Common Phrases
When you are eating out in a Spanish-speaking country, knowing some basic phrases can make your experience much easier. Words like "la cuenta" (the bill), "el menú" (the menu), and "una mesa para dos" (a table for two) will help you communicate quickly and politely with the staff.
Ordering Food
Ordering in a restaurant involves phrases like "Quisiera" (I would like) or "Para mí, ..." (For me, ...). You can say "¿Qué recomienda?" to ask the waiter for recommendations. Don’t forget to ask for "sin gluten" or "vegetariano" if you have dietary preferences.
Asking About Ingredients
It’s useful to know how to inquire about ingredients. You might say "¿Este plato tiene carne?" (Does this dish have meat?) or "¿Es picante?" (Is it spicy?). These questions help ensure you get exactly what you want.
Paying the Bill
To pay, you can say "La cuenta, por favor" to ask for the bill. In some countries, it’s common to leave a tip by saying "¿Está incluido el servicio?" (Is the service included?). Being polite and patient when handling money is appreciated.
Restaurant Etiquette
Understanding restaurant etiquette is also important. For example, in many places, it’s normal to greet the host with "Buenas tardes" and wait to be seated. Saying "gracias" and "por favor" shows respect and good manners.
Useful Vocabulary
| Spanish Word | English Meaning |
|---|---|
| La carta | The menu |
| El camarero | The waiter |
| La comida | The food |
| La bebida | The drink |
| El postre | The dessert |
| Reservar | To reserve |
| La propina | The tip |
