What’s the Difference Between Buffets, Sideboards, Servers, Credenzas?

Breaking Down the Terms to Make Shopping for Dining Room Storage Easier

Quick question: What do you call that long, low storage piece you often see in dining rooms?

If you thought “sideboard,” “buffet,” “server,” “credenza,” “cabinet,” or even “console,” you’re not wrong. The reality is, these names are often used interchangeably by furniture stores and designers. While there are subtle differences between these pieces, it’s completely understandable if you’ve been a bit confused, I was too at first. Let’s clear things up once and for all.

Here’s a quick rundown of the differences between these four dining room storage pieces:

• Sideboard: Sideboards typically have short legs, and the cabinets often extend all the way to the floor.
• Buffet: While similar to a sideboard, a buffet usually has higher legs, making it a slightly different variation of the same piece.
• Server: Servers are smaller, shorter, and more formal compared to buffets and sideboards.
• Credenza: Traditionally, a credenza had no legs with cabinets reaching the floor, but modern versions often have legs and typically feature sliding doors.

Now I'll give you a bit more information. 

What Is a Sideboard?

Dining Room Sideboard: The Basics

When you hear the term “sideboard,” it usually refers to a long, low storage piece. Sideboards come in a huge variety of styles—think mirrored or glass-front doors, nailhead trim, or glossy lacquer finishes. The main thing that sets a sideboard apart from a credenza or other storage furniture is its short legs. Many cabinet sideboards have storage spaces that reach all the way to the floor.

The Evolution of the Sideboard

Picture a sideboard as the original version of today’s kitchen cabinets. It’s long, usually waist-high or a bit lower, with a surface on top for setting out food, cabinets underneath, and very short legs—or none at all.

Sideboards got their start in England, where they were initially just simple planks of wood on trestles or shelves mounted to the wall—a spot to rest food while serving. Over time, as sideboards became more important for displaying prized items, drawers and cupboards were added below and now come in complete sets for dining with their matching dining table and chairs.

Sideboard Variations: The Huntboard and Hutch

Sometimes, a sideboard will have a hutch on top, adding extra storage or display space. These hutches might be low with open shelves or taller with glass-front cabinets, perfect for showing off your favorite china.

There’s also the huntboard, an antique variation of the sideboard. Huntboards are taller and were originally designed so people could stand around them and eat after a hunt.

What Is a Buffet?

Buffets: What Are They, Exactly?

A buffet is really just another name for a sideboard. When a sideboard is used in the dining room, it’s often called a buffet; move it to the living room, and it’s likely just a sideboard again.

Where Dining Buffets Come From

Buffets originated in Sweden, where they were used to lay out large spreads of food and drink—what we now call smorgasbords. The idea spread to France and then the rest of Europe.

Sideboard vs. Buffet: What’s the Difference?

In practice, stores and manufacturers might call a long, low storage piece with higher legs a buffet and one with shorter or no legs a sideboard. For example, a piece used in the dining room could be called a buffet, but in the entryway or living room, it might just be a sideboard or cabinet.

What Is a Server?

Servers: The Smaller Cousin of Buffets

Servers tend to be smaller, more formal, and lighter in design compared to buffets. They might have drawers and an open bottom on taller legs or cabinets similar to a buffet or sideboard. The name “server” comes from their use in formal dining settings, where they serve as a spot for placing dishes while serving food.

Dining Room Server vs. Buffet: What Sets Them Apart?

Although the term “server” is often used interchangeably with “buffet” in stores, servers are usually smaller and more compact.

What Is a Credenza?

Credenzas: A Brief History

The word “credenza” comes from the English word “credence” and the Italian word for “belief”—which makes sense, since the first credenzas were used to hold food that needed to be tasted for poison before being served to important guests.

Modern Credenzas: Stylish and Functional

Originally, credenzas had no legs and featured cabinets that reached the floor. But during the mid-20th century, credenzas became popular again, especially in modern design circles, evolving into long, low cabinets with slender legs, often featuring sliding doors.

Why Choose TableUps for Your Buffet, Sideboard, Server, or Credenza?

At TableUps, we know that picking the perfect dining room storage furniture can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve carefully selected a range of high-quality sideboards, buffets, servers, and credenzas to suit any style and space. We’re all about craftsmanship and making sure you’re thrilled with your choice. Each piece is not only stylish but built to last and functional too. With our expert advice and wide selection, you’ll find the perfect piece to add elegance and practicality to your dining room. When you choose TableUps, you’re choosing furniture that will look great and serve your home for years to come.