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

Taste of Belgium's bistros in Over-the-Rhine, The Banks, Rookwood, Beavercreek, Miamisburg, and Findlay Market remain open. —Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 4 Sep. 2024

Its comfortable neighborhood vibe surrounds a menu featuring an array of French bistro and Italian trattoria classics plus offerings of American fare. —Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press, 16 Aug. 2024

His first restaurant debuted in 1995, its bistro menu blending Californian, Italian, French and Asian flavors to wide acclaim for chef Neal Fraser. —Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 30 July 2024

Every month, the menu at this cozy bistro takes inspiration from one of Poland’s 16 regions. —Kasia Dietz, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2024

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