Cafe curtains, the half-window rule

A cafe curtain covers the lower half of the glass and leaves the top open, which is the whole trick: privacy at eye level, daylight above it. Our format explainer settles lengths and uses, and the kitchen roundup scores picks for sinks, banquettes and street-facing windows.

Because the panels are small, fabric and print carry the look. The boldest options in our tests come from the designer collab collections, printed on washable cotton bases that survive kitchen life.

Quick answers

What length should cafe curtains be?

Aim for coverage of 40 to 60 percent of the window height, hung so the rod sits just above eye level from outside. Exact panel length follows the glass, not a standard size.

Are cafe curtains practical near a kitchen sink?

Yes, that is their natural habitat: splashes hit fabric that is machine washable and rehangs in minutes on a tension or slim brass rod.

What rod do cafe curtains use?

A slim rod inside the frame, tension-mounted or on small brackets. No drilling into tile needed, which is why renters keep buying them.