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

• boîte
• cabaret
• café
• cafe
• club
• nightclub
• nightspot
• nitery
• niterie
• roadhouse
• supper club

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

Another highlight is the resident bistro, Magdalena, which serves sustainable dishes inspired and sourced from the Chesapeake Bay’s rich bounty. —Karla Pope, Architectural Digest, 19 June 2025

The site’s deals section is chock full of discounts on folding bistro sets, loveseats, three-piece conversation sets, and more. —Mia Huelsbeck, People.com, 14 June 2025

Wendy Low Washington, D.C. Not long ago, at dinner in a quaint bistro in Dumbo, my friends and I experienced the increasingly common challenge of straining to hear one another while sitting less than two feet away. —The New Yorker, New Yorker, 2 June 2025

While outdoor furniture like bistro sets or porch swings make our spaces functional, decor like welcoming doormats, wind chimes, and hanging baskets add a cozy element reminiscent of Grandma’s house. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 25 May 2025

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