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

Sarris recommends this small but stylish six-room hotel not far from the water, noting its design and bistro. —Michele Becker, Travel + Leisure, 4 Aug. 2025

The Statler French American bistro in downtown Detroit abruptly closes. —Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 2 Aug. 2025

They were later photographed enjoying lunch together at upscale Parisian bistro L’Avenue, joined briefly by Kim Kardashian. —Heather Hunter, The Washington Examiner, 30 July 2025

Opt for this compact bistro table set, which includes a table and two chairs designed to withstand year-round weather. —Toni Sutton, People.com, 22 July 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