First Experience Ordering in a Spanish Restaurant
Many people who have just moved to Spain feel a bit lost when ordering in restaurants. The vocabulary on the menu, local habits, and serving order may differ from what you’re used to. Here I share some personal experiences in the hope they help those dining in a Spanish restaurant for the first time.
Common Menu Vocabulary
When dining in Spain, knowing some basic menu terms can make ordering much easier:
| Spanish | English meaning |
|---|
| Entrante | Starter |
| Plato principal | Main course |
| Postre | Dessert |
| Bebida | Drink |
| Tapas | Snacks |
These words can be found on almost every restaurant menu; especially the [tapas] culture of snacks is very interesting, often shared among several people, offering variety and avoiding monotony.
Ordering Process and Etiquette
Generally, the waiter will first ask if you would like a drink; if you are still looking at the menu, you can politely say: “Un momento, por favor”. After confirming the drink, they will wait for you to choose your starter and main course. In group dining, it’s common for everyone to order their own main course and add one or two starters to share.
Spanish people tend to eat at a relaxed pace; you can enjoy the conversation and the food without feeling the need to rush the service.
Special Notes
In some traditional restaurants, lunchtime generally starts from 13:30 and ends around 15:00, while dinner is served from 20:30 onwards. If you arrive too early, you might check Ordering in a Spanish Restaurant and find the kitchen not yet prepared.
Spanish restaurants often feature “Menu del día”, the daily set menu, which is affordable and includes a starter, main course, dessert, and a drink. For newcomers, this is a great way to try multiple dishes.
My Personal Advice
For your first time, consider choosing a well-reviewed family restaurant. Keep an open mind to adapt to the local rhythm and ask the waiter about the characteristics of the dishes. Don’t hesitate to interact; many waiters appreciate it when you make an effort to speak Spanish and will warmly explain the menu to you.
Remember to end with a simple “Gracias”; it’s not only polite but also a way to show appreciation for their service.
I hope these tips help you feel more confident and enjoy ordering in Spanish restaurants. Feel free to reply to this post with your own interesting ordering experiences.
