Eating and drinking in France is one of the great pleasures of travel — but it has its own rhythm. French cafés and restaurants move at a relaxed pace, and knowing a few phrases helps you feel at ease rather than flustered. Staff appreciate a genuine attempt at French, even if you switch to English after the first sentence. These phrases cover everything from getting a table to asking the bill.

Getting a Table

Ask this at the entrance when you arrive without a reservation

Tell the host how many people are in your group

A table for two, please
Une table pour deux, s’il vous plaît
oon tah-bl poor duh, seel voo pleh

The host may ask you this — inside or on the terrace?

If you want to sit on the terrace, this is your answer

Ordering Food and Drink

Ask for the menu as soon as you're seated — in France, 'la carte' is the full menu

A good opener if you're unsure what to order — locals appreciate the question

Use this phrase followed by what you want — works for food and drinks

If you don't know the name of something, point to the menu and say this

Ordering a coffee — note that 'un café' in France means a short espresso

Ordering wine — one of the most useful phrases you'll use in France

The waiter may ask you this when you order water — still or sparkling?

If you just want tap water, use this — it's free in France and perfectly normal to ask for

Paying

In France, the bill is never brought automatically — you always need to ask

Ask this before handing over your card — most places accept cards, but not all

A warm way to end the meal — French people appreciate a compliment about the food

The main course — sometimes listed as 'plat principal'

A set menu with two or three courses at a fixed price — often the best value at lunch