restaurant

American  

[res-tuh-rahnt, -trahnt] / ˈrɛs təˌrɑnt, -trɑnt /

noun

1. an establishment where meals are served to customers.

---

restaurant British  

/ ˈrɛstrɒŋ, -rɒnt, ˈrɛstəˌrɒŋ /

noun

1. a commercial establishment where meals are prepared and served to customers

---

Etymology

Origin of restaurant

An Americanism first recorded in 1820–30; from French, noun use of present participle of restaurer, from Latin restaurāre “to restore, reestablish”; re- ( def. ), store

Compare meaning

How does restaurant compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• bistro vs. restaurant

Example Sentences

“We expect an improved restaurant sector setup into ’26 following significant pressures in ’25, believing upside exists from effective stimulus benefits, easy comparisons and attractive valuations,” they said.

From MarketWatch

After The Wall Street Journal published a story on the restaurant, the state parks agency told the couple it would explore all viable options to bring back the Reel Inn and other businesses.

From The Wall Street Journal

When the restaurant hosts its weekday happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m.,

From The Wall Street Journal

The line at the Original Saugus Cafe counter stretched down the block Sunday morning as dozens of diners showed up for a final taste of the restaurant.

From Los Angeles Times

The crash occurred at lunchtime, but despite the chaotic scene, no injuries were reported among restaurant staff, patrons or the driver, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bar
• cafeteria
• coffee shop
• diner
• dining room
• inn
• outlet
• saloon