bistro

[ bis-troh; French bee-stroh ]

noun

, plural bis·tros [bis, -trohz, bee-, stroh].

1. a small, modest, European-style restaurant or caf é.
2. a small nightclub or restaurant.

bistro

/ ˈbiːstrəʊ /

noun

1. a small restaurant

Word History and Origins

Origin of bistro¹

1920–25; < French bistro ( t ), originally argot, first attested in the sense “proprietor of a tavern” (1884); of obscure origin

Word History and Origins

Origin of bistro¹

French: of obscure origin; perhaps from Russian bistro fast

Example Sentences

That’s when the hotel team dresses the roofless structure up with bistro lights and candles and invites an eclectic mix of musicians to play under the stars.

From Los Angeles Times

An Afghan bistro is our version of a cozy and comfortable French bistro-but with Afghan food.

From Salon

It was also a moment to illustrate that sipping coffee at a cafe or wine in a bistro was as integral to the capital’s cultural heritage as its most famous landmarks.

From New York Times

The 20-seat bistro comes with a standing room only bar counter and additional seating in the courtyard.

From Seattle Times

Fans can also hit the other Machiavelli bistro that opened in downtown Edmonds in December.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• lounge
• restaurant
• tavern