When dining out in Germany, it’s helpful to know key vocabulary and phrases to navigate menus, order food, and interact with restaurant staff. This list covers common terms for meals, drinks, and typical expressions used in restaurants at the A1-A2 level.
At the Restaurant
The correct term is 'das Restaurant.'
The word for 'menu' is 'die Speisekarte.'
- das Restaurant – restaurant
- die Speisekarte – menu
- der Kellner / die Kellnerin – waiter / waitress
- der Tisch – table
- die Reservierung – reservation
- die Rechnung – bill / check
Common Phrases
Wir möchten bitte bestellen.
Die Rechnung, bitte.' and 'Können wir zahlen?' are common ways to ask for the bill.
- Ich hätte gern… – I would like…
- Könnten wir die Speisekarte haben? – Could we have the menu?
- Einen Moment, bitte. – One moment, please.
- Die Rechnung, bitte. – The bill, please.
- Ist das Gericht vegetarisch? – Is this dish vegetarian?
Ordering Food
Ich bin allergisch gegen Nüsse.
- Vorspeise – starter / appetizer
- Hauptgericht – main course
- Nachspeise / Dessert – dessert
- Getränke – drinks
- Wasser (mit / ohne Kohlensäure) – water (with / without gas)
- Ich bin allergisch gegen… – I am allergic to…
Sample Menu Items
'Sauerbraten' and 'Bratwurst mit Sauerkraut' are typical main dishes. 'Apfelstrudel' is a dessert.
- Suppe – soup
- Salat – salad
- Steak – steak
- Fisch – fish
- Gemüse – vegetables
- Bratwurst – fried sausage
- Schnitzel – breaded meat cutlet
- Apfelstrudel – apple strudel
Drinks
- Kaffee – coffee
- Tee – tea
- Bier – beer
- Wein – wine
- Saft – juice
- Limonade – soda / lemonade
Conclusion
Knowing essential dining-out vocabulary and phrases makes the experience smoother and more enjoyable when visiting German restaurants.
- Master key terms for menus, roles, and typical dishes.
- Practice polite phrases for ordering and requesting the bill.
- Recognize common food categories and allergens to avoid misunderstandings.