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<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Czech|Czech]]  → [[Language/Czech/Vocabulary|Vocabulary]] → [[Language/Czech/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → At the Restaurant → Ordering Food</div>
<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Czech|Czech]]  → [[Language/Czech/Vocabulary|Vocabulary]] → [[Language/Czech/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Ordering Food</div>


__TOC__
Welcome to this engaging lesson on ordering food in Czech! Food is not just sustenance; it's a delightful experience that brings people together. Whether you're traveling in the charming streets of Prague or enjoying a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, knowing how to navigate a menu in Czech can enhance your culinary adventures. This lesson will equip you with essential vocabulary and phrases to confidently order food and drinks while immersing yourself in Czech culture.


== Introduction ==
In this lesson, we'll explore:


In this lesson, we will delve into the world of Czech cuisine and learn how to order food at a restaurant. Food is an essential part of any culture, and Czech cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors and traditions. By expanding your vocabulary and learning how to navigate a menu, you will be able to confidently order your favorite Czech dishes in no time. Whether you are a fan of hearty meat dishes, delicious pastries, or refreshing beverages, this lesson will equip you with the necessary vocabulary and phrases to satisfy your culinary cravings.
* Key Czech vocabulary related to food and drinks


We will begin by exploring the different sections of a typical Czech menu and learning the names of common foods and drinks. Then, we will dive into the process of ordering food at a restaurant, including how to ask for recommendations and make special requests. Along the way, we will also discuss cultural aspects related to Czech dining etiquette and customs.
* Phrases for ordering at a restaurant


By the end of this lesson, you will be able to confidently navigate a Czech menu, order food and drinks, and engage in conversations with waitstaff at restaurants. So let's embark on this gastronomic adventure and explore the flavors of Czech cuisine!
* Common menu items and their translations


== Czech Food and Drink Vocabulary ==
* Practical exercises to reinforce your learning


Before we dive into the process of ordering food, let's familiarize ourselves with some common Czech food and drink vocabulary. This will help us understand the menu and communicate our preferences to the waitstaff. Here are some essential words and phrases:
So, grab a seat, and let’s dig in!


=== Food Vocabulary ===
__TOC__


To begin, let's learn the names of different types of food commonly found on Czech menus:
=== Czech Food Vocabulary ===
 
To kick off our lesson, let's familiarize ourselves with some common food and drink vocabulary in Czech. This will be the foundation for your ordering skills. Below is a table of essential words you'll often encounter on menus.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Czech !! Pronunciation !! English
! Czech !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| Hovězí guláš || [ˈhovjɛˌziː ˈɡulaːʃ] || Beef goulash
 
| jídlo || ˈjiːdlo || food
 
|-
|-
| Smažený sýr || [ˈsmaʒɛniː ˈsiːr] || Fried cheese
 
| nápoj || ˈnaːpoj || drink
 
|-
|-
| Bramborové knedlíky || [ˈbramborovɛː ˈknɛdlɪkiː] || Potato dumplings
 
| polévka || poˈlɛvfka || soup
 
|-
|-
| Svíčková || [ˈsviːtʃkovaː] || Sirloin with cream sauce
 
| salát || saˈlaːt || salad
 
|-
|-
| Řízek || [ˈr̝iːzɛk] || Schnitzel
 
| hlavní jídlo || ˈhlaːvniː ˈjiːdlo || main dish
 
|-
|-
| Vepřová pečeně || [ˈvɛpr̝ovaː ˈpɛʧɛɲɛː] || Roast pork
 
| dezert || dɛˈzɛrt || dessert
 
|-
|-
| Smažený kuřecí řízek || [ˈsmaʒɛniː ˈkur̝ɛtʃiː ˈr̝iːzɛk] || Fried chicken schnitzel
 
| maso || ˈmaso || meat
 
|-
|-
| Guláš || [ˈɡulaːʃ] || Goulash
 
| ryba || ˈrɪba || fish
 
|-
|-
| Bramborák || [ˈbramboraːk] || Potato pancake
 
| zelenina || zɛlɛˈnɪna || vegetables
 
|-
 
| ovoce || ˈɔvɔt͡sɛ || fruit
 
|-
 
| chléb || xˈlɛːb || bread
 
|-
 
| víno || ˈviːno || wine
 
|-
 
| pivo || ˈpɪvo || beer
 
|-
|-
| Zelňačka || [ˈzɛlɲaːtʃka] || Sauerkraut soup
 
| káva || ˈkaːva || coffee
 
|-
|-
| Rajská omáčka || [ˈrajskaː ˈomaːtʃka] || Tomato sauce
 
| čaj || t͡ʃaɪ || tea
 
|-
|-
| Nakládaný hermelín || [ˈnaklaːdaːniː ˈhɛr̝mɛliːn] || Pickled Camembert cheese
 
