Eating Out In A Business Context

Business meals are an important part of professional life. Whether you are meeting a client, discussing a project with a colleague, or networking. Knowing how to communicate effectively in a restaurant setting is essential. In this First Business English article we cover useful phrases, vocabulary, and an example conversation to help you navigate a business meal with confidence. To learn more simply book a lesson with us at First Business English.

Common Business Restaurant Situations

1. Making a Reservation

• “I’d like to book a table for four at 7 PM.”

• “Do you have a private dining area?”

• “Could we have a table by the window, please?”

2. Arriving at the Restaurant

• “We have a reservation under the name of Smith.”

• “Could we have a few more minutes to look at the menu?”

• “Would you recommend any specials today?”

3. Ordering Food and Drinks

• “I’ll have the grilled salmon with a side of vegetables.”

• “Could I get a bottle of sparkling water, please?”

• “What do you recommend for a light lunch?”

4. During the Meal

• “This dish is excellent. How is your meal?”

• “Could we have some more bread, please?”

• “Excuse me, could you bring the check when you have a moment?”

5. Paying the Bill

• “Could we have the check, please?”

• “I’ll take care of the bill. It’s on me.”

• “Shall we split the bill?”

Example Conversation

Host: Good afternoon. Welcome to La Piazza. Do you have a reservation?

Business Guest: Yes, we have a reservation under the name of Johnson for three people.

Host: Right this way, please. Here is your table.

Server: Good afternoon. Can I get you something to drink?

Business Guest: I’ll have a sparkling water, please.

Colleague: I’ll have a coffee.

Server: Great choice. Are you ready to order?

Business Guest: Yes, I’ll have the grilled salmon with a side of vegetables.

Colleague: I’d like the chicken pasta, please.

Server: Excellent choices. Your meals will be ready shortly. 

(Later during the meal)

Business Guest: This salmon is fantastic. How is your pasta?

Colleague: It’s delicious. The sauce is excellent.

Business Guest: Excuse me, could we have the check, please?

Server: Of course. Here you go.

Business Guest: I’ll take care of the bill today.

Colleague: Thank you! Next time, it’s on me.

Key Business Vocabulary

• Reservation – A booking for a table at a restaurant.

• Specials – Dishes that are available for a limited time.

• Check (US) / Bill (UK) – The receipt for the meal.

• Side dish – Extra food served with the main meal.

• Split the bill – To share the cost of the meal.

• On me – To pay for someone else.

By learning these phrases and vocabulary, you can confidently handle business meals in any restaurant setting. Business meals at a restaurant is a great opportunity to build relationships and strengthen professional connections. To learn more and practice your business English simply book a lesson with us at First Business English.

Good Luck. Keep learning with First Business English. Best Business English Online.

About First Business English

First Business English is a premium business English language online education center that provides individuals and groups the opportunity to learn Business English that enhances their careers and lives through a structured Business English curriculum. Contact Us