georgian Sideboards

Materials

Abalone, Mahogany

Mid-Century Rosewood Danish Server

$4,500

Mid-Century Rosewood Danish Server

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This richly designed server cabinet in covered in deep rosewood grain, with sliding doors and Arne

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Rosewood

Baker Banded Walnut Credenza Server

$3,250

Baker Banded Walnut Credenza Server

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in Southampton, NJ

Stunning and classic server credenza by Milling Road of Baker Furniture. This Asian inspired

Category

Vintage 1960s American American Classical Sideboards

Materials

Wood

Philippines Inlaid Rosewood Server

$8,300

Philippines Inlaid Rosewood Server

Located in Palm Beach, FL

Sideboard from the Philippines, often confused with Anglo Indian,crafted in rosewood with classic practical form having two drawers with brass hardware, geometric bone inlays, and lo...

Category

Early 20th Century Philippine Anglo-Indian Sideboards

Materials

Rosewood

Three Drawer Four Door Server

$5,290

Three Drawer Four Door Server

Located in Dallas, TX

Part of Brendan Bass’s one-of-a-kind Le Monde collection, this globally sourced server embodies

Category

20th Century Organic Modern Sideboards

Materials

Wood

17th Century English Oak Server

$3,800

17th Century English Oak Server

Located in Chapel Hill, NC

17th century English oak server. Blackened with the patination of centuries. Three drawers, the

Category

Antique 17th Century English Sideboards

Materials

Brass

Hepplewhite Style Mahogany Sideboard / Server

$4,400

Hepplewhite Style Mahogany Sideboard / Server

Located in Tarry Town, NY

Late 19th century mahogany wood Williamsburg Classical Inlay Hepplewhite style server / sideboard

Category

Antique Late 19th Century North American Hepplewhite Sideboards

Materials

Brass

Period Georgian Sideboard Mahogany Server

$3,369

Period Georgian Sideboard Mahogany Server

Located in Potters Bar, GB

Georgian mahogany inlaid sideboard Period Georgian antique Raised upon square tapered legs with spade feet This sideboard has 2 oak lined drawers and 1 cupboard The sideboard feature...

Category

Vintage 1980s Georgian Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

French Bleached Pine Server 183

$4,705

French Bleached Pine Server 183

Located in Nashville, TN

gorgeous natural detail, and the light color is excellent for pairing with other pieces. This server would

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Sideboards

Materials

Pine

Sheraton Sideboard Antique Mahogany Server 1880

$2,606

Sheraton Sideboard Antique Mahogany Server 1880

Located in Potters Bar, GB

Sheraton Revival mahogany server This server stands upon elegant tapered legs Circa 1880 The server

Category

Antique 1880s Sheraton Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Period Georgian Sideboard Mahogany Server

$3,644

Period Georgian Sideboard Mahogany Server

Located in Potters Bar, GB

Wonderful Georgian mahogany sideboard This sideboard is raised upon 8 tapered legs with spade feet Period Georgian antique Will ship to anywhere in the world - including US - so plea...

Category

Vintage 1980s Georgian Sideboards

Materials

Wood

Georgian Mahogany Server with Shaped Splash Rail and Gadrooned Edge Top

$2,600

Georgian Mahogany Server with Shaped Splash Rail and Gadrooned Edge Top

Located in Milford, NH

A wonderfully carved English Georgian mahogany server with shaped splash rail and gadrooned edge

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Georgian Sideboards

Materials

Brass

Baker Furniture Chippendale Mahogany and Burl Wood Sideboard Server, Refinished

$1,795

Baker Furniture Chippendale Mahogany and Burl Wood Sideboard Server, Refinished

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional Chippendale or Queen Anne style sideboard server, console, or entry table By

Category

Mid-20th Century American Chippendale Sideboards

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern Danish Teak Server

$4,500

Mid-Century Modern Danish Teak Server

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Beautiful mid-century modern Danish server crafted from richly grained teak. Features clean

