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

Add a pop of color to your outdoor space with this vibrant bistro set. —Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 8 Oct. 2025

After nearly a year of reviews, Chez Fonfon, a Birmingham French bistro, still has his favorite burger. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 5 Oct. 2025

Afro-Atlantic inspirations get a Gallic accent, with a menu retaining the tenets of Paris bistro and café fare, revisited with touches of the American South’s culinary hallmarks such as okra, pecans and corn. —Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2025

The celebratory luxury at the nostalgic Parisian bistro lies, however, in the pâté en croûte, pommes soufflées with caviar, the île flottante, and most of all, the tête de veau ravigote. —The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 29 Sep. 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