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

From small bistro sets to weather-resistant benches to chaise lounges, Amazon has a plethora of outdoor furniture for your space, no matter how big or small. —Toni Sutton, People.com, 24 Apr. 2025

Ferguson often seeks out antique or vintage French bistro wicker, and looks out for names like Franco Albini, Nanimarquina, Bielecky Brothers, and Atelier Vime. —Blake Bakkila, Architectural Digest, 21 Apr. 2025

In And Out Variety in Norwalk, CT Sisters join forces to bring a modern café to CT with bistro feel and play area for children The sisters had the idea to bring together moms and kids to have something enjoyable for both in one space. —Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 8 Apr. 2025

Starr Restaurants is also the parent company for the upscale Japanese restaurant Makoto in the Bal Harbour Shops, as well as the French bistro Pastis in Wynwood. —Connie Ogle, Miami Herald, 7 Apr. 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