This.
A coffee table with a lift top. Perfect for meals or just whatever. This is the most convenient thing ever. I'm sure it was invented by some poor slob who spilled a meatball on the couch and got brained by his wife with skillet as soon as he got out of the hospital.
The only time we actually use the dining room table for meals is if we have company. Had it for 18 years and it's as sturdy as the day we got it.