Bistro: meaning, definitions and examples

A small, casual restaurant that typically serves simple, homestyle meals. Often associated with French cuisine but can be more general.

• We decided to grab a quick lunch at the local bistro
• Her favorite bistro serves the best quiche Lorraine in town

A small and casual place that mainly serves drinks like coffee or tea, along with light snacks and simple meals. Often a place for socializing or working.

• She likes to spend her afternoons working at a cozy cafe
• They met for a quick coffee at the cafe around the corner

A large, bustling restaurant with slightly more formal settings than a bistro, offering a wide variety of dishes. Originates from French culture.

• We enjoyed a wonderful dinner at the brasserie downtown
• He took her to a well-known brasserie for their anniversary

A generic term for any place where food is served. It can be used for casual or fast food places, not specific to any cuisine.

• We found a small eatery that serves amazing sandwiches
• The new eatery in town has become very popular among students