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

Designed by Meyer Davis (of 1 Hotel South Beach, Four Seasons Resort and Residences at Cabo Del Sol, and W Rome), the 200-seat bistro has teak wood floors, polished nickel accents, and waterfront views at every turn. —Karla Walsh, Travel + Leisure, 19 Apr. 2026

That night, Brynn went to the Italian bistro Buca di Beppo with a friend, television producer Christine Zander. —Lynsey Eidell, PEOPLE, 15 Apr. 2026

Jamie’s blends retail with a casual bistro atmosphere. —Chris Malloy, Bon Appetit Magazine, 14 Apr. 2026

Dine Al Fresco At Mozelle's Mozelle's is a modern Southern bistro known for using regional ingredients in elevated ways. —Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 14 Apr. 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