| cukr || ˈtsuːkər || sugar
 
|-
|-
| Tatarák || [ˈtatar̝aːk] || Beef tartare
 
| sůl || suːl || salt
 
|-
|-
| Sýrové noky || [ˈsiːr̝ovɛː ˈnokiː] || Cheese gnocchi
 
| pepř || ˈpɛpʃ || pepper
 
|-
|-
| Rajská polévka || [ˈrajskaː ˈpolɛːvka] || Tomato soup
 
| máslo || ˈmaːslo || butter
 
|-
|-
| Brambory || [ˈbramborɪ] || Potatoes
 
| mléko || ˈmlɛːko || milk
 
|}
|}


Feel free to practice pronouncing these words and familiarize yourself with their meanings. As you progress, you will become more comfortable using them in conversations at restaurants.
=== Basic Phrases for Ordering ===


=== Drink Vocabulary ===
Now that you have a grasp of the vocabulary, let's look at some basic phrases to help you order food and drinks in Czech. Here are some handy expressions to use when you’re at a restaurant:


Now, let's move on to the drink vocabulary. The Czech Republic is known for its excellent beer, but there are also other refreshing options to explore. Here are some common drinks you may encounter on a Czech menu:
{| class="wikitable"


{| class="wikitable"
! Czech !! Pronunciation !! English
! Czech !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
|-
| Pivo || [ˈpɪvo] || Beer
 
| Měli bychom si objednat. || ˈmjɛlɪ ˈbɪxom si ɔˈbɛdnat || We should order.
 
|-
|-
| Káva || [ˈkaːva] || Coffee
 
| Prosím menu. || ˈprosiːm ˈmɛnu || Please, the menu.
 
|-
|-
| Čaj || [ˈtʃaɪ̯] || Tea
 
| Co doporučujete? || tsɔ dɔpɔˈruːt͡ʃɛtɛ || What do you recommend?
 
|-
 
| Rád bych ... || raːd bɪx ... || I would like ...
 
|-
 
| Dám si ... || daːm si ... || I'll have ...
 
|-
 
| Můžu dostat ...? || ˈmuːʒu ˈdɔstat ...? || Can I get ...?
 
|-
 
| Kolik to stojí? || ˈkɔlɪk tɔ ˈstɔjiː? || How much does it cost?
 
|-
|-
| Víno || [ˈviːno] || Wine
 
| Můžete mi přinést ...? || ˈmuːʒɛtɛ mi ˈpr̝ɪnɛst ...? || Can you bring me ...?
 
|-
|-
| Nealko || [ˈnɛalko] || Non-alcoholic
 
| Děkuji. || ˈɟɛkuji || Thank you.
 
|-
|-
| Limonáda || [lɪmoˈnaːda] || Lemonade
 
| Můžu platit? || ˈmuːʒu ˈplatɪt? || Can I pay?
 
|}
 
=== Common Menu Items ===
 
When you glance at a Czech menu, certain items may pop up frequently. Familiarizing yourself with these items will boost your confidence. Below is a list of common dishes along with their translations:
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
! Czech !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
|-
| Coca-Cola || [koˈtsaːkoˌlaː] || Coca-Cola
 
| svíčková || ˈsviːt͡ʃkovaː || marinated beef with cream sauce
 
|-
|-
| Džus || [dʒus] || Juice
 
| gulas || ˈɡulaʃ || goulash
 
|-
|-
| Minerálka || [mɪnɛˈraːlka] || Mineral water
 
| knedlíky || ˈknɛndlɪki || dumplings
 
|-
|-
| Teplý nápoj || [ˈtɛpliː ˈnaːpoj] || Hot beverage
 
| řízek || ˈʒiːzɛk || breaded fried meat
 
|-
|-
| Ledový čaj || [ˈlɛdoviː ˈtʃaɪ̯] || Iced tea
 
| trdelník || ˈtrdɛlɲiːk || chimney cake
 
|-
|-
| Alkoholický koktejl || [alkoˈɦolɪtskiː ˈkoktɛjl] || Alcoholic cocktail
 
| bryndzové halušky || ˈbrɪndzovɛ ˈhaluʃki || potato dumplings with sheep cheese
 
|-
|-
| Becherovka || [ˈbɛxɛrofka] || Becherovka (a Czech herbal liqueur)
 
| pečená kachna || ˈpɛt͡ʃɛnaː ˈkaχna || roasted duck
 
|-
|-
| Tmavé pivo || [ˈtmaːvɛː ˈpɪvo] || Dark beer
 
| utopenec || uˈtɔpɛnɛts || pickled sausage
 
|-
|-
| Ovocný džus || [ɔˈvotsniː dʒus] || Fruit juice
 
| moravský vrabec || moˈravskiː ˈvrabɛt͡s || Moravian sparrow (pork dish)
 
|-
|-
| Svařené víno || [ˈsvar̝ɛnɛː ˈviːno] || Mulled wine
 
| kulajda || kuˈlaɪda || creamy mushroom soup
 
|}
|}


With these words in your vocabulary, you will be able to confidently order your preferred beverages at Czech restaurants.
=== Tips for Ordering ===
 
Here are some tips to keep in mind while ordering food in Czech:
 
* '''Be polite''': Always use "prosím" (please) and "děkuji" (thank you) when interacting with waitstaff.
 
