Ordering at a Restaurant
Use these practical phrases to communicate smoothly when dining out, ordering dishes, and requesting recommendations in Spanish-speaking restaurants.
Key Phrases
Me gustaría reservar una mesa que esté cerca de la ventana para cenar esta noche.
I would like to reserve a table that is near the window for dinner tonight.
💡 Useful for requesting a specific table location using a polite conditional verb.
¿Qué platos nos recomienda que probemos si es la primera vez que venimos aquí?
What dishes do you recommend that we try if it is the first time we come here?
💡 A polite way to ask for recommendations, which triggers the present subjunctive.
Como no como carne, prefiero un plato vegetariano que tenga ingredientes locales y frescos.
Since I do not eat meat, I prefer a vegetarian dish that has local and fresh ingredients.
💡 Specifies dietary restrictions with a relative clause.
Para empezar, queremos compartir una ración de croquetas y, de segundo, pediré el pescado del día.
To start, we want to share a portion of croquettes and, for the main course, I will order the fish of the day.
💡 Ideal for distinguishing between starters and main courses.
Me gustaría pedir la carne al punto, pero es importante que no esté demasiado hecha.
I would like to order the meat medium-rare, but it is important that it is not overcooked.
💡 'Al punto' is the standard term for medium-rare.
¿Podría traernos la carta de vinos para elegir una botella que combine bien con la cena?
Could you bring us the wine list to choose a bottle that pairs well with the dinner?
💡 Uses the conditional 'podría' to politely request the wine menu.
Disculpe, ¿nos podría traer un poco más de pan y una botella de agua fría, por favor?
Excuse me, could you bring us a bit more bread and a bottle of cold water, please?
💡 A standard and polite request for table essentials.
¿Es posible que nos traiga la cuenta cuando tenga un momento libre, por favor?
Is it possible for you to bring us the bill when you have a free moment, please?
💡 Triggers the subjunctive 'tenga' for a polite, non-demanding tone.
Nos ha gustado mucho la comida y consideramos que este restaurante es el mejor de la ciudad.
We liked the food very much and we consider this restaurant to be the best in the city.
💡 A nice compliment using a superlative structure.