When you need this

At an American restaurant, the drinks come first. The server arrives, says hello, and asks what you'd like to drink before you've even opened the menu. It's normal to answer "Could we have a minute?" or to start with water and decide on the rest later. Ordering for a table has a few extra phrases, because a group often shares a pitcher or a bottle, and somebody has to handle the check.

A few details surprise visitors. Tap water is free and usually comes with ice. Sodas and iced tea often come with free refills, so the server may top up your glass without asking. If you order alcohol, the server may ask for ID, and they'll ask each person at the table, not only the one ordering. And when it's time to pay, you can ask to split the check; servers hear that request every night.

Phrases

the server's first question

you need more time to decide

ordering water for everyone

a big jug to share

ordering one serving for yourself

asking about drinks without alcohol

asking the server's opinion

asking if a second glass costs extra

asking for more of the same drink

each person pays for their own order

one bill for each person or couple

Say it out loud

Tap a sentence to hear it. Say it after the voice.

Practice · 3 min

Say it at the table. Situation on the left, one natural line on the right.

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Say it today

Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.