How to order food?

Question

Hi,

I am new in UK and my communication skill is not that good. My questions are embarassing i understand.....so get prepared....

Can someone explain me how people commonly order food in the

Restaurant, Pizzeria, Takeaway, Subway, coffee shop, buffet? what are the common questions that we have to ask or to answer? Should the customer seat on a table or rather go directly to the checker? when does (s)he have to pay? does (s) he have to pay tips? and how much? can (s)he eat on the shop or no? how to precise that (s)he want to take food home. if someone is on diet can (s) he ask for special arrangement (like when ordering pizza)

If someone can answer my above questions in each of the above cited venue, i'll be really delighted, or at least give me alink on the web where i can learn. unfortunately, i don't find such info in any english tutoring book despite its importance.

thank you

Answer 1

firstly, you can always ask about specific diet arrangements anywhere you go...

for restaurants, pizzerias, Pizza Hut:

1) you get there and wait to be seated - when asked, say "Table for <no. of people>"

2) when done eating, call the checker and say "can i get the bill please"

3) tips - you pay 10% of the bill.. but this is NOT a must

4) if you have food left over, ask the checker "can i get the rest as take away"

for Takeaways:

1) you get straight to the counter and ask for the menu

2) pay either as soon as you order or when you're picking up the food

3) NO tips

4) if there are places to sit (usually not), then you're allowed to sit and eat there

for cafes, subway:

1) you get straight to the counter, ask for the menu and order

2) pay as soon as you order

3) no tips

4) if there are places to sit, then you're allowed to sit and eat there

5) if you want to take the food/drink away, they usually ask you themselves at the counter. if not, just say "to takeaway please"

Answer 2

Congrats on moving to the UK....wish I could afford to!  I do know that if you eat at most sit down restaurants that they automatically charge gratuity there (tips) so make sure before adding tips that it isn't already added....good luck!

Answer 3

DONT ASK SO MANY QUESTIONS. JUST ORDER.

Answer 4

first just choose whatever you want and order it at the table what u picked and the people there will do that for you. Susie

Answer 5

If it's fast food (takeaway) you go up to order and pay, you do not need to tip

Anytime it's a sit down meal (restaurant) they take your order and you tip.

Buffets, I would tip little because they don't take your orders or bring anything out to you besides your beverages.

A good tip is 15-20% of your bill.

Hope that helps!