Literary notes about bistro (AI summary)
The term bistro is often used in literature to evoke a relaxed yet culturally rich setting, one that is steeped in both French tradition and modern urban life. In its earliest use, it even refers to the proprietor of a wine-shop, underscoring a historical connection to intimate social spaces [1]. Over time, bistros become the backdrop for nocturnal retreats and revelatory moments, where characters seek solace, celebrate, or even embark on unlikely adventures after dark [2][3]. They also serve as settings for lively gatherings and spirited encounters, whether it’s a planned celebration or an unexpected meeting tucked away near renowned landmarks [4][5][6]. Additionally, bistros are portrayed with evocative detail and local color, enhancing the atmosphere with descriptions that capture the ambiance of these intimate locales [7].
- Bistro , bistrot , m. (popular), landlord of wine-shop .
— from Argot and Slang A New French and English Dictionary of the Cant Words, Quaint Expressions, Slang Terms and Flash Phrases Used in the High and Low Life of Old and New Paris by Albert Barrère - At night, I fear, I fight for breath, And wake up whiter than a spook; And crawl off to a bistro near, And drink until my brain is clear.
— from Ballads of a Bohemian by Robert W. (Robert William) Service - “The only place I ever had it better was at a bistro in Nice on this last permission.”
— from Three Soldiers by John Dos Passos - I know just the bistro to throw a whing-ding when we get—" "I'm not going back," Chapman said.
— from The Reluctant Heroes by Frank M. Robinson - Now one day in a bistro that's behind the Place Vendôme I came on Julot the apache , and Gigolette his môme .
— from Ballads of a Bohemian by Robert W. (Robert William) Service - There's that little French bistro on Hudson Street ."
— from Syndrome by Thomas Hoover - Chez le bistro, parmi les bancs empouacrés, Le billard somnolent et les garçons vautrés, Rougit la pucelette aux gants de filoselle.
— from The Book of Masks by Remy de Gourmont
