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

This modern French bistro in the Arts District is known for its popular burger and Southeast Asian influences dotted throughout the menu. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 1 Nov. 2026

At street level, Cedilha is a low-lit, sexy neighborhood bistro drawing a very cool crowd of locals and visitors alike. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Oct. 2026

The bistro will also have a full bar and wine menu, Fairman said. — Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 20 Oct. 2026

Despite these grace notes, though, Faux is, on the main, a bistro of the species Crowdpleasing Bistro. — Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 18 Oct. 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