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

• nightclub
• cafe
• 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

Shoppers can score patio sofas, dining sets, bistro chairs, outdoor area rugs, and more for less, with deals starting under $150. —Clara McMahon, People.com, 6 Aug. 2025

From casual comfort to celebratory splurges From the start, the duo intended to create a neighborhood bistro, a welcoming spot serving French staples. —Lennie Omalza, The Courier-Journal, 5 Aug. 2025

The Statler, known as a French American-style bistro in downtown Detroit, has temporarily closed. —Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 2 Aug. 2025

For small apartment dwellers or those looking to finally stop eating meals on the couch, a space-saving bistro table is the way to go. —Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 1 Aug. 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