Restaurant English Vocabulary: 100+ Words, Phrases & Dialogues

Key takeaways:

• Restaurant English covers more than food names; it includes vocabulary for places, objects, staff roles, and menu sections.
• Useful phrases like “I’d like…,” “Could we have the bill?” or “Do you have vegetarian options?” help you order smoothly and politely.
• Cultural etiquette (including tipping customs, allergy disclosures, and dress codes) varies by country and is key to respectful dining.
• Real-life dialogues show how to handle common situations, from asking for recommendations to making special requests.
• With regular practice, you’ll be able to dine out confidently, communicate with staff, and understand English words related to restaurants.

Whether you’re traveling abroad or enjoying a night out at home, knowing restaurant English terms can make your dining experience smoother and more enjoyable. From learning the names of items on the table to understanding restaurant language, this guide will help you order food, ask questions, and chat with staff with confidence.

Knowing how to name common things in a restaurant (like utensils, condiments, and menu items) and using the right words related to restaurant service is very useful. It helps in everyday conversations and is also important when you travel.

Common Restaurant Words

• Reservation: Booking a table at a specific date and time in advance at a restaurant.
• Menu: A list or board showing the food and drink options available at the restaurant.
• Waiter/Waitress: The restaurant staff member who takes orders and serves food and drinks.
• Tip: Extra money given to the server to thank them for their exceptional service (optional in some countries).
• Bill/Check: An itemized statement of the total amount owed for the food and beverages consumed.
• Cuisine: A style or type of cooking linked to a certain region or culture.
• Cutlery: Utensils such as knives, forks, and spoons used for eating and serving food.
• Tablecloth: A cloth covering for the table to keep it clean and presentable.
• Chef: The professional cook in charge of preparing and managing meals.
• Corkage: A fee charged by the restaurant for opening and serving wine brought from outside.
• Sommelier: A wine expert who recommends the best wines to match your meal.
• Takeout: Food ordered to eat away from the restaurant, often served in a to-go container.
• Tableware: The dishes, plates, bowls, glasses, and silverware used for serving and eating meals.
• Host/Hostess: The staff member who greets and seats guests upon arrival.
• Napkin: A piece of cloth or paper for wiping your hands and mouth while eating.
• Drink: Any liquid served to refresh or accompany a meal, such as water, soda, juice, wine, or coffee.
• Dish: A specific prepared food item served at a meal, like pasta, salad, or soup.
• Fork: A utensil with prongs used to pick up and eat solid foods.
• Spoon: A rounded utensil used for eating soup, dessert, or stirring drinks.
• Knife: A sharp utensil used for cutting or spreading food.
• Glass: A container made of glass used to serve drinks like water, wine, or juice.
• Plate: A flat dish used to hold your food during a meal.
• Table Setting: The way cutlery, plates, glasses, and napkins are arranged on a dining table.
• Centerpiece: A decorative item, like flowers or candles, placed in the center of the table.
• High Chair: A raised seat with straps for safely seating young children at the table.
• Booth: A type of seating in a restaurant with cushioned benches and a fixed table, usually more private.
• Refill: A second serving of a drink, often free in casual restaurants.
• Shakers: Small containers for salt, pepper, or other spices, often found on restaurant tables.
• Condiments: Flavorings like ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, or soy sauce that are usually offered at the table.
• Coaster: A small mat placed under a glass to protect the table surface.

Places to Eat Out

• Café: A casual place to enjoy light meals, drinks, and desserts in a relaxed setting.
• Diner: A casual restaurant, often with retro decor and a menu of classic comfort foods.
• Bistro: A small, cozy place that serves simple, hearty dishes.
• Bar: A place that mainly serves alcoholic drinks but often offers small meals or snacks like burgers, wings, or tapas.
• Pub: A British-style bar that also serves food, offering drinks and traditional “pub grub.”
• Food Court: A shared dining space in a shopping mall with many food stalls or fast-food outlets.
• Fine Dining Restaurant: An upscale venue with high-quality food, elegant atmosphere, and excellent service.
• Fast Food Restaurant: A quick-service eatery that offers affordable and ready-made meals, often self-service, such as McDonald’s, Burger King, and KFC.
• Cafeteria: A self-service dining area, often in schools, hospitals, or large buildings, where food is served along a line.
• Buffet: A self-service restaurant where customers can take as much food as they like from a selection of dishes.
• Food Truck: A mobile restaurant that operates out of a truck or van, serving different types of street food.
• Pizzeria: A restaurant that makes and serves pizza with a variety of toppings and styles.
• Steakhouse: A restaurant famous for grilled meats, especially different cuts of steak.
• Coffeehouse: A relaxed spot focused on serving coffee, tea, and light snacks.
• Bakery Café: A cozy shop selling fresh-baked goods like bread, pastries, and cakes, often with coffee or light meals.

