B1English🍽️

Making a Restaurant Reservation

You can use these helpful phrases when you want to book a table at a local restaurant.

Key Phrases

I would like to book a table for four people for tomorrow evening, please.

💡 Use this polite phrase when you make your first contact with the restaurant staff.

Do you have any tables available at seven o'clock on Friday night?

💡 This is a useful way to ask about a specific time for your dinner.

Could we please have a table by the window if there is one free?

💡 This polite request will help you get a nicer view during your meal.

One of our guests is allergic to nuts, so we need a safe menu.

💡 You must explain any dangerous food allergies to the staff before you order food.

We have decided to celebrate a birthday, so could we bring our own cake?

💡 Some restaurants will charge a small fee if you bring your own dessert.

I have already booked a table, but I need to change the booking time.

💡 Use this if you might arrive later than the time you originally chose.

Could we please change the reservation from four people to six people instead?

💡 It is best to call the restaurant early if your group size changes.

I am calling to confirm our reservation for tonight under the name of Smith.

💡 Confirming your booking will ensure that the restaurant keeps your table for you.

If we are fifteen minutes late, will you still keep the table for us?

💡 This first conditional question helps you understand the restaurant's policy on late arrivals.

Practice Dialogue

Customer
Good afternoon, I would like to book a table for four people for tomorrow evening.
Staff
Of course, we can certainly do that for you if we have a table free.
Customer
We prefer to eat at seven o'clock, but we could arrive slightly later if necessary.
Staff
We have a table available at seven thirty, which is a very popular time.
Customer
That is perfect, but one guest has a gluten allergy so they need special food.
Staff
Our chef has prepared many gluten-free dishes, so your guest will eat very safely.
Customer
Thank you, and I will confirm that the reservation is under the name Smith.
Staff
We have noted all your details, and we will see you tomorrow evening, Mr. Smith.

More Eating & Drinking Out (B1)

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