a small, casual restaurant or bar that serves simple food and drinks, usually with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
From French 'bistro', possibly from Russian 'bystro' (quickly), referring to quick service. The word became popular during Russian occupation of France in 1815.
The word might come from Russian soldiers telling French servers 'bystro!' (quickly!), and it stuck around to describe these casual eateries—so a modern bistro might have a Russian military origin!
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