Couple holding open menus ordering at a restaurant ()
We have been living in Germany for over seven months now and while I have learned that, thankfully, many locals speak much better English than I do German, it is nice to speak to the locals in their native language. Most newcomers pick up “Hallo,” “Danke” and “Tschüß” fairly quickly after arriving. However, with all of the gendered nouns and other grammar rules, it is pretty daunting to try to attempt much more.
One of my favorite ways to learn the culture and language in Germany is through food. My spouse and I try to get out at least once a week to a new restaurant, cafe or biergarten. Here are some helpful phrases to help your order your next pint of beer and schnitzel.
German (Deutsch)
English
Ich möchte
I would like
Ich hätte gerne
I would like to have
Ein/Eine
A/An
Klein
Small
Ohne/Keine (Zwiebel)
Without/No (onion)
Mit (Zweibel)
With (onion)
Groß
Large/big
Essen
To eat
Trinken
To drink
Kaffee
Coffee
Wasser
Water
Bier
Beer
Zum Mitnehmen
To take away (for take-out/to-go)
Zum hier Essen
To eat here
Die Rechnung
The bill/the check
Frühstück
Breakfast
Mittagessen
Lunch
Abendessen
Dinner
Things to know before you go: Water is not complimentary, and you will have to clarify if you want your water “still” or “sprudel” (sparkling or “mit gas”). Also, keep in mind that food service works a little differently in Germany and you will have to ask for the bill; most places will not just bring it to the table. With that in mind, next time you visit your favorite German biergarten, try my spouse’s favorite phrase, “Ich möchte ein großes Bier.”
