Essential French Phrases for Customer Service: At the Restaurant

Basic Restaurant Phrases

French restaurants expect certain formalities. Here are the essential phrases you'll need from entrance to exit.

When Arriving

1. "Une table pour deux, s'il vous plaît" (A table for two, please)

• Formal request used when first entering

2. "Est-ce que vous avez une réservation?" (Do you have a reservation?)

• Common question you'll hear from hosts

Ordering Drinks

1. "Je voudrais un verre de vin rouge" (I would like a glass of red wine)

• Polite way to order using conditional tense

2. "L'eau plate ou gazeuse?" (Still or sparkling water?)

• Typical server question about water preference

Menu Questions

1. "Qu'est-ce que vous recommandez?" (What do you recommend?)

• Asking for server's suggestions

2. "C'est quoi le plat du jour?" (What is today's special?)

• Inquiring about daily specials

Making Specific Requests

1. "Sans oignon, s'il vous plaît" (Without onion, please)

• How to modify your order

2. "La viande bien cuite, s'il vous plaît" (The meat well done, please)

• Specifying cooking preferences

Asking for Service

1. "S'il vous plaît?" (Please?/Excuse me?)

• Polite way to get server's attention

2. "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" (The bill, please)

• How to ask for your check

Cultural Tips

• Always use "s'il vous plaît" and "merci"
• Speak in a moderate tone
• Wait for server to approach your table
• Tipping is less expected than in US

Common Server Responses

1. "Je vous en prie" (You're welcome)
2. "Tout de suite" (Right away)
3. "Bon appétit" (Enjoy your meal)

French service may seem more formal than you're used to. This is normal and expected in French culture.