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Teak

British Colonial Style Sideboard or Server

$9,900

British Colonial Style Sideboard or Server

Located in Palm Beach, FL

Antique William IV style sideboard reminiscent of a West Indies British Colonial server or buffet

Category

Antique 19th Century Antiguan British Colonial Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Reclaimed Elm Three Door Server

$5,390

Reclaimed Elm Three Door Server

Located in Dallas, TX

This piece is a part of Brendan Bass’s one-of-a-kind collection, Le Monde. French for “The World”, the Le Monde collection is made up of rare and hard to find pieces curated by Brend...

Category

20th Century Organic Modern Sideboards

Materials

Wood

Georgian Sideboard Mahogany Server Buffet

$2,056

Georgian Sideboard Mahogany Server Buffet

Located in Potters Bar, GB

Here We Have a Georgian Revival Mahogany Sideboard of Small Proportions. Standing Upon Tapered legs With Spade Feet. Circa 1900 Featuring a Central Drawer Flanked By Cupboards. The D...

Category

Antique Early 1900s Georgian Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Chippendale Mahogany Sideboard Server 1890 Buffet

$3,369

Chippendale Mahogany Sideboard Server 1890 Buffet

Located in Potters Bar, GB

A gorgeous Victorian four door sideboard in the Chippendale manner Circa 1890 All in flame mahogany with extensive carving on the doors and a pie crust freeze round the top Big piece...

Category

Antique 1890s Chippendale Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Pair of Vintage Bamboo and Grasscloth Two Door Cabinets or Servers

$11,900 / set

Pair of Vintage Bamboo and Grasscloth Two Door Cabinets or Servers

Located in Palm Beach, FL

Handsome pair of mid century cabinets or servers crafted with bamboo frames featuring herringbone

Category

Mid-20th Century Philippine Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Grasscloth, Bamboo

19th Century English Mahogany Server

$2,681

19th Century English Mahogany Server

Located in Chelmsford, Essex

For sale is a good quality 19th century mahogany sideboard with boxwood inlay, having a concave centre and ledge back, above five drawers, standing on square tapered legs terminating...

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century English George III Sideboards

Materials

Brass

French Art-Deco Sideboard Server in Macassar Ebony, Oak, and Brass

$12,500

French Art-Deco Sideboard Server in Macassar Ebony, Oak, and Brass

Located in Stamford, CT

Macassar Ebony, amplifying the server’s timeless sophistication. Each cabinet door features intricate

Category

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Sideboards

Materials

Brass

George III Mahogany Bowfront Server

$6,800

George III Mahogany Bowfront Server

Located in Essex, MA

With bowed rectangular top over a conforming case with three drawers and a pair of cabinet doors raised on splayed feet. With oval brasses and key.

Category

Antique 1790s English George III Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

George III Sideboard Mahogany Server Sheraton

$1,925

George III Sideboard Mahogany Server Sheraton

Located in Potters Bar, GB

You are viewing a gorgeous George III sideboard in mahogany with Sheraton influences Crafted in fine figured mahogany with elegant neoclassical detailing and inlay Configured with fi...

Category

Vintage 1980s George III Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Blonde Mahogany Neoclassical Centerpiece Server

$3,600Sale Price|20% Off

Blonde Mahogany Neoclassical Centerpiece Server

Located in New York, NY

Designed to be the centerpiece of an early 20th century dining room and crafted of solid blonde mahogany and fir, the buffet features several elevated serving areas, including a pair...

Category

Early 20th Century Swedish Neoclassical Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

English 19th Century Solid Mahogany Server

$15,800

English 19th Century Solid Mahogany Server

Located in Baton Rouge, LA

Incredible English mahogany server, or sideboard, dating to the 18th century, from a large country

Category

Antique 19th Century English Sheraton Sideboards

Materials

Brass

Sheraton Revival Sideboard Mahogany Server 1880

$2,131

Sheraton Revival Sideboard Mahogany Server 1880

Located in Potters Bar, GB

You are viewing an elegant Sheraton Revival sideboard in mahogany Such a refined shape with serpentine form Circa date 1880 Brass ring pull handles with backplates in a classical sty...

