# bistro

/ˈbɪstɹoʊ/ (US) · /bˈiːstɹəʊ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bistro
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. a small restaurant

noun · CEFR B2

a small, relaxed restaurant where you can get simple meals and wine.

For teachers: a small, informal establishment serving moderately priced meals and alcoholic beverages, typically in a French style.

- We found a lovely little bistro near the hotel that served excellent onion soup.
- The neighborhood bistro gained a loyal following by offering seasonal French classics in a setting that felt both intimate and unpretentious.

### 2. to eat at a bistro

verb · CEFR C2 · Informal

to have a meal at a bistro.

For teachers: to dine at a bistro; this verbal usage is rare and typically found in literary or highly informal contexts.

- They spent the evening bistroing through the streets of Paris.
- After a long day of sightseeing, the couple spent their final evening bistroing along the Seine, enjoying the local wine and atmosphere.

## Examples

- We had a quick lunch at the local bistro.
- The neighborhood bistro is famous for its steak frites and cozy outdoor seating area.
- While the city offers many high-end dining options, this charming bistro remains a favorite for those seeking authentic regional flavors without the pretension of a Michelin-starred establishment.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.