Useful Phrases for Ordering Food in English

Imagine this: you’re sitting in the middle of a busy Italian restaurant. The waiters are rushing back and forth, plates of pasta flying past you, the smell of pizza in the air. You’ve been waiting for your dish for about 20 minutes, but then you remember… wait, does it contain shrimp? (and you’re allergic 😨). You try to catch the waiter’s attention, but it feels almost impossible. What do you say? How do you ask?

Ordering food in English can definitely feel stressful — but don’t worry! With the right phrases, it becomes much easier. Here are some useful expressions and short conversations that will help you sound natural and confident the next time you’re in a restaurant.

🍴 1. Getting a Table

Useful Phrases:

• A table for two, please.

• Can we sit outside?

• Do you have a table by the window?

• We’d like a table near the back.

• Is there a wait?

Mini Conversation:

• You: A table for two, please.

• Waiter: Of course. This way, please.

• You: Fantastic! Do you have a table by the window?

• Waiter: I think we do, let me ask, please wait for a moment

📖 2. Looking at the Menu

Useful Phrases:

• Can I see the menu, please?

• Do you have an English menu?

• What do you recommend?

• What’s today’s special?

• Is there a vegetarian menu?

Mini Conversation:

• You: Can I see the menu, please?

• Waiter: Yes, here you go. Today’s special is grilled salmon.

• You: What do you recommend?

• Waiter: Many customers really like the curry.

🥗 3. Ordering Food & Drinks

Useful Phrases:

• I’ll have the pasta, please.

• Can I have the chicken curry?

• We’d like two iced coffees.

• Could I get a glass of water?

• I’ll take the steak, medium rare.

Mini Conversation:

• You: I’ll have the pasta, please.

• Waiter: Sure. Would you like soup or salad with that?

• You: Salad, please.

• Waiter: Great. And would you like something to drink?

• You: Yes, I’ll have an iced tea, please.

❓ 4. Asking About the Food

Useful Phrases:

• Does this dish have nuts in it?

• Is this vegetarian?

• Can I get this without cheese?

• What’s in the soup of the day?

• How spicy is this dish?

• Does this dish contain shrimp? Sorry, I'm allergic

Mini Conversation:

• You: Does this dish have nuts in it?

• Waiter: No, it doesn’t.

• You: Great, then I’ll order that.

• Waiter: Perfect. Would you like any sides with it?

• You: No, that’s fine. Thank you.

💳 5. Paying the Bill

Useful Phrases:

• Can we have the bill, please?

• Could we pay separately?

• Do you take credit cards?

• Is service included?

• Can I pay in cash?

Mini Conversation:

• You: Can we have the bill, please?

• Waiter: Of course, I’ll bring it right over.

• (A few minutes later) Waiter: Here you go. The total is $25.50.

• You: Do you take credit cards?

• Waiter: Yes, we do.

• You: Great, I’ll pay by card.

That’s it! 🎉 With these phrases and conversations, you’ll be ready to order food in English with confidence. Next time you’re in a café or restaurant, try one or two of these — you’ll see how natural it feels!