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

In the morning, the bistro serves an indulgent breakfast buffet of local cheeses and baked goods from local producers. —Gisela Williams, Travel + Leisure, 31 Jan. 2026

Now’s the time to score an on-sale set, including a complete five-piece conversation set under $300 and a $90 foldable bistro set. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Jan. 2026

Here, Erin Bunch asks three chic chefs and professional party throwers for the handful of items that can make your dining room (or kitchen nook) feel like a swanky, sexy bistro—no reservation needed. —Erin Bunch, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Jan. 2026

For lovers of lively Parisian bistros, chef Ludo Lefebvre opened his first Petit Trois restaurant outside Los Angeles in the Mollie Hotel, serving classics like Burgundy escargots, steak frites, and French onion soup. —Amy Tara Koch, Robb Report, 29 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