What size is a standard dinner napkin?

A standard dinner napkin is 16×16 in (40×40 cm) to 20×20 in (50×50 cm). 18×18 in and 20×20 in are the most common for restaurants and banquets.

What is the difference between a dinner and a cocktail napkin?

A dinner napkin is 16–20 in for the main table setting; a cocktail napkin is 4–5 in for drinks and finger food. They differ in size, course and placement.

What material is best for dinner napkins?

Paper and 2-ply tissue for cost-effective daily service; airlaid for a linen-like premium look; cloth or linen for reusable, washable settings. Choice depends on budget and presentation.

Can dinner napkins be custom printed?

Yes. Logos, monograms and artwork print from 5,000 pieces per design across paper, airlaid and cloth dinner napkins.

Restaurant & Events

What Is a Dinner Napkin? Standard Sizes & When to Use One

Updated 2026-08-30 · Jinman Paper Supplies

A dinner napkin is the napkin placed at the main table setting for a meal — larger than a cocktail or beverage napkin and sized for wiping hands and the mouth during a course. In foodservice it typically measures 16×16 in (40×40 cm) up to 20×20 in (50×50 cm), with 18×18 in and 20×20 in the most common for restaurants and banquets.

Standard dinner napkin sizes

Size	Typical use
16×16 in (40×40 cm)	Casual dining, cafés
18×18 in (45×45 cm)	Standard restaurant table setting
20×20 in (50×50 cm)	Banquets, weddings, upscale service

Materials: paper, airlaid or cloth?

Paper / 2-ply tissue — cost-effective for daily restaurant and buffet service.
Airlaid — single dense sheet that feels like linen; premium look without laundry.
Cloth / linen — reusable and washable for fine dining and event venues.

When to use a dinner napkin

Use a dinner napkin for any seated meal service: restaurants, hotel breakfast and banquet tables, wedding receptions and catering. Pair it with a cocktail napkin for the drinks course and a cloth napkin where reuse is preferred.

Browse the Dinner Napkins category or the Restaurant Napkins range for sizes, ply and custom-print options, including the Airlaid Linen-Feel Dinner Napkin.

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