Planning a trip to a Spanish-speaking country or simply want to impress your friends at your local tapas bar? Mastering essential restaurant vocabulary is key to a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. Let’s explore some must-know words and phrases to help you navigate the Spanish-speaking culinary scene like a local.
1. Before You Arrive
Reservar una mesa (to book a table)
Before heading to the restaurant, especially if it’s popular, you might want to make a reservation.
- “Me gustaría reservar una mesa para dos personas esta noche.” (I would like to book a table for two people tonight.)
- “¿Tienen una mesa disponible para cuatro personas mañana a las 8?” (Do you have a table available for four people tomorrow at 8?)
Other helpful words:
- La reserva (the reservation)
- Hacer una reservación (to make a reservation)
- Cancelar una reserva (to cancel a reservation)
2. Arriving at the Restaurant
Upon arrival, you’ll likely interact with the host or hostess:
- El anfitrión / La anfitriona (host / hostess)
- “Tengo una reserva a nombre de García.” (I have a reservation under the name García.)
- “¿Hay una mesa disponible para dos?” (Is there a table available for two?)
3. At the Table
El camarero / La camarera (waiter / waitress)
The waiter or waitress will assist you throughout your meal.
- “Disculpe, camarero/camarera.” (Excuse me, waiter/waitress.)
- El servicio (service)
- Pedir (to order)
Examples:
- “¿Podría traernos la carta, por favor?” (Could you bring us the menu, please?)
- “Estamos listos para ordenar.” (We’re ready to order.)
La carta (menu)
The menu showcases the culinary delights on offer.
- El menú del día (daily menu / set menu)
- La entrada (appetizer)
- El plato principal (main course)
- El postre (dessert)
- La bebida (drink)
Examples:
- “¿Cuál es la especialidad de la casa?” (What is the house specialty?)
- “¿Me puede recomendar un vino para acompañar este plato?” (Can you recommend a wine to pair with this dish?)
La especialidad de la casa (house specialty)
Be sure to inquire about the restaurant’s signature dishes.
- “¿Cuál es el plato más popular?” (What’s the most popular dish?)
- “Me gustaría probar la especialidad del chef.” (I’d like to try the chef’s specialty.)
4. During the Meal
You might need to request additional items:
- Los cubiertos (cutlery)
- El tenedor (fork)
- El cuchillo (knife)
- La cuchara (spoon)
- La servilleta (napkin)
- El vaso (glass)
- La sal (salt)
- La pimienta (pepper)
Examples:
- “¿Me puede traer otro tenedor, por favor?” (Can you bring me another fork, please?)
- “Necesitamos más servilletas.” (We need more napkins.)
5. After the Meal
La cuenta (bill)
When you’re ready to settle up:
- “La cuenta, por favor.” (The bill, please.)
- “¿Podemos pagar ahora?” (Can we pay now?)
La propina (tip)
Tipping customs vary, but it’s generally appreciated for good service.
- Dejar propina (to leave a tip)
- “¿Está incluido el servicio?” (Is the service included?)
Examples:
- “¿Se puede pagar con tarjeta?” (Can I pay by card?)
- “Quédese con el cambio.” (Keep the change.)
Bonus Phrases to Enhance Your Experience
- “Estaba delicioso.” (It was delicious.)
- “Mis felicitaciones al chef.” (My compliments to the chef.)
- “¿Puedo llevarme lo que sobró?” (Can I take the leftovers?)
- “¿Tiene opciones vegetarianas/veganas?” (Do you have vegetarian/vegan options?)
- “Soy alérgico/a a…” (I’m allergic to…)
By mastering these key terms and phrases, you’ll be well-prepared to savor a fantastic dining experience in any Spanish-speaking restaurant. ¡Buen provecho! (Enjoy your meal!)