Strictly speaking the answer to the question “does my coffee table need a butler’s tray?” is no. However it is a practical and more visually appealing alternative to a more basic plastic tray or having to keep going back and forth to the kitchen in order to get milk, sugar and so forth.

A butler’s tray is flat with a raised edge to prevent things falling off the surface. They often come with folding legs so you can set them down next to your table when you want to serve food or drinks. It is also useful as an additional table if you have guests round and want somewhere they can set drinks or plates down.

It is also fair to say that a butler’s tray can be a stylish item in its own right- a nice wood finish or metal can be a great complement to your coffee table.

So in short your coffee table does not strictly need a butler’s tray but it can make life a lot easier and can be a great practical and visually pleasing item to complement it.