A1noun1K

Restaurant

UK /["/ˈrestrɒnt/"]/US /["/ˈrestrɑːnt//ˈrestərɑːnt/"]/

Definition

a place where you can buy and eat a meal

In simple words: A place where you can buy and eat meals.

Examples

  • We decided to go to a restaurant for dinner.
  • There's a new Italian restaurant in town.
  • The restaurant was very busy last night.
  • Our favorite restaurant serves the best pizza.

Usage notes

Use 'restaurant' in everyday conversation when talking about places to eat. It's suitable for any setting, but avoid using it in very formal texts where you might prefer 'dining establishment'.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'rest' in 'restaurant'—a place to rest and enjoy good food.

Collocations

  • large
  • little
  • small
  • go out to
  • go to
  • visit
  • offer something
  • serve something
  • specialize in something
  • employee
  • manager
  • operator
  • at a/​the restaurant
  • in a/​the restaurant

Synonyms

  • eatery
  • bistro
  • diner
  • café
  • brasserie

Antonyms

  • home
  • kitchen

Common mistakes

  • Saying 'the restaurant' when referring to restaurants in general.
  • Confusing with 'café', which usually serves lighter meals.
  • Mispronouncing the second syllable, often saying it too quickly.