To the casual diner, there may not be much of a difference between a bistro and a brasserie. Both are French restaurant concepts, but they differ in a few key ways. If you want to understand the difference first-hand, one restaurant in Baton Rouge is currently transitioning from a bistro to a brasserie. The former Bistro Byronz at 515 Mouton St. is currently undergoing renovations to become Brasserie Byronz. The renovations are expected to last through the first three weeks of September, culminating in a relaunch at the end of the month. What Now New Orleans has reached out for more information.
The word “brasserie” comes from the French word for brewery. As such, it is typically larger than a bistro and more open. It’s also typically associated with beer and a large menu that focuses on hearty food. By comparison, bistros typically have a smaller menu that focuses on classic French dishes and regional specialties.
