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

The second floor houses the main bedroom, an en suite bathroom, and sliding glass doors that lead out to a charming deck with room for a bistro table and a few plants. —Toni Sutton, People.com, 9 May 2025

There, McNally’s fascination with archetypal French brasseries and bistros took hold. —Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 5 May 2025

His growing culinary reach now also includes the café Yellow and the bistro and cocktail bar La’ Shukran. —Amy Alipio, AFAR Media, 29 Apr. 2025

Astoria Grand Reimer Two-Person Aluminum Bistro Set This bistro set’s antique design adds a charming touch to your patio or garden. —Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 26 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