The French café is the beating heart of daily life — and it is where many travellers freeze up. The waiter approaches, your mind goes blank, and you point at the menu hoping for the best. It does not have to be that way. With a handful of phrases and a little cultural know-how, you can order with confidence and actually enjoy the moment.
Rule #1: Always start with Bonjour
This is non-negotiable. Walking up and launching into your order — even politely — can come across as rude. A warm "Bonjour madame / monsieur" before anything else instantly changes how you are treated. In the evening, switch to "Bonsoir."
Getting a table
For a café, you can usually seat yourself. In a restaurant, say "Bonjour, une table pour deux, s'il vous plaît" (a table for two, please). Just having a coffee at the bar? "Je peux m'asseoir ici ?" (may I sit here?) does the job.
Ordering drinks — and the un café surprise
Ask for "un café" and you will get a small espresso, not a mug of filter coffee. If you want something longer, order "un café allongé"; for milk, "un café au lait" or "un crème." To order politely, use "Je voudrais…" (I would like) or "Je vais prendre…" (I will have) — both far softer than a blunt "Je veux."
Ordering food — beware the entrée trap
Here is a classic false friend: in French, l'entrée is the starter, not the main course. The main is le plat principal, and dessert is le dessert. So "En entrée, je vais prendre la soupe, et comme plat, le poulet" means soup to start and chicken as your main.
Phrases that make you sound local
- "Qu'est-ce que vous recommandez ?" — What do you recommend?
- "C'était délicieux." — That was delicious.
- "Il nous faut encore une minute." — We need another minute.
Asking for the bill
The bill never comes automatically — that would be seen as rushing you. When you are ready, catch the waiter's eye: "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." A small tip is appreciated but not expected, since service is included (service compris).
A money-saving local move
Tap water is free and completely normal to request: ask for "une carafe d'eau, s'il vous plaît" instead of pricey bottled water. Locals do this constantly.
Lead with Bonjour, remember the entrée trap, and you will blend right in. Pack these phrases — and hundreds more — for your trip with our French phrase books, or browse more French tips on the blog.