Italian Dining Essentials
Practical Italian phrases for dining out — from ordering and asking about specials to handling payments and dietary needs. Ideal for travelers and beginner learners who want quick, usable restaurant language.
I'd like to book a table for four, please.
Use when making a reservation for four people.
Posso avere il menù in inglese?
Could I have the menu in English?
Use to ask if an English-language menu is available.
Una bottiglia d'acqua naturale, per favore.
A bottle of still water, please.
Use to order bottled still (non-sparkling) water.
Avete opzioni senza glutine?
Do you have gluten-free options?
Use to ask whether the restaurant offers gluten-free dishes.
Posso pagare con la carta?
Can I pay by card?
Use when asking whether the restaurant accepts card payments.
Cosa mi consiglia?
What do you recommend?
Use to ask the server for a recommendation or the house specialty.
È piccante?
Is it spicy?
Ask to check how spicy a dish is before ordering.
Scusi, dov'è il bagno?
Excuse me, where is the restroom?
Use to politely ask for the restroom location.
Avete piatti vegetariani?
Do you have vegetarian dishes?
Use to ask whether the restaurant offers vegetarian options.
Il servizio è incluso?
Is service included?
Ask this when checking whether a service charge or tip is already added to the bill.
Qual è il piatto del giorno?
What's the dish of the day? / What's today's special?
Ask to learn about the restaurant's specials.
Sono allergico/a a...
I'm allergic to...
Use this to inform staff about food allergies; add the specific ingredient after the phrase.
Possiamo avere il conto separato, per favore?
Could we have separate checks, please?
Use when you want the bill split between people.
A table for two, please.
Use to request a table for two people when arriving at a restaurant.
The bill, please.
Use to ask for the check when you're ready to pay.