Foodie Inspiration

What is a bistro restaurant?

Looking to broaden your dining horizons? Get familiar with the ‘je ne sais quoi’ offered by a bistro.

Tom Pressman

15-09-2025

What is a bistro?

We’ve all seen the French films with those quaint little eateries. The kinds that have visitors casually sat beside round tables, looking out onto the scenic Parisian streets, typically enjoying a coffee, a cocktail, or even a cigarette. This is what you could consider a Bistro! These French restaurants are popular for their intimate, ambient atmosphere and authentic menus offering a real taste of France. With time, however, the idea of bistros has definitely diversified, often delivering a range of casual European dishes.

What is a bistro restaurant in the UK?

One of the most famous bistros across the UK is actually a chain restaurant. That’s Café Rouge, of course, famous for its take on classic French cooking. But there are also plenty of independent restaurants across the UK that put their unique spin on Bistro-style food:

Bistro Pierre: A rustic Liverpool restaurant offering a range of delicious European dishes that are just as perfect for a casual lunch as it is for a romantic dinner. (You can enjoy 25% off the total bill with tastecard.)

Alcedo Bistro & Bar: This spot is famous for its quality service and even better variety of European dishes. A London restaurant, Alcedo transports visitors directly to Paris. (Tuck into 25% off the total bill with tastecard.)

Baytree Bistro & Bar: In Retford, Baytree offers a British take on the bistro, with its country aesthetic and varied menu. (Get 25% off Baytree Bistro & Bar with tastecard.)

Blue Bird Bistro and Bar: Another Liverpool bistro, Blue Bird is a family-owned, independent restaurant that puts heart into everything it does. Discover a wide variety of cuisines at this must-visit spot. (Enjoy 25% off your total menu at Blue Bird.)

What is bistro food?

If you’re not familiar with French cuisine, you may have no idea what awaits you on a bistro menu. Whether you’re just sitting down for a light bite or enjoying a complete three-course meal, we’ve got plenty of suggestions to make sure that you do your bistro visit correctly!

Charcuterie board filled with cheese, fruits and meats

Starters and sharers.

Let’s go into some detail on the types of food you can expect from a bistro-style restaurant, starting, of course, with the starters.

A complete staple when it comes to bistro starters is the ‘French Onion Soup’ dish, often served with some fresh bread for dipping. You’ll find this exact dish on the Café Rouge menu, along with ‘Garlic Mushrooms’, ‘King Prawns’, and many others.

If you’re just planning to stop off for some wine or a coffee, you might be tempted by the idea of a charcuterie board somewhere along the way. Baytree Bistro & Bar has a delicious menu of grazing boards, perfect for sharing over a catch-up.

Couple raising their wine glasses of red wine to a cheers with their dinner out of focus in the background of the shot

La pièce de résistance.

As for your mains at bistro restaurants, there are endless French dishes that could be on your menu. We’re a particular fan of the ‘Beef Bourginon’, a dish available at both Bistro Pierre and Café Rouge! We’re also fond of Café Rouge’s ‘Duck Confit,’ served with potatoes, spinach, and morello cherry & thyme jus!

In true French style, you may also find mussels on your menu - something well worth trying if you’ve never experienced them before.

Everyone is different, but since we’re here making recommendations, we have to suggest washing down your main with the perfect glass of wine (or two). Ask your server for the wine menu and don’t be scared to describe precisely what you’re looking for from your bottle! Do you like it sweet, dry, or spicy? Certain wines may even complement the flavour of your meal.

vegan blood orange desert with powdered sugar

Bistro desserts.

If there’s one thing about the French, it’s that they know how to do a dessert! Lovers of custard should keep an eye out on the menu for the Crème Brûlée. Those who tend to sway towards chocolate, however, may find themselves spoiled for choice. From profiteroles and mousse to chocolate fondant, the sweet-toothed folks amongst us may even fancy visiting a bistro for just the final course!

Close up shot of Baytree Bistro and Bar's pie and thick cut wedges dressed in seasoning.

Visit bistros in the UK with tastecard.

Now that we’ve introduced you to the idea of bistros, we’re confident that you’ll be keen to plan your visit. Download the tastecard app today to discover even more bistros dotted around the UK, as well as your local spot. Book your table today and look forward to enjoying our selection of restaurant deals.