Category

Antique 1880s Sheraton Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Wylie & Lochhead Edwardian Geometric Oak Server

$2,950 / item

Wylie & Lochhead Edwardian Geometric Oak Server

By Wylie & Lochhead

Located in High Point, NC

Circa 1900 oak small sideboard made by the prestigious firm of Wylie & Lochhead from Glasgow. This piece was made to last. The firm of Wylie & Lochhead were the biggest and most pr...

Category

Antique Early 1900s Scottish Edwardian Sideboards

Materials

Oak

Vintage Coconut Shell Sideboard or Server

$9,600

Vintage Coconut Shell Sideboard or Server

By Maitland Smith

Located in Palm Beach, FL

Impressive midcentury sideboard or server having a case with a bronze abstract mosaic top and

Category

Late 20th Century Philippine Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Bronze, Iron

1940s Art Deco Vanleigh Walnut Server with Inlaid Flowers and Burl Accents

$4,274

1940s Art Deco Vanleigh Walnut Server with Inlaid Flowers and Burl Accents

By Vanleigh Furniture

Located in Philadelphia, PA

This exquisite 1940s Vanleigh Walnut Server features beautiful inlaid flowers and burl accents

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Art Deco Sideboards

Materials

Walnut

English Regency Mahogany Server With Brass Gallery

$1,800

English Regency Mahogany Server With Brass Gallery

Located in Charlottesville, VA

Elegant mahogany server featuring a rectangular top with brass gallery and a recessed central panel

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Sideboards

Materials

Brass

Antique Étagère or Server with Cabinet

$8,900

Antique Étagère or Server with Cabinet

Located in Palm Beach, FL

William IV English étagère or server, hand crafted in well grained mahogany having two shelves with

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English British Colonial Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Mid-Century Modern Style Server/Credenza

$4,200

Mid-Century Modern Style Server/Credenza

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Elegant Mid-Century style server with bi fold doors revealing adjustable shelf storage and felt

Category

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Chrome

Regency Sideboard Mahogany Antique Server Buffet

$2,606

Regency Sideboard Mahogany Antique Server Buffet

Located in Potters Bar, GB

Quality Regency mahogany inlaid sideboard Period Regency This quality sideboard is raised upon 6 tapered and fluted legs Having an arrangement of 4 mahogany lined drawers The drawers...

Category

Vintage 1980s Regency Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

English 19th Century Two-Toned Oak Server with Drawers and Carved Apron

$7,200

English 19th Century Two-Toned Oak Server with Drawers and Carved Apron

Located in Atlanta, GA

An English Georgian style two-toned oak server from the 19th century with drawers, carved apron and

Category

Antique 19th Century English Georgian Sideboards

Materials

Oak

English Mahogany Bow Front Server/Credenza

$12,850

English Mahogany Bow Front Server/Credenza

Located in Woodbury, CT

Made for us in England, this mahogany bow front server/credenza features four drawers over four

Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Georgian Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany, Satinwood

Baker Historic Charleston Mahogany Inlaid Sideboard Server Buffet

$3,500

Baker Historic Charleston Mahogany Inlaid Sideboard Server Buffet

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in Long Branch, NJ

Stunning Baker Historic Charleston Mahogany Inlaid Sideboard Server Buffet Dimensions: 67.5" Wide

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Hepplewhite Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Victorian Sideboard - Mahogany Pedestal Server 1870

$1,780

Victorian Sideboard - Mahogany Pedestal Server 1870

Located in Potters Bar, GB

Victorian Mahogany Pedestal Sideboard. Standing on a Plinth base with 2 cupboards. Circa 1870 The left hand cupboard with sliding trays and the right hand cupboard with a lined cella...

