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

Think of it as a harmonious haven under one roof: a restaurant, bistro, tea room, cocktail spot, and venue for everything from business lunches to romantic dinners. —Jenn Rice, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024

Large French doors provide a warm welcome into the house, while an oversized front porch — that begs to be furnished with a bistro table and rocking chairs — encourages you to linger while enjoying your morning coffee or watching the sunset. —Maggie Horton, People.com, 29 Nov. 2024

There’s a mid-century-modern one ($165), one with a Bauhaus feel ($76), and an adorable glass candle-warmer lamp ($75) that reminds me of a Parisian bistro table. —Rachel Syme, The New Yorker, 26 Nov. 2024

Zip it on for a winter expedition, or for that first date at the bistro. —Frederick Reimers, Outside Online, 31 Oct. 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