But why do the MOD buy different kinds of dining table for the seniors' and officers' messes?
It's all down to the cut of steak served in each mess.
The Officers are served Rib eye which is very well marbled and flavourful, the rib section is about the tastiest of all the steaks, and is tender and succulent enough for a quick treatment on the grill.
The SNCO's are served Sirloin which are less tender and cheaper than the rib eye, but sirloin steaks are very tasty.
The oiks are served Round. The round section is the hind leg of the cow, and although some of these can be very flavourful, all are less tender than even the sirloin.
So you see each steak deserves a different dining table in order to do it justice. Hope that answers your question.