5 Must-Know Phrases to Survive in a Restaurant Abroad
Dec 26, 2025
Imagine this: you have just landed in a new country. You are strolling through cobblestone streets, neon-lit alleys, or beachside boulevards, and the smell of delicious food pulls you into a bustling local restaurant. Excitement fills your stomach but so does a bit of panic. The menu looks like a puzzle, the waiter speaks quickly, and suddenly you feel like a tourist caught in the headlights.That is where these 5 essential phrases come to the rescue. They are simple, powerful, and guaranteed to help you not just survive but actually enjoy dining out anywhere in the world!
“A table for two, please!”
The first hurdle when eating abroad is often just getting a seat. In some cultures, you cannot simply sit anywhere and must wait to be seated. Asking politely for a table sets the right tone and makes a good first impression.
Spain: You will likely be asked if you prefer “inside or terrace,” so knowing how to start the conversation matters.
Japan: A respectful request shows cultural awareness and avoids confusion at the door.
France: Politeness goes a long way with waiters who appreciate proper etiquette.
Germany: In busy beer halls, you might be asked if you are open to sharing your table with others.
Brazil: Many restaurants add a small “cover charge” for bread and starters. Asking for a table politely helps you start off on the right foot.
“Could I see the menu?”
Menus are the gateway to culinary adventure. But what if the waiter forgets to bring one? Or what if it is all in a language you do not understand? Without the menu, you are flying blind!
Italy: Menus often list regional specialties, so asking for it ensures you do not miss hidden treasures like “cacio e pepe” or “pasta alla norma.”
Thailand: Street vendors may not have printed menus, so this phrase can help you learn what dishes are available that day.
Japan: Menus may only be in kanji, and without asking, you could feel lost and order something surprising.
Morocco: Small family-run restaurants often only serve a few daily dishes. Asking for a menu gets you the rundown of what’s cooking.
Argentina: Knowing how to ask for the menu lets you discover the variety of steaks and cuts they proudly serve.
3. “I’ll have this one, please.”
Ordering food abroad can be intimidating. You might be tempted to just point at a random dish and hope for the best. With this phrase, you can confidently order like a local even when menus do not have pictures.
France: Ordering confidently often leads to better service, and sometimes even a complimentary treat.
Japan: Pointing politely at a dish on the menu while saying this phrase is the standard way of ordering without mistakes.
Mexico: Ensures you get the exact taco or enchilada you want rather than a completely different dish.
China: Menus can be huge, with dozens of regional options. This phrase helps you clearly indicate your choice.
Turkey: Street vendors often serve multiple types of kebabs. Pointing and using this phrase ensures you get the one you actually want.
4. “I can’t eat [ingredient]!”
This is perhaps the most important survival phrase of all. Food allergies, intolerances, and dietary restrictions can turn a dream dinner into a nightmare if not communicated clearly.
Thailand: Peanut allergies are serious, and this phrase can prevent dangerous misunderstandings.
India: Vegetarians need to make sure dishes do not include hidden meat stock or ghee.
Italy: Gluten intolerance requires clarity to avoid pasta or pizza mishaps.
Middle East: For those avoiding pork or alcohol, this phrase prevents unwanted surprises in meals.
France: If you dislike or cannot eat cheese, this phrase will save you countless awkward moments.
5. “Can I have the check, please?”
The meal is over, your stomach is happy, and you are ready to explore more. In many countries, the waiter will never bring the bill unless you ask for it. You could be sitting there for hours wondering why nothing is happening.
Spain: Waiters will let you relax as long as you want, but you must ask for the bill when you are ready.
Japan: The check is often placed discreetly on the table, but you need to know how to request it to settle up.
United States: The check usually comes automatically, but abroad it is rarely the case.
Greece: Meals are slow and social. If you do not ask for the check, you might spend hours waiting.
Portugal: Asking politely ensures a smooth end to your dining experience and avoids confusion.
So there you have it. Five simple phrases that can save your stomach, your sanity, and maybe even your social life when dining abroad. Food is meant to be enjoyed, not feared. With these phrases in your pocket and Translate Now in your hand, the only real question left is whether to order dessert. And let’s be honest, the answer is always yes.