The Definition of a Bistrot

The origins of the word bistro is unclear, some say it originated from the Russian word bystro (быстро), meaning quickly and entered the French language during the Russian occupation of Paris in 1815.

Whilst others say it derived from a type of aperitif called a bistrouille, a liqueur coffee.

Suggested to have developed in Parisian apartments where tenants paid for both room and board.

Landlords were able to supplement their income by opening their kitchen to the paying public serving home cooked foods that were simple and hearty accompanied by wine and coffee.

Traditional French bistro's have long developed into friendly café's and cosy small restaurants.

Whilst their much loved imagine is that which remains in the mid-1900’s.

Bistrot Les Tontons

Place Saint Pierre
49400 Saumur
Tel : 02 41 59 59 40

The Square, Mayfair, London (2 Michelin Stars), is referencing our wines !

Ten Green Bottles (Founders: Sam Devaney, Simon Broad & Gérald Beaumont) whose impressive roster of restaurant clients includes: The Fat Duck, The Ledbury and Hix, continue their objective of introducing undiscovered and little known French wines of outstanding quality, character and regional expression.

This week the latest restaurant to reference two of our wines is The Square (1988-2012 Two Michelin Stars), Mayfair, London, W1J 6PU. The two wines to be referenced are :

Domaine de la Paleine Saumur blanc 'Arietta'
and
Domaine Thomas Sancerre 'Ultimus'

Both of these superb wines can be found, savouried alongside traditional bistro fair or purchased directly at Bistrot Les Tontons in Place Saint Pierre, located in the heart of Saumur.