With traditional charm, the brasserie isa kind of big sister to the bistro. At its origins it was simply a brewery, making beer that could be consumed on the premises...
As time went on, the word came to designate large, typically Parisian bistros with an inimitable charm where you can dine on traditional French dishes, including onion soup, “coq au vin” and “pot au feu”.
There is even a typical brasserie atmosphere, as they are often glamorous places with remarkable decor, temples to art deco. The finest ones are to be found in the Montparnasse area, in the Place Clichy and around the main stations. Everybody who is anybody in Paris heads there go and join them!