Category

Antique 1870s Victorian Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Antique Regency Sideboard, Mahogany Server Buffet

$2,056

Antique Regency Sideboard, Mahogany Server Buffet

Located in Potters Bar, GB

Regency Mahogany Bow Sideboard. 19th century Having Tapered Legs with Spade Feet. 1 x Oak lined Central Drawer flanked by 2 x cupboards with circular inlays to the doors. The top...

Category

Antique 19th Century Regency Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

English Early 19th Century Manogany Serpentine Server

$3,885

English Early 19th Century Manogany Serpentine Server

Located in Atlanta, GA

English Early 19th Century Manogany Serpentine Server with Fluted Detail and Urn Carving on Frieze

Category

Antique 19th Century English Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Antique French Mahogany and Bronze D'ore Marble Top Server, Circa 1880

$9,800

Antique French Mahogany and Bronze D'ore Marble Top Server, Circa 1880

Located in New Orleans, LA

Antique French mahogany and bronze d'ore marble top server, Circa 1880.

Category

Antique 19th Century French Sideboards

Materials

Marble, Bronze

Baker Historic Charleston Mahogany Inlaid Sideboard Server Buffet

$3,500

Baker Historic Charleston Mahogany Inlaid Sideboard Server Buffet

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in Long Branch, NJ

Stunning Baker Historic Charleston Mahogany Inlaid Sideboard Server Buffet Dimensions: 67.5" Wide

Category

1990s American Hepplewhite Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Late 19th C White Painted English Server

$2,495

Late 19th C White Painted English Server

Located in Troy, MI

Found in England, this painted server dates from the 1880s. This server features three functional

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Sideboards

Materials

Pine

Georgian Revival Sideboard Mahogany Server Buffet

$1,994

Georgian Revival Sideboard Mahogany Server Buffet

Located in Potters Bar, GB

Georgian Revival Mahogany Sideboard. Circa 1890 This Sideboard is of a Bow Form. Raised Upon Tapered Legs With Square Box Brass Castors. The Sideboard Has an Arrangement of 7 Oak Lin...

Category

Antique 1890s Georgian Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Sheraton Revival Sideboard, Mahogany Server, 1880

$3,300

Sheraton Revival Sideboard, Mahogany Server, 1880

Located in Potters Bar, GB

Very Pretty Mahogany Sheraton Revival Sideboard, standing on square tapered legs with spade toes and boxwood inlays. circa 1880 This piece is of serpentine form. The central drawe...

Category

Antique 1880s Sheraton Sideboards

Materials

Mahogany

Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets Under $3,000

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Servers And Sideboards For Sale on 1stDibs

An assortment of servers and sideboards is available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, metal and mahogany, all servers and sideboards available were constructed with great care. We have 649 antique and vintage servers and sideboards in-stock, while there are 8 modern editions to choose from as well. Servers and sideboards have long been popular, with older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. There are many kinds of servers and sideboards to choose from, but at 1stDibs, Mid-Century Modern, Georgian and Regency servers and sideboards are of considerable interest. Many servers and sideboards are appealing in their simplicity, but Brendan Bass, Baker Furniture Company and Drexel produced popular servers and sideboards that are worth a look.

How Much are Servers And Sideboards?

Prices for servers and sideboards can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, servers and sideboards begin at $595 and can go as high as $145,000, while the average can fetch as much as $4,217.

Finding the Right Sideboards for You

An antique or vintage sideboard today is a sophisticated and stylish component in sumptuous dining rooms of every shape, size and decor scheme, as well as a statement of its own, showcased in art galleries and museums.

Once simply boards made of wood that were used to support ceremonial dining, sideboards have taken on much greater importance as case pieces since their modest first appearance. In Italy, the sideboard was basically a credenza, a solid furnishing with cabinet doors. It was initially intended as an integral piece of any dining room where the wealthy gathered for meals in the southern European country.

