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

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, 12 Sep. 2026

There are two full-service eateries—a Mediterranean spot, Muze Lounge & Terrasse, and a French bistro, Commodore Restaurant—as well as an indoor pool and a dry sauna where guests can luxuriate. — Morgan Goldberg, Architectural Digest, 11 Sep. 2026

That restaurant is Faux, a neo-bistro that opened a few days ago on Church Street—just steps away from many galleries on White Street. — Nate Freeman, Vanity Fair, 11 Sep. 2026

Its late founder, Sam Nakanishi, named his new spot in honor of his wife Aiko’s hometown, and the original bistro (and a second location) are still owned and operated by the Nakanishi family. — Catherine Garcia, TheWeek, 10 Sep. 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