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

Alternatively, nearby Buffalo, New York, has vibrant hiking trails, farm-to-table bistros, craft breweries, and fall festivals that capture the spirit of the season. —Taryn White, Travel + Leisure, 30 Oct. 2025

The property’s restaurant pairs a French bistro–style menu with craft cocktails and fine wines. —AFAR Media, 30 Oct. 2025

From airy emulsions and shimmering sabayons to seductive béarnaise and brooding demi-glace, classic French sauces are reappearing—not just in fine dining restaurants and traditional bistros, but also in natural wine bars and small-plate restaurants. —Joel Hart, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2025

Romanian bistro paired with Michigan offerings set to open Friday in Former Framebar on John R in Hazel Park. —Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 23 Oct. 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