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

His French Midwestern bistro was supposed to open in Time Out Market at the end of 2025, but when the market abruptly closed, Hunter needed to find a stand-alone space of his own. — Kate Kassin, Bon Appetit Magazine, 23 Sep. 2026

Their picks range from fresh seafood to old-school trattorias, sushi spots, classic bistros, and more. — Anna Grace Lee, Vogue, 22 Sep. 2026

The weeklong promotion highlights a wide range of cuisines, from steakhouses and seafood restaurants to taverns, bistros and international dining destinations. — Jane Imbody, Cincinnati Enquirer, 19 Sep. 2026

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

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