IPA: /ˌɛstəˈmɪnɛt/
KK: /ɛstəˈmɪnɛt/
A small café, often serving drinks and light meals, typically in a casual setting.
We decided to meet at the estaminet for a cup of coffee and a chat.
Estaminet comes from the French word 'estaminet', which is a diminutive form of 'estamin', meaning a small inn or tavern. The term is derived from the Middle Dutch 'stamine', meaning a place where drinks are served. Thus, 'estaminet' refers to a small establishment serving food and drink, often in a casual setting.
Imagine a cozy little inn where you can enjoy drinks and food — that's what an 'estaminet' is, a small tavern.