Dining out is one of the greatest highlights of traveling to Spanish-speaking countries. Whether you are enjoying tapas in Seville or street tacos in Mexico City, knowing how to communicate politely and confidently at a restaurant will elevate your experience.
Here is your ultimate guide to restaurant phrases in Spanish.
1. Arriving & Requesting a Table
When walking into a restaurant, greet the host with a friendly “¡Buenas tardes!” (Good afternoon) or “¡Buenas noches!” (Good evening).
- “Una mesa para dos, por favor.” (A table for two, please.)
- “¿Tienen una mesa libre?” (Do you have a free table?)
- “Tenemos una reserva a nombre de…” (We have a reservation under the name of…)
- “¿Podemos sentarnos afuera / en la terraza?” (Can we sit outside / on the terrace?)
2. Reading the Menu & Ordering
When you’re ready to order, you can catch the waiter’s attention politely by saying “¡Disculpe!” or “¿Perdón?”.
- “¿Me trae el menú / la carta, por favor?” (Could you bring me the menu, please?)
- “¿Qué me recomienda?” (What do you recommend?)
- “Para mí, el pollo asado.” (For me, the roasted chicken.)
- “Quisiera una copa de vino tinto.” (I would like a glass of red wine.)
- “Un vaso de agua sin gas / con gas, por favor.” (A glass of still / sparkling water, please.)
Tip: In Spanish, using “Quisiera…” (I would like…) or “Para mí…” (For me…) sounds much more natural and polite than saying “Quiero…” (I want…).
3. Handling Dietary Restrictions & Special Requests
If you have allergies or specific dietary needs, these key phrases are essential:
- “Soy vegetariano/a.” (I am vegetarian.)
- “Soy vegano/a.” (I am vegan.)
- “Soy alérgico/a a los frutos secos / al marisco / al gluten.” (I am allergic to nuts / seafood / gluten.)
- “Sin picante, por favor.” (Not spicy, please.)
- “¿Este plato lleva carne?” (Does this dish contain meat?)
4. Asking for the Bill & Leaving a Tip
When you have finished your meal and are ready to leave:
- “¿Nos trae la cuenta, por favor?” (Could you bring us the bill, please?)
- “¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta de crédito?” (Can I pay by credit card?)
- “¿Aceptan efectivo?” (Do you accept cash?)
- “La comida estuvo deliciosa, muchas gracias.” (The food was delicious, thank you very much.)
Tipping Etiquette in Spanish-Speaking Countries
- Spain: Tipping is modest. Leaving 5-10% or small change for good service is common.
- Mexico & Latin America: A tip (la propina) of 10-15% is standard at sit-down restaurants.
Summary Cheat Sheet
| Phrase | English |
|---|---|
| La cuenta, por favor | The bill, please |
| ¡Salud! | Cheers! |
| ¡Buen provecho! | Bon appétit! / Enjoy your meal! |
| El camarero / La camarera | The waiter / waitress |
| La propina | The tip |