14 Phrases for Ordering Food at a Restaurant
Ordering food in English becomes easy and stress-free when you know the right phrases. These 14 phrases for ordering food at a restaurant will help you speak clearly, politely, and confidently—from reading the menu to asking for the bill. Whether you’re traveling, dining out with friends, or practicing for real-life situations, these expressions are your go-to toolkit.
Common Ways to Order, Ask, and Request
Starting Your Order
- I’d like… The most polite and common way to place an order. I’d like the grilled salmon, please.
- I’ll have… Slightly more casual but still perfectly acceptable. I’ll have the mushroom pasta.
- Can I get…? Very common in U.S. restaurants—friendly and natural. Can I get a coffee and the avocado toast?
- Could I order…? Extra polite—great for formal settings or when you’re unsure. Could I order the chicken curry, please?
Asking Questions About the Menu
- What do you recommend? Lets the server guide you—very common and natural. What do you recommend from the seafood section?
- Is this dish spicy? Essential for dietary preferences or allergies. Is this dish spicy? I can’t handle too much heat.
- Does this contain nuts? Important for safety and allergies. Does this contain nuts? I have an allergy.
- Can I see the dessert menu? Polite way to explore options after your meal. Can I see the dessert menu, please?
Making Special Requests
- Could I have that without onions? Clear and polite for modifications. Could I have that without onions? I’m not a fan.
- Can I get this to go? Common in casual U.S. restaurants for takeout. Can I get this to go? I’m in a hurry.
- Could you make it a little less salty? Respectful way to adjust flavor. I’m watching my sodium—could you make it a little less salty?
Finishing Your Meal
- Could we get the check, please? The standard, polite way to ask for the bill. Could we get the check, please?
- Is service included? Helpful to ask before tipping in the U.S. or abroad. Is service included, or should I add a tip?
Real-Life Dialogues
Server: Are you ready to order?
You: Yes, I’d like the vegetable stir-fry. Could I have that without chili?
Server: Of course! Anything to drink?
You: Can I get iced tea, please?
Friend: This place is great! What do you recommend?
You: The lamb curry—it’s amazing. Just ask, “Could I order the lamb curry?”
Friend: Thanks! And after dinner, I’ll say, “Could we get the check, please?”
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Placing your main order | I’d like… | Polite, clear, and universally accepted in all settings. |
| Ordering takeout | Can I get this to go? | Casual and standard in U.S. diners and cafes. |
| Asking about ingredients | Does this contain nuts? | Direct, necessary, and shows you’re being responsible. |
| Requesting the bill | Could we get the check, please? | Polite and the most common phrase used by native speakers. |
Practice Tip
Practice ordering your favorite meal out loud using one of these phrases—say it like you’re talking to a real server! The more you rehearse, the more confident you’ll feel.
Why This Matters
- Using these 14 phrases for ordering food at a restaurant builds real-world confidence in travel, dining, and social situations.
- It helps you avoid confusion, enjoy your meal, and show respect to restaurant staff.
- Mastering everyday dialogues like this is key to sounding fluent—not textbook-perfect, but naturally comfortable.
Now you’re ready to order like a local! Try using one of these 14 phrases for ordering food at a restaurant on your next visit—or even in a language exchange. Bon appétit and happy learning! 😊