Later, in England and France, sideboards retained their utilitarian purpose — a place to keep hot water for rinsing silverware and from which to serve cold drinking water — but would evolve into double-bodied structures that allowed for the display of serveware and utensils on open shelves. We would likely call these buffets, as they’re taller than a sideboard. (Trust us — there is an order to all of this!)

The sideboard is often deemed a buffet in the United States, from the French buffet à deux corps, which referred to a storage and display case. However, a buffet technically possesses a tiered or shelved superstructure for displaying attractive kitchenware and certainly makes more sense in the context of buffet dining — abundant meals served for crowds of people.

Every imaginable iteration of the sideboard has taken shape over the years. Furniture maker and artist Paul Evans, whose work has been the subject of various celebrated museum exhibitions, created ornamented, welded and patinated sideboards for Directional Furniture, collections such as the Cityscape series that speak to his place in revolutionary brutalist furniture design as much as they echo the origins of these sturdy, functional structures centuries ago.

If mid-century modern sideboards or vintage Danish sideboards are more to your liking than an 18th-century mahogany sideboard with decorative inlays in the Hepplewhite style, the particularly elegant pieces crafted by designers Hans Wegner, Edward Wormley or Florence Knoll are often sought by today’s collectors.

Whether you have a specific era or style in mind or you’re open to browsing a vast collection to find the right fit, 1stDibs has a variety of antique and vintage sideboards to choose from.

