☕ French phrase guide
How to order coffee in French
Ordering a coffee is one of the first real conversations you'll have abroad. It's short and predictable, and a great place to build confidence. Here are the phrases you'll actually hear and say at the counter.
Practice this conversation out loud, free →Key French phrases
| French | English | Listen |
|---|---|---|
| Bonjour | Hello / Good morning | |
| Je voudrais un café, s'il vous plaît. | I'd like a coffee, please. | |
| Un café crème, s'il vous plaît. | A milky coffee (latte), please. | |
| petit / moyen / grand | Small / medium / large | |
| Sur place ou à emporter ? | For here or to go? | |
| À emporter, s'il vous plaît. | To go, please. | |
| Avec du lait d'avoine, s'il vous plaît. | With oat milk, please. | |
| C'est combien ? | How much is it? | |
| Je peux payer par carte ? | Can I pay by card? | |
| Merci, bonne journée ! | Thanks, have a nice day! |
Example conversation
Barista
Bonjour ! Qu'est-ce que je vous sers ?
Hi! What can I get you?
You
Je voudrais un café crème, s'il vous plaît.
I'd like a latte, please.
Barista
Petit ou grand ?
Small or large?
You
Grand, à emporter.
Large, to go.
Barista
Ça fait quatre euros cinquante.
That's four euros fifty.
You
Voilà. Merci !
Here you go. Thanks!
Good to know
💡 In France, "un café" means a small espresso, so ask for "un café crème" if you want milk. Always say "Bonjour" before you order. Skipping it comes across as rude.
Reading phrases isn't the same as saying them.
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Practice "Order a coffee" in French →More French situations
🍽️ How to order at a restaurant🧭 How to ask for directions🏨 How to check into a hotel🙋 How to introduce yourself🩺 How to make a doctor's appointment