How to Order Food in Mandarin: Useful Phrases for Chinese Restaurants
Ordering food in Mandarin can be useful whether you are visiting China or eating at a Chinese restaurant closer to home. You do not need to memorize a long conversation. A few short phrases can help you order politely and confidently.
Not every Chinese restaurant uses Mandarin as its main language, but these expressions are widely understood by Mandarin speakers.
Answer the server’s question
The server may ask:
您想点什么？Nín xiǎng diǎn shénme? “What would you like to order?”
If you are pointing to a pictured menu, respond:
我想要这个，谢谢。Wǒ xiǎng yào zhège, xièxie. “I would like this one, thank you.”
Transcript: 您想点什么？Nín xiǎng diǎn shénme? “What would you like to order?”
我想要这个，谢谢。Wǒ xiǎng yào zhège, xièxie. “I would like this one, thank you.”
(Each line is spoken slowly, at first, and then at a more natural speed.)
Because the server has already invited you to order, simply point to the items and answer the question directly. Adding 谢谢 keeps the response friendly.
Ask whether something is spicy
这个辣吗？Zhège là ma? “Is this spicy?”
If you would prefer something mild, say:
请不要太辣。Qǐng bú yào tài là. “Please don’t make it too spicy.”
Transcript: 这个辣吗？Zhège là ma? “Is this spicy?”
请不要太辣。Qǐng bú yào tài là. “Please don’t make it too spicy.”
Because ideas of “not too spicy” can vary, you can hold your thumb and index finger close together to show that you want only a little heat.
Ask for the bill
When you are ready to pay, say:
买单，谢谢。Mǎidān, xièxie. “The check, please. Thank you.”
Transcript: 买单，谢谢。Mǎidān, xièxie. “The check, please. Thank you.”
Start with one phrase
You do not need to use every expression during one meal. Choose one phrase, practice it aloud, and try it when the opportunity feels comfortable.
A short phrase spoken clearly is more useful than a long sentence that is difficult to remember. Even a small effort can make an ordinary restaurant visit more interesting and personal.
Would you like to practice a complete restaurant conversation? Want to keep building your confidence? Explore Beginner Mandarin Foundations for additional phrases, audio, pronunciation guidance, and speaking practice.
Learn a little. Use it in real life. Enjoy the connection.