5

Menu Sections & Meal Courses

• Breakfast Menu: Morning staples like eggs, pancakes, and toast.
• Brunch Specials: A mix of breakfast and lunch items served in the late morning.
• Appetizers: Small dishes to start the meal and stimulate the appetite.
• Soups: Warm, liquid-based starters enjoyed before heavier dishes.
• Salads: Light, fresh dishes made with vegetables, often served before or with main courses.
• Tacos & Wraps: Handheld starters or light meals with flavorful fillings.
• Entrées/Main Courses: The central dishes of a meal, usually with sides.
• Rice & Grain Bowls: Hearty bowls with rice, quinoa, couscous, or other grains.
• Sandwiches: Bread-based meals with fillings like meat, cheese, or vegetables.
• Build-Your-Own Options: Customizable dishes such as pizzas, salads, or burgers.
• Chef’s Recommendations: Signature or popular dishes suggested by the chef.
• Specials of the Day: Seasonal or limited-time menu items.
• Side Dishes: Smaller portions served alongside the main dish, like fries or vegetables.
• Condiments: Sauces and seasonings to add flavor (e.g., ketchup, mustard).
• Allergies: Notes or symbols showing ingredients that may cause allergic reactions.
• Kids’ Menu: Smaller, simpler meals especially made for children.
• Desserts: Sweet dishes served after the main meal, like cake or ice cream.
• Beverages: Non-alcoholic drinks such as water, juice, or coffee.
• Soft Drinks: Carbonated or still drinks, often available with refills.
• Alcoholic Beverages: Wines, beers, spirits, and cocktails for adults.
• Coffee & Espresso Bar: Specialty coffee drinks like cappuccinos and lattes.
• Tea Selection: A range of black, green, herbal, or flavored teas.
• Smoothies & Shakes: Blended drinks made with fruit, yogurt, or ice cream.
• Mocktails: Alcohol-free cocktails that are colorful and flavorful.
• Vegetarian Options: Dishes without meat, suitable for vegetarians.
• Vegan Options: Fully plant-based dishes with no animal products.
• Gluten-Free Items: Dishes made without wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.
• Low-Carb / Keto Options: Meals with a low carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-Free Choices: Dishes without milk, cheese, cream, or other dairy products.
• Nut-Free Dishes: Meals prepared without nuts, safe for people with nut allergies.

Useful Phrases for Dining Out

• "Could we have a table for [number of people], please?" - Asking for a table for a specific number of guests.
• "What do you recommend from the menu?" - Asking the server for their top dish suggestions.
• "I'd like to order the [dish or item] please." - Placing your order with the server.
• "Could I have some water, please?" - Requesting a glass of water.
• "Is this dish spicy?" - Checking the level of spiciness in a particular dish.
• "Could I get a refill on my drink?" - Asking for another serving of your drink.
• "Could we have separate checks, please?" - Asking for individual bills for each person in a group.
• "Could we have the bill/check, please?" - Asking for the bill or check to pay.
• "Do you accept credit cards?" - Inquiring about the restaurant's payment options.
• "Could I have a takeout box for the leftovers, please?" - Asking for a container to take remaining food home.
• "Is the service charge included in the bill?" - Checking if the tip has already been added.
• "Could we have some more napkins, please?" - Asking for extra napkins.
• "Could I have a fork and knife, please?" - Asking for utensils to eat with.
• "Is there a vegetarian/vegan option available?" - Asking if there are plant-based dishes.
• "Could we have the menu, please?" - Requesting the menu to see available options.

Real-Life Dialogues for Ordering Food

One of the most practical ways to learn food-related vocabulary is by seeing how it’s actually used in conversation. Below are 5 short and useful waiter–customer dialogues that reflect everyday restaurant scenarios:

1. Basic dine-in order

• Waiter: Welcome! What can I get you?
• Customer: I’ll have the grilled chicken with a side of mashed potatoes, please.
• Waiter: Would you like something to drink?
• Customer: Just water, thank you.

2. Asking for recommendations

• Waiter: Good day, sir. May I take your order?
• Customer: Sure. What do you recommend?
• Waiter: Our most popular dish is the seafood risotto.
• Customer: That sounds great! I’ll take that.

3. Clarifying ingredients (food allergy)

• Waiter: Good evening! Are you ready to order? 
• Customer: Yes, thank you. I have a question: Does the Caesar salad have any nuts?
• Waiter: No, but it does contain dairy and anchovies.
• Customer: That’s fine. I’ll take one, please.

4. Making a special request

• Waiter: Alright, so that’s one Caesar salad and a large burger, correct?
• Customer: Yes. Can I get the burger without onions, please?
• Waiter: Of course! Would you like fries or a salad on the side?
• Customer: Fries, please.

5. Ordering dessert and asking for the check

• Waiter: Would you like to see the dessert menu?
• Customer: Yes, please. (A few minutes later) I’ll take the chocolate lava cake, and can I get the check as well?
• Waiter: Absolutely. I’ll bring both right over.
• Customer: Thank you so much!

Restaurant Etiquette & Cultural Tips

Knowing restaurant etiquette can make your meal smoother and more respectful, no matter which restaurant you choose.

