Ordering at a Restaurant
Use these phrases when you are talking to staff to get a table, order your meal, and pay at a restaurant.
Key Phrases
Do you have a table for two?
neutralWe would like a table for two, please.
politeWe still need a few more minutes to decide.
neutralWhat are you going to get?
casualUsed when asking the person you are eating with what they will order.
What's good here?
neutralA common and natural way to ask the server for their opinion.
What do you recommend?
politeI think I'll go with the roast chicken.
neutralI would like the grilled salmon, please.
politeDoes this dish contain any nuts?
neutralI'll just stick with tap water for now.
neutralUsed when you do not want to order a different drink right away.
Could we get a bottle of sparkling water, please?
politeExcuse me, I think there is a small mistake with my order.
politeCan I get a box for the rest of this?
neutralUS phrasing; used to take home uneaten food.
Could I have this packed up to take away, please?
politeUK phrasing; used to take home uneaten food.
Can I get the check, please?
neutralUS phrasing; asking to pay at the end of the meal.
Could we have the bill, please?
politeUK phrasing; asking to pay at the end of the meal.