Eatery: meaning, definitions and examples

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eatery

[ˈiːtəri ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

restaurant

A small, informal restaurant or cafe where meals are served. Eatery is a casual term for a place where people can eat food, especially a simple meal.

Synonyms

bistro, cafe, diner, restaurant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
eatery	Used as a general term for any place where food is served. It is less specific and can refer to anything from a fast food joint to a fancy restaurant. Let's find a nearby eatery for lunch. There are many eateries in this neighborhood.
restaurant	A broad term for any establishment that serves meals and drinks, usually with a higher level of service and a more varied menu than an eatery. It can range from casual to very upscale. They have a reservation at a fancy restaurant tonight. The restaurant downtown has excellent seafood.
cafe	Typically refers to a small, casual place that serves coffee, tea, and light snacks. Often used for places where people can sit and relax, sometimes with outdoor seating. Let's grab a coffee at the cafe. The cafe on the corner has great pastries.
diner	Usually refers to a small, casual restaurant that offers simple, inexpensive meals, and often has a nostalgic, 1950s American style. We stopped at a roadside diner for breakfast. The local diner serves the best burgers.
bistro	Suggests a small, casual restaurant that serves moderately priced meals. Often has a European or French style and a relaxed atmosphere. We had dinner at a cozy bistro downtown. This bistro is known for its delicious wine and cheese pairings.

Examples of usage

The new eatery down the street serves delicious sandwiches.
We decided to grab a quick bite at the local eatery.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

Any place where food is prepared and served for consumption.

Synonyms

dining place, food establishment, kitchen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
eatery	Refers to casual places where food is served. It can be used for restaurants, cafes, or diners in a more informal setting. Let's check out the new eatery downtown for lunch.
food establishment	A broad, formal term that includes any place where food is prepared and sold, such as restaurants, cafes, and even food trucks. Often used in business or regulatory contexts. The food establishment passed its health inspection with flying colors.
dining place	A general term for any location where meals are served, often used in a more formal or neutral context. Suitable for both casual and upscale establishments. We went to a lovely dining place by the lake for our anniversary.
kitchen	Typically refers to the room or area where food is prepared, either in a home or in a professional setting like a restaurant. It can be used metaphorically to describe the culinary capabilities of a place. She spent all day in the kitchen preparing a feast for the family.

Examples of usage

I love exploring different local eateries when I travel.
He runs a small eatery out of his home.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'eatery' started showing up in the English language in the early 20th century.
It combines 'eat' with the suffix '-ery,' which often refers to a place of activity or interest.
Similar words exist in other languages, like 'bistrô' in French, which describes a small, casual restaurant.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, eateries are central to social life, serving as places for gatherings and celebrations.
Eateries often reflect local cuisine and culture, showcasing dishes that represent the area and its traditions.
With the rise of food trucks and pop-up restaurants, the concept of an eatery is evolving to include mobile and temporary dining experiences.

Business Trends

Many eateries now focus on sustainability, using locally sourced ingredients to benefit the environment and local economy.
The rise of technology has transformed many eateries, with online ordering and delivery services becoming increasingly common.
Casual dining establishments have become popular, providing a relaxed experience while still offering high-quality meals.

Psychology

Sharing a meal at an eatery can foster a sense of community and improve relationships among friends and family.
The ambiance and design of an eatery can significantly affect diners' mood and overall dining experience.
Time spent in an eatery is often associated with relaxation, fun, and enjoyment, which contributes to positive mental well-being.

Global Variations

In Japan, izakayas are casual eateries where people enjoy drinks and small plates, emphasizing a social dining experience.
In Italy, trattorias serve traditional home-cooked meals, reflecting local family recipes and hospitality.
Street food stalls in various countries, like taco stands in Mexico or pho vendors in Vietnam, serve as informal eateries that offer delicious, quick meals.

Translations

Translations of the word "eatery" in other languages:

🇵🇹 restaurante

🇮🇳 रेस्तरां

🇩🇪 Restaurant

🇮🇩 restoran

🇺🇦 ресторан

🇵🇱 restauracja

🇯🇵 レストラン

🇫🇷 restaurant

🇪🇸 restaurante

🇹🇷 restoran

🇰🇷 식당

🇸🇦 مطعم

🇨🇿 restaurace

🇸🇰 reštaurácia

🇨🇳 餐馆

🇸🇮 restavracija

🇮🇸 veitingastaður

🇰🇿 мейрамхана

🇬🇪 რესტორანი

🇦🇿 restoran

🇲🇽 restaurante