What is a booking?
an arrangement made with a restaurant in advance, to eat there at a particular time
Use the word "party" in the context of dining out
How large is your dinner party?
What is a set menu?
a list of dishes you can order together (ex: starter, main meal and a dessert)
When the waiter asks you if you would like to hear about "today's specials" what do they mean?
extra dishes cooked on the day, which are not on the main menu
Explain what cutlery is
knives, forks and spoons
What is the first course of a meal called?
A starter or appetizer
What is a side dish?
A small portion of food like bread, salad or vegetables that you eat with a main meal
Give a sample sentence of arriving at a restaurant with a reservation
"Hello. We've booked a table for __ people"
If the waiter brings you the incorrect meal is it ok to ask them to fix it? If so, what can you say?
"Excuse me - I didn't order this"
True or false: in the US it is customary to leave a tip of around 20% of the bill for good service and food
Yes! Tipping is commonplace here and in fact it is seen as very rude if you don't tip
True or False: In the US f you have dietary needs, it is seen as rude to change a dish for your needs
False. It is common to change dishes as needed for dietary or personal preferences
In the US It is common for the waiter to bring you your check without you asking
True! People in the US spend much less time eating out so it's seen as rude if the waiter doesn't bring the check immediately after you've finished eating
True or False: It is common to eat out in the US for more than an hour
False! If you stay at a table for too long without ordering something when you are done it is seen as rude
True or False: It is common to get free water when dining out in the US
True! Unlimited free cold tap water with ice
Is it ok to ask for a take away box if you cannot finish your food in the US?
Yes. Portion sizes are much bigger in the US and it is common to bring food home
What does it mean "to flag down" the waiter?
To get their attention
