A bistro is a French-inspired restaurant serving affordable, modest fare in a casual setting that has become increasingly popular in the United States in the last two decades. Diners are attracted to the relaxed atmosphere where most patrons aren't wearing designer clothes and don't feel awkward about engaging in spirited conversations. Even with a casual mood, however, bistros don't take anything for granted when it comes to the dishes they serve. Patrons may expect to eat less extravagantly prepared foods than those in fine-dining establishments; however, they also expect bistro dishes to be outstanding in quality and presentation.

If you're starting your own bistro, you don't need to reinvent the wheel. Uncover the elements that have made other bistros successful and use these ideas to develop your own style. Start your search to uncover the secrets of well-known bistros in some obvious places:

1. Create an authentic menu serving traditional bistro food.

2. Find a reliable bistro list of wines that loyal customers prefer.

3. Set the mood with traditional bistro-inspired decor.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Focus on serving traditional bistro dishes with your unique presentation

Bistro patrons expect to always find certain dishes on the menu: coq au vin, sole meuniere, French fried potatoes and cassoulet. Individualize these foods by combining different ingredients and presenting them in new ways.

I recommend: Artisanal Fromagerie & Bistro gets top ratings as a French bistro provider in New York City that offers exquisitely prepared authentic foods. Check out the lunch and dinner menus of Main Street Bistro in New York, Bistro 1896 in North Carolina and Hammersley's Bistro in Massachusetts for descriptions of their standard menu items and daily specials.

Make sure to offer a good selection of imported French wines at your bistro

Patrons still expect that the wine list at bistros leans heavily toward French imports.

I recommend: The menu at Bistro Les Amis includes an impressive wine list that has made the restaurant a premier eating establishment in New York City. Also in New York is Le Jardin Bistro, which offers wine by the bottle or the glass.

Find bistro furniture to create a cozy atmosphere

There is a distinctive style to bistro furniture: small folding tables for two, natural wood folding chairs, patio umbrellas and baker's racks stacked with traditional French dinnerware and linen.

I recommend: American Country Home Store can help you furnish your bistro with bistro sets manufactured in France. Contact Bistro Tables and Bases.com for a wide selection of bistro furniture in wood, aluminum and steel. The company guarantees its items for one year from the date of delivery.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Consider opening your bistro for breakfast as well as for lunch and dinner. Serve French quiches and egg platters, which offer a refreshing change from traditional diner-style breakfasts.
• •  Contact food critics at major newspapers and magazines for specific bistro information and perhaps a bistro directory in your area.