The Origin and Names
A small cafe can be called a bistro, a brasserie, or a snack bar. A bistro serves simple meals, wine and coffee in a casual setting. The term brasserie is French for "brewery". A restaurant is a commercial establishment that serves food and drink.
The person who seats guests in a restaurant is called a host or hostess. To greet someone, you might say "Welcome to our restaurant!" The first restaurant opened in Paris in 1765 serving sheep’s feet in white sauce.
Different Restaurant Styles
There are different types of restaurant services. Fine dining restaurants offer an upscale meal with several courses. Family-style and casual restaurants also serve food. Small, inexpensive diners are sometimes called "greasy spoons." They serve basic American fare. Another name for a small restaurant is a "mom and pop" restaurant. These independently-owned places offer regional cuisine in a relaxed setting.
What is a small cheap restaurant called? A bistro is a small, casual restaurant or cafe that serves a menu with inexpensive, simple dishes.
Varied Terminology
What do you call different types of restaurants? Fine dining restaurants offer diners an upscale meal experience often comprising several courses. A small café can be called a bistro, a brasserie, a snack bar – each having an identity.
The name "greasy spoon" refers to the typically high-fat, high-calorie menu items such as eggs and bacon. The term has described a "small cheap restaurant" since the 1920s.
What is a French bistro called? In France, a brasserie is a type of French restaurant with a relaxed setting, serving single dishes and meals.
What was the first restaurant ever? The very first restaurant opened in Paris in 1765.
Who is the restaurant owner? A person who owns and manages a restaurant is called a restaurateur.
What do you call a small food place? An eatery is a place that serves food, like a restaurant.
What is the difference between a carinderia and a restaurant? A fast food restaurant serves fast cuisine with minimal table service. In India such a place is called a "dhaba."
What is slang for coffee? Slang terms for coffee include "cup of joe" and "java."