🍽️ German phrase guide
How to order at a restaurant in German
From getting a table to asking for the check, these are the phrases that carry a whole restaurant visit. Learn them once and you can eat out anywhere the language is spoken.
Practice this conversation out loud, free →Key German phrases
| German | English | Listen |
|---|---|---|
| Einen Tisch für zwei, bitte. | A table for two, please. | |
| Ich habe eine Reservierung auf den Namen… | I have a reservation under the name… | |
| Können wir bitte die Speisekarte haben? | Could we have the menu, please? | |
| Was können Sie empfehlen? | What do you recommend? | |
| Ich nehme den / die / das… | I'll have the… | |
| Ist das scharf? | Is it spicy? | |
| Ich bin allergisch gegen Nüsse. | I'm allergic to nuts. | |
| Ein Glas Wasser, bitte. | A glass of water, please. | |
| Die Rechnung, bitte. | The check, please. | |
| Es war sehr lecker! | It was delicious! |
Example conversation
Server
Guten Abend! Haben Sie reserviert?
Good evening! Do you have a reservation?
You
Nein. Einen Tisch für zwei, bitte.
No. A table for two, please.
Server
Natürlich, folgen Sie mir. Hier ist die Speisekarte.
Of course, follow me. Here's the menu.
You
Was können Sie empfehlen?
What do you recommend?
Server
Der Fisch des Tages ist ausgezeichnet.
The fish of the day is excellent.
You
Dann nehme ich den Fisch, bitte.
Then I'll have the fish, please.
Good to know
💡 When paying in Germany, you often say the total including your tip: if the bill is 27 euros, say "30, bitte". To split the bill, say "Getrennt, bitte" (separately, please).
Reading phrases isn't the same as saying them.
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Practice "Order dinner" in German →More German situations
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