Whether you’re in the cosmopolitan heart of Paris or a charming provincial town, you’ll be enticed by an array of dining experiences, each reflecting a facet of France’s celebrated culinary heritage. After all, French restaurants don’t just serve meals; they deliver narratives of history, culture, and artistry on a plate.

From the rustic warmth of a country ‘Auberge’ to the convivial atmosphere of the urban ‘Bistrot’, each type of French restaurant offers a unique dining experience within a bracket of price points. So what’s the difference between a restaurant “gastronomique” and a brasserie?

Here’s 11 terms you need to know.

Auberge
An “Auberge” is a term denoting an inn or lodge. Its roots trace back to medieval Europe, where auberges served as refuges for pilgrims and weary travelers, providing rest, food, and wine. Over time, the role of auberges evolved, and today they are recognized for their top-tier, rustic cuisine, offering a unique blend of comfort and refinement. With their quaint, idyllic charm and warm ambiance, auberges have become embodiments of provincial hospitality.

See also: Did you know the Michelin Guide has an award for good, affordable restaurants?

Bistro
A “Bistrot” or “Bistro” refers to a small, casual eatery, a concept that originated in Paris in the late 19th century. Initially created to offer affordable dining for the growing ranks of city workers during the Industrial Revolution, bistrots are famed for their cozy atmosphere, congenial service, and menu dominated by French comfort foods. Over the years, they have retained their spirit of unpretentious conviviality and stand as culinary landmarks of Parisian life.

Boui-boui
The term “Boui-boui” is French colloquialism referring to a modest, often run-down, establishment, typically offering inexpensive food and drink. Emerging from the grittier corners of French culture, boui-bouis might lack the polish of their more upscale counterparts, but they are cherished for the authenticity they offer. Often family-run, these establishments provide a slice of everyday local life and cuisine, making them attractive to seekers of genuine cultural experiences.

Bouillon
In the world of cuisine, “Bouillon” is a broth derived from simmering meat, poultry, fish, or vegetables. The term also refers to a type of Parisian restaurant that emerged in the 19th century. These establishments offered affordable, simple meals, with bouillon as a foundational dish. Bouillon restaurants played an important role in democratizing restaurant dining in Paris, providing nourishing, home-style meals to a burgeoning urban populace.

Bougnat
Historically, a “Bougnat” was an Auvergnat migrant to Paris, who typically ran a business selling coal and wine. This term evolved from the combination of ‘bougnat’ (coal merchant) and ‘café’, as many of these establishments gradually transformed into cafes during the early 20th century. Today, a “Café-Bougnat” often refers to a Parisian café where you can also buy wine and coal, serving as a nostalgic nod to this unique slice of the city’s history.

See also: What is the Gault et Millau and how does the rating system work?

Brasserie
A “Brasserie” is a type of large, informal French restaurant, with its origins dating back to the mid-19th century in Alsace, where beer was brewed on-site (the term ‘brasserie’ translates as ‘brewery’). Traditionally, brasseries offered hearty Alsatian dishes alongside their beer, providing a comfortable space for relaxed dining. While the range of food and drinks has expanded significantly, the vibrant, unpretentious atmosphere that originally defined them remains intact.

Café
The term “Café” signifies a place that offers coffee, other drinks, and light meals. The concept took root in 17th-century Europe, evolving into hubs for social interaction, intellectual discourse, and artistic expression. The café culture of France is particularly noteworthy, offering not just nourishment but also a platform for vibrant intellectual and artistic communities. Cafés in Paris, especially, have been historically associated with writers, philosophers, and artists.

Gargote
A “Gargote” is a French term with historical roots in the 18th century, used to describe a budget restaurant or eatery that often fell short on quality and service. It provided affordable, simple fare to the less affluent urban populace. Over time, the term has retained a somewhat pejorative connotation, symbolizing establishments that offer value at the expense of fine dining standards.

See also: What is the Meilleur Ouvrier de France?

Gastronomique
“Gastronomique” is a term intrinsically linked with the art and pleasure of good eating, an important part of the French concept of ‘gastronomy’. The term gained prominence in the 19th century with the advent of culinary guidebooks and restaurant reviews. Today, “gastronomique” implies a level of culinary excellence, often associated with innovative, refined cuisine, meticulous presentation, and professional service. It stands as a symbol of the high esteem in which the French hold their culinary heritage.

Guinguette
A “Guinguette” was a popular drinking establishment, often located along the rivers in the suburbs of Paris and other French cities. Emerging in the 18th century, these lively locales, typically featuring live music and dance, reached their peak popularity from the late 19th to the early 20th century. They served as recreational retreats for the working class, offering a break from the city’s bustle and an opportunity to engage in carefree merriment.

Taverne
A “Taverne” is akin to a tavern or public house. Its origins stretch back to antiquity when such establishments functioned as focal points of community life, offering food, drinks, and sometimes lodging. In the context of modern France, a taverne typically provides traditional, hearty fare in an informal setting. Maintaining their historic role, tavernes continue to serve as gathering places that foster social interaction over good food and drink.