What Not to Say in a Restaurant When You’re Not a Native English Speaker (but You’re Trying to Sound Clever)

Eating out in an English-speaking country is exciting. New food, new people, and a perfect place to practice your English. But sometimes, in the quest to sound fluent, you say things that don’t land quite the way you expect.

Here’s a light-hearted guide to a few phrases what not to say, and what to say instead.

• Give me - You might think you’re simply asking for food, but give me sounds bossy or impatient. Why avoid it? It comes off like a command. Better alternative: I’ll have… or May I get…? Same food, fewer death stares.

• I want your recommendation - You might mean I’d like a suggestion, but this phrase sounds like you want the server personally, not their opinion. Better alternative: What do you recommend? or Do you have a favorite dish? Much safer.

• Is this edible? - You probably mean Is this good? or Is this safe for me to eat considering allergies? But asking if something is edible suggests you think the restaurant might serve poison. Better alternatives: Is this dish popular? Is this spicy / sweet / vegetarian / dairy-free? Does this taste strong or mild?

• Make it very, very, very… something - When English learners want to intensify, they sometimes go wild with repetition like make it very, very, very spicy or Very, very, very, very crispy. It’s understandable, but it can sound funny or confusing. Better alternatives: Please make it extra spicy? or Super crispy, please. Short, clear, and natural.

• I need water now - You probably mean you’re just thirsty, nothing dramatic.But in English, this sounds like you’re dying. Better alternative: Please bring me some water when you have a moment. Servers appreciate calm vibes.

• Surprise me - This sounds clever and adventurous, until you realize you might get the most expensive item on the menu, the spiciest sauce, or something you absolutely hate. Better alternatives: I like X and Y or what do you recommend? or I’m open to suggestions. Maybe something mild / sweet / not too heavy? Still adventurous, but with boundaries.

• I don’t care - You might mean I’m easy going, you decide! but the waiter hears: Your job doesn’t matter and neither does my food. Better alternatives: I’m okay with anything! or I’m not picky, what do you suggest? Friendly and flexible.

• I want the food fast - You probably mean you’re hungry.In English, this sounds rude, as if you’re accusing the restaurant of slowness. Better alternatives: Do you know how long this usually takes? or I’m a bit short on time, is this be quick to prepare? Helpful, not hostile.

• Is this real meat? - If you’re trying to confirm whether something is beef or chicken, this phrasing insults the restaurant. Better alternative: Is this beef/chicken/pork? or What kind of meat is in this dish? Clear and respectful.

• You didn’t bring what I ordered - Even if it’s true, starting with blame escalates the situation quickly. Better alternative: I’m sorry, I think this might not be my order. or I might have ordered something different, please check? Politeness goes a long way.

Here's a funny real-life restaurant English mistake, known as The Dangerous Water Incident.

A friend once tried to ask if the tap water was safe to drink. What he meant was is the tap water okay? What he said was Is your water dangerous? The waiter blinked twice and replied, Not unless you insult it.

Final Tip: You Don’t Have to Sound Clever—Just Clear

Most English speaking servers are patient, and many love when someone practices English with them. You don’t need clever phrases or fancy vocabulary. Simple English is often the most natural and polite English.

A smile, a please, and a thank you, is instant fluency everywhere.

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