Food and cafe life

Watch the video above for a glimpse of typical conversation at a French restaurant. Note the key phrases used by both the patrons and servers.


This page will help you understand the basics of how to interact with French restaurants, cafes, brassieres, and more.

The world of French food is vast and diverse, so not all common food items or vocabulary will be covered. For additional information on key consideration when dining in France, helpful words and phrases, and more, click here.

Navigating A Restaurant or Cafe

A table for two, please. Une table pour deux, s'il vous plait.

Where is the restroom? Où est la toilette?

Can I sit on the patio? Puis-je prendre une place à la terrasse?

May I see a menu? Une carte, s'il vous plait?

I have a reservation. J'ai une réservation .

Ordering Food

I would like.. Je voudrais...

Do you have any recommendations? Est-ce que vous avez des recommendations?

I am allergic to... Je suis allergique à...

I can't eat... Je ne peux pas manger...

What are your vegetarian options? Quels sont vos plats végétariens?


France's Famous Foods