bistro

noun

bis·​tro ˈbē-(ˌ)strō  ˈbi- 

plural bistros

1

: a small or unpretentious restaurant

2

a

: a small bar or tavern

b

: nightclub

Synonyms of bistro

• nightclub
• cabaret
• club
• café

Examples of bistro in a Sentence

a bistro in Paris that serves veal chops and hearty stews

a section of the city populated with casual bistros offering entertainment to suit nearly every taste

Recent Examples on the Web

For a special pick-me-up, visit Pillar in Bishop Arts, where the neighborhood bistro is offering free hot chocolate all day Saturday and Sunday. —Miriam Fauzia, Dallas Morning News, 24 Jan. 2026

Rovinj’s cobbled lanes, baroque churches, and seafood bistros are just a 10-minute walk away. —Jonnie Bayfield, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Jan. 2026

Taste of Belgium lists more than $300,000 in assets for the two bistros, mostly restaurant fixtures and equipment. —Alexander Coolidge, Cincinnati Enquirer, 22 Jan. 2026

Pineapple Grove Arts District Just off Atlantic Avenue, this artsy enclave is best known for its independent boutiques, casual bistros, and a steady lineup of galleries, including House of Perna, Brulé Bistro, and Addison Gallery. —Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 21 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

bistro

noun

bis·​tro ˈbēs-(ˌ)trō  ˈbis- 

: a small or modest restaurant