Relax at restaurants

DINING out with friends is a great way to socialize. So, study these sentences and they'll help you relax the next time you're in a restaurant.

1. May I have the menu, please? 请给我看下菜单。

Obviously, looking at the menu is the first step at a restaurant. Often, the waiter has already brought it. If not, this is the polite way to get one. Other common ways to ask are:

I'd like to see the menu, please.

Could you get me a menu please?

2. We'd like to order now, please. / I believe we're ready to order. 我想点菜。

Next, you have to order. Sometimes, the waiter will ask,"Can I take your order now?"(现在可以点菜了吗？). If you're ready, simply answer "Yes, please." If you are not ready, say "Not quite. Could we have a few more minutes?"

3. What's the specialty of the house? 你们店有什么招牌菜？

Or, you may also ask:

Do you have any specials today? 今天有什么特价菜/特别的菜品吗？

What would you recommend? I want something light. 有什么推荐的吗？我想吃点清淡的。

4. May I/we have the bill/check, please. 请拿账单来。

Then, it's time to pay for your enjoyment. Another way to say this:

Could you bring me the check, please?

I'd like the check, please.