1. Dress codes

• Casual Dining: Most casual or family restaurants don’t require special attire. Clean, tidy clothing is enough.
• Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants may expect business casual or formal wear. Avoid shorts, flip-flops, or tank tops.

Cultural note: In some countries, like Japan and some parts of the Middle East, modest clothing is preferred even in casual places. It’s best to do your research and pack accordingly if you are planning to dine out abroad.

2. Tipping customs

• United States & Canada: Tipping is expected and makes up a large portion of workers’ income. The standard practice is to tip 15–20% (pre-tax) of the bill for good service.
• Europe: Tipping customs vary widely across Europe. In most of Western Europe (e.g., France, Germany, the UK, etc.), a service charge is often included. If not, a tip of 5-10% is a good rule of thumb, or you can simply round up the bill. However, in Nordic countries (e.g., Sweden, Norway, etc.), tipping is not expected, as service staff are paid a living wage.
• Asia: In many parts of Asia, especially Japan and South Korea, tipping isn’t customary and may even be seen as rude. In China, tipping is traditionally not done, but it’s becoming more accepted in tourist-heavy areas. However, tipping is customary in India, with a 5-10% tip expected in restaurants if a service charge isn't already included.
• Latin America: In countries like Mexico, Colombia, and Peru, tipping isn’t mandatory, but it is expected, usually around 10-15%. And, in countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Chile, a 10% service charge is often included. It’s always good to check your bill for “servicio incluido” (service included) before tipping.
• Middle East & Africa: Tipping is common and often an important part of workers’ income. A tip of 10–15% is a good standard for tipping at restaurants.
• Tipping in Oceania: Countries like Australia and New Zealand don’t have a strong tipping culture, as service workers receive a higher minimum wage, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for excellent service is appreciated.

When dining abroad, it’s best to check local tipping customs before your meal or ask politely if you’re unsure. While tipping is often a way to show appreciation for good service, traditions vary widely; what’s expected in one country may be unusual or even inappropriate in another.

A little cultural awareness can make your travel experiences more respectful, enjoyable, and rewarding.

3. Allergy disclosures

If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, always tell your server before ordering.

• Ask clear questions: For example, “Does this contain peanuts?” or “Is this gluten-free?”
• Check that your meal is free of harmful ingredients: Even in allergy-aware countries,  it’s best to double-check hidden ingredients like sauces or dressings to ensure that your meal is safe for you to eat.

4. Other helpful tips

• Learn basic local phrases: For example, learning how to say “please,” “thank you,” and “check, please” in the local language shows respect and helps you get better service.
• Ask for clarification kindly: Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something. (You can try “Could you please repeat that slowly?” or “Do you have an English menu?”)
• Learn local nonverbal cues: For example, in Japan, slurping noodles shows appreciation, while in some countries, putting your fork and knife together means you're done eating.
• Listen for tone and context clues: Even if you don’t catch every word, body language and facial expressions can guide you.
• Download a translation app: Or bring a small dictionary or phrasebook for backup if you're traveling somewhere unfamiliar.

How to Order in a Restaurant (Step-by-Step)

Ordering in a restaurant in English can feel intimidating at first, but with a clear structure and a few key phrases, you’ll see how quickly it becomes easy and enjoyable. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you feel confident every time you dine out:

1. Greet the staff: Start with a friendly greeting as you walk in. Use polite language to create a good first impression.

• Example: “Hello, good afternoon!” or “Good evening!”

2. Request a table: Let the host or server know how many people are in your group.

• Example: “A table for [number of people in your group], please.”

If you have a reservation, you can say:

• “We/I have a reservation under the name [Your Name].”

3. Ask for the menu: After you are seated, feel free to request the menu if it hasn’t already been provided.

• Example: “Could we see the menu, please?”

4. Order your food and drinks: Start by ordering drinks, then move on to appetizers, main courses, and sides. If you are done and still feeling a bit hungry, you can then ask for a dessert.

• Example: “I’d like still water and the chicken salad.”

 You can also ask for recommendations:

• “What do you recommend?”

 Or, if you’re not sure about an item, try:

• “What’s in the [dish name]?” or “Could you please tell me what’s in this dish?”

5. Mention any allergies or preferences: If you have food allergies or special dietary needs, let your server know immediately.

• Example: “I’m allergic to peanuts” or “Does this dish contain dairy?”

6. Request the bill: When you're ready to leave, you’ll need to ask for the check.

• Example: “Could we have the bill, please?”

7. Pay and thank the staff: Pay the bill and thank your server. If tipping is customary, leave a tip to show appreciation.

• Example: “Thank you very much. The meal was great!”

Conclusion

Mastering restaurant vocabulary in English and learning a few key phrases can make dining out (whether abroad or at home) much smoother and more enjoyable. From reading the menu like a pro to confidently ordering your favorite dishes, these expressions and words related to restaurants will help you feel at ease in any dining situation.

With the Promova app, you can practice restaurant English anytime, join a free conversation club to role-play dining scenarios, and work with experienced tutors to polish your pronunciation and fluency.

Enjoy dining out!