Questions About Servers And Sideboards

What is the difference between a sideboard and a server?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
The difference between a sideboard and a server mostly pertains to usage. A sideboard is a side-table with cabinet doors that is used for serving, most often in a dining room (today, sideboards can sometimes be found in living rooms and foyers). In form, a credenza has much in common with a sideboard. Sideboards have short legs or no legs at all. A server is very slim and is meant to be placed along the dining room wall. It is shorter and takes up less room than a sideboard and is also considered to be more formal than a sideboard — a sideboard might offer a surface to serve dinner, whereas a server might best be used to serve dessert. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary sideboards and servers from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
What is a dining server?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A dining server is a type of table that is slim and designed to be placed along a dining room wall. It’s meant to be a spot to stage food before it’s served to guests and not necessarily used for storage, although some dining servers may have cabinets. Find a selection of dining servers on 1stDibs.
Why is a sideboard called a sideboard?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019
A sideboard is nearly the same thing as a buffet, but slightly shorter. Standing against a wall in a dining room, a sideboard’s main function is to supply an easily accessible surface for serving trays, bowls or plates of food.
What are sideboards?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Sideboards are cabinets with shelves and drawers used to store serving utensils, dinnerware and table linens.
What is a server in a dining room?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
A server in a dining room is a slim piece of furniture placed near the dining table and is typically used to stage food before serving. Traditionally, servers were unassuming and provided surfaces for serving dishes — they occupied less room than a buffet or a sideboard. Newly designed servers include drawers where you can store dishes, cutlery and other necessary elements for meals. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage servers.
What is a wine server called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
A wine server is formally called a sommelier or wine steward. A sommelier is a person who is trained in the wine profession. This individual is typically very knowledgeable about wines as well as pairing wine and food.
What is the best buffet server?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
Buffet servers — or buffets —are available in various materials, sizes, styles, and designs. Choosing the best buffet server is a matter of preference that complements your home décor. A buffet server is supposed to be functional and useful; you should choose one with drawers or shelves based on your needs. Find a wide collection of antique and vintage buffets on 1stDibs today.
What is a wood salad server?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A wood utensil that’s used to serve salad is a wood salad server. Salad servers often feature two oversized forks or a fork and a paddle-shaped instrument. Shop a collection of salad servers from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is the purpose of a sideboard?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
The purpose of a sideboard is to provide a place to store and organize items for the home. Often used in dining rooms, sideboards work well for keeping serveware and dinnerware free of dust and hidden when not in use. Some people use sideboards to house entertainment centers, media, games and other odds and ends in living rooms, or place them in entryways to provide places to stash cold-weather accessories, bags and shoes. Explore a large collection of sideboards on 1stDibs.
What is a kitchen sideboard?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
A kitchen sideboard is a piece of furniture used for serving food and storing serving dishes and table linens. Kitchen sideboards long and often sit low to the ground. Shop vintage sideboards on 1stDibs.
What would a server use a monkey dish for?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A server would use a monkey dish to present nuts and other small finger foods and condiments. The name comes from the centuries-old practice of giving a small portion of food to a monkey to determine if it was poisoned. Shop a collection of monkey dishes on 1stDibs.
What is a sideboard table used for?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021
A sideboard table is generally used for storing cutlery, napkins and other dining supplies. Sideboards have much in common with credenzas and buffet tables but they are distinct from both of those other kinds of case pieces. Shop a range of antique and vintage sideboards and other storage furniture on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a sideboard and a hutch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
The difference between a sideboard and a hutch is that a sideboard is a side table with cabinet doors that was originally used for serving, most often in a dining room (now, you might find a sideboard in a foyer or living room). A hutch is essentially a storage piece made of two parts — there is a set of shelves or cabinets on top of a lower unit, which features a counter and either cabinets or a set of drawers. In form, a credenza has much in common with a sideboard. A hutch might be of help in serving tea or other beverages, but it is more of a case piece than it is a piece of furniture that is used for serving. Shop a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary sideboards and hutches from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
Should a sideboard be taller than a table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
Yes, a sideboard should generally be taller than a dining table in the same space. Look for a sideboard that is about four to six inches taller than the dining tabletop. The shortest pieces you should consider are those of equal height to the table. If your sideboard is shorter than the dining table, your room may look out of proportion. On 1stDibs, find a variety of sideboards.
What is the difference between a sideboard and a cabinet?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between a sideboard and a cabinet is the specificity of the terms. A cabinet is any piece of furniture that features interior storage space hidden behind one or more doors. On the other hand, a sideboard is a long, low cabinet often used to store tableware and linens in dining rooms. Shop a diverse assortment of sideboards and other cabinets on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a buffet and a sideboard?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
The terms buffet and sideboard are used interchangeably, although buffets generally have higher legs and stand 34 to 38 inches tall.
What can I use instead of a sideboard?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
What you can use instead of a sideboard depends on your specific needs. If you're looking for a place to set up buffet spreads when entertaining guests, a console table may be a good option. For storing or displaying items in the dining room, try a bar cabinet, hutch, bookshelf or floating wall shelves. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of dining room furniture.
What is the difference between a buffet table and a sideboard?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
Buffet tables and sideboards are both types of cabinet furniture. Though often used as a synonym for “sideboard,” a buffet technically possesses a tiered or shelved superstructure for displaying decorative kitchenware. The term derives from buffet à deux corps, a piece which is seen mostly in French Provincial furniture. A sideboard is a side-table with cabinet doors that is used for serving, most often in a dining room. In form, a credenza has much in common with a sideboard (it's not uncommon to find a sideboard in a foyer, however). Find a wide range of mid-century modern buffets and sideboards on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a sideboard and a console table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
The difference between a sideboard and a console table comes down to usage and storage features. Sideboards are usually found in dining rooms and have shelving concealed behind cabinet doors for storing dinnerware, glassware and serveware. Normally positioned in entryways, hallways and living rooms, console tables may have no storage features or include drawers, open shelves or cabinet doors, depending on their design. Find a large selection of console tables and sideboards on 1stDibs.
What’s the difference between a buffet and a sideboard?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019
The main difference between a buffet and a sideboard is that a buffet is usually slightly taller than a sideboard. However, both types of tables are typically found in the dining room and both serve the same function as a place to put serving dishes.

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