Ordering food is something we do every day, but when you’re in an English-speaking country or restaurant, knowing the right phrases can make the experience smoother, more enjoyable, and even help you feel more confident. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, dining at a fancy restaurant, or ordering takeout, this guide will teach you key English phrases so you can order food like a pro!
1. Starting the Conversation Politely
The first step to ordering food is greeting the waiter, cashier, or server politely. In English-speaking cultures, using friendly and respectful language is very important.
Here are some common phrases to begin:
- “Hi, how are you?”
- “Good afternoon, can I see the menu, please?”
- “Hello! I’d like to order some food, please.”
- “Could I get a table for two, please?” (If you’re at a restaurant.)
If you’re at a café or fast-food place, you might say:
- “Hi, can I get a [coffee/burger/sandwich], please?”
- “I’d like a [latte/toast/salad], please.”
These polite openings make a good impression and start the interaction positively.
2. Asking to See the Menu
Once you’re seated at a restaurant or standing at the counter, you may want to look at the menu first. Use these phrases:
- “Can I see the menu, please?”
- “Do you have a menu?”
- “What’s on the menu today?”
- “Can you recommend something popular?”
If the restaurant has a special menu for the day or a “specials board,” you can ask:
- “What are today’s specials?”
- “Do you have any lunch specials?”
3. Asking Questions About the Food
If you want to know more about a dish, don’t be afraid to ask. Most staff will be happy to help.
Useful phrases include:
- “What’s in this dish?”
- “Is it spicy/sweet/salty?”
- “Does this have meat/dairy/nuts in it?”
- “Is it vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free?”
- “Can I see the ingredients?”
- “How is this cooked?” (grilled, fried, steamed, etc.)
Being curious about the food shows interest, and asking questions helps avoid problems like allergies or preferences.
4. Making Your Order
Now it’s time to place your order like a pro. Here are several ways to say it:
- “I’ll have the grilled chicken with rice.”
- “Can I get the cheeseburger combo, please?”
- “I’d like the pasta with extra cheese.”
- “Could I order the vegetarian curry?”
- “Can I have the soup of the day, please?”
If you want something more casual or at a fast-food counter, say:
- “One cheeseburger and a medium fries, please.”
- “A large pepperoni pizza for takeout, please.”
You can also add drinks:
- “And to drink, I’ll have a Coke.”
- “I’d like a coffee with milk and no sugar.”
5. Customizing Your Order
Sometimes, you want to make small changes to a dish. Maybe you want no onions, extra sauce, or a side instead of fries. Here are useful phrases:
- “Can I have it without onions?”
- “Could you leave out the cheese?”
- “Can I get extra ketchup on the side?”
- “Is it possible to substitute salad for fries?”
- “I’d like it well-done/medium/rare.” (for steak)
- “Can I get that to go?” (takeaway)
Being polite when asking for changes is important. Add “please” and use “Can I…” or “Could I…” to sound more professional and kind.
6. Understanding the Server’s Questions
When you order, the server may ask you follow-up questions. Be prepared to hear things like:
- “For here or to go?” (Eat-in or takeaway?)
- “Would you like a drink with that?”
- “Do you want fries or a salad with your sandwich?”
- “What size would you like?” (Small, medium, large?)
- “Is everything okay with your meal?”
Here are some useful responses:
- “For here, thanks.”
- “I’ll take a small Coke.”
- “Fries, please.”
- “Yes, everything’s great, thank you!”
7. During the Meal
If you need something while eating, don’t hesitate to ask politely. Use these phrases:
- “Excuse me, could I get some more water?”
- “Can we have some napkins, please?”
- “Could I have some extra sauce?”
- “Excuse me, I think there’s a mistake with my order.”
Be respectful and calm. Most restaurants will be happy to fix mistakes or bring what you need.
8. Paying the Bill
When you’re ready to leave, you’ll need to ask for the bill. Depending on where you are (USA, UK, Australia, etc.), people use slightly different phrases:
- “Could I get the check, please?” (USA)
- “Can I have the bill, please?” (UK)
- “We’re ready to pay, thank you.”
- “Do you take card or cash?”
If you’re splitting the bill with someone else:
- “Can we split the bill?”
- “We’d like to pay separately, please.”
- “Half each, please.”
Tipping is also common in many English-speaking countries. You can ask:
- “Is service included?”
- “How much is the usual tip?”
9. Ordering Takeout or Delivery
If you’re not eating at the restaurant, here’s how to order food to go:
At a counter or café:
- “Can I get this to go, please?”
- “I’d like to take this away.”
- “Is this available for takeout?”
For delivery:
- “Do you deliver?”
- “I’d like to place an order for delivery.”
- “Can I order online or by phone?”
- “What’s the estimated delivery time?”
10. Useful Vocabulary
Here are some helpful English food and restaurant terms:
Main courses: steak, chicken, fish, pasta, pizza, curry
Sides: fries, salad, soup, bread
Drinks: water, soda, juice, wine, coffee
Desserts: cake, ice cream, pudding, pie
Cooking styles: grilled, fried, baked, steamed, roasted
Preferences: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free
Sizes: small, medium, large, regular
11. Phrases to Sound Even More Natural
Want to sound like a native English speaker? Try adding these expressions:
- “I’m starving!” (very hungry)
- “Everything looks so good!”
- “What do you recommend?”
- “I’ll go with the special.”
- “That sounds delicious.”
- “Let’s order a few things to share.”
These casual phrases show excitement and help you connect better with staff and friends.
Conclusion
Ordering food in English doesn’t have to be scary. With the right phrases and a friendly attitude, you can order with confidence anywhere—whether you’re dining in New York, London, or Sydney. Remember to be polite, listen carefully, and enjoy the experience. You’ve now learned how to greet the staff, ask about the menu, place and customize your order, and pay like a pro.
So next time you’re hungry, don’t be shy. Walk in, smile, and say, “I’ll have the burger with fries, please!” Bon appétit!