* '''Practice pronunciation''': Czech can be tricky, so practicing the pronunciation of menu items can be very helpful.
 
* '''Ask questions''': If you’re unsure about a dish, don’t hesitate to ask the waiter for more details.
 
* '''Be adventurous''': Don't just stick to what you know. Try something new; Czech cuisine has a lot to offer!
 
=== Practice Exercises ===
 
Now, let's solidify what you've learned through some practice exercises! Each exercise is designed to help you apply your vocabulary and phrases in realistic scenarios.
 
==== Exercise 1: Translate the Menu Items ====
 
Translate the following food items from English to Czech:
 
1. Soup
 
2. Salad


== Ordering Food at a Restaurant ==
3. Coffee


Now that we have a good understanding of Czech food and drink vocabulary, let's move on to the process of ordering food at a restaurant. Ordering food involves more than just choosing dishes from a menu - it's about communicating your preferences and making informed decisions. In this section, we will explore the different steps involved in ordering food and learn useful phrases and expressions along the way.
4. Fish


=== Step 1: Greeting and Seating ===
5. Dessert


When you enter a restaurant, it's important to greet the waitstaff politely. Here are some common greetings you can use:
''Answers:''


* Dobrý den - Good day
1. Polévka
* Ahoj - Hello
* Dobrý večer - Good evening


After greeting the waitstaff, they will guide you to a table. If you have a preference for indoor or outdoor seating, you can politely ask:
2. Salát


* Můžeme sedět venku? - Can we sit outside?
3. Káva
* Můžeme sedět uvnitř? - Can we sit inside?


Once you are seated, the waitstaff will provide you with menus. Take your time to browse through the options before moving on to the next step.
4. Ryba


=== Step 2: Asking for Recommendations ===
5. Dezert


If you are unsure about what to order or looking for some guidance, don't hesitate to ask the waitstaff for recommendations. They are familiar with the menu and can suggest popular or signature dishes. Here are some phrases you can use:
==== Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks ====


* Co byste nám doporučili? - What would you recommend?
Complete the following sentences with the appropriate Czech words from the vocabulary list:
* Máte nějaké oblíbené jídlo? - Do you have any favorite dish?
* Jaké jsou vaše speciality? - What are your specialties?


Listen attentively to their recommendations and ask for more details if needed. This will help you make an informed decision and try something new and exciting.
1. Dám si _____ (salad).


=== Step 3: Placing the Order ===
2. Měli bychom si _____ (order).


Once you have decided on the dishes you would like to order, it's time to communicate your preferences to the waitstaff. Here are some useful phrases to help you place your order:
3. Můžete mi _____ (bring) _____ (beer)?


* Chtěl bych / Chtěla bych... - I would like...
''Answers:''
* Dám si... - I will have...
* Můžu prosím dostat... - Can I please have...
* Jeden / Jednu / Jedno... - One...
* S... / Bez... - With... / Without...
* Můžete mi přinést... - Could you bring me...


For example, if you would like to order a beef goulash, you can say:
1. salát


* Chtěl bych hovězí guláš. - I would like beef goulash.
2. objednat


Remember to use the correct form of the adjective or pronoun to match the gender and number of the noun you are ordering. The waitstaff may also ask you additional questions about your preferences, such as how you would like your steak cooked or what side dishes you would like to accompany your main course.
3. přinést pivo


=== Step 4: Special Requests ===
==== Exercise 3: Role Play Ordering Food ====


If you have any dietary restrictions or specific requests, it's important to communicate them to the waitstaff. Here are some phrases to help you make special requests:
Pair up with a classmate and practice ordering food using the phrases provided. One person will be the waiter, and the other will be the customer. Use these prompts:


* Mám alergii na... - I have an allergy to...
* Ask for the menu
* Můžete to připravit bez... - Can you prepare it without...
* Můžete to změnit... - Can you change...
* Můžete mi přinést omáčku zvlášť? - Can you bring the sauce separately?
* Můžete to udělat vegetariánské? - Can you make it vegetarian?


By clearly communicating your special requests, the waitstaff will be able to accommodate your needs and ensure an enjoyable dining experience.
* Order your main dish


=== Step 5: Drinks and Extras ===
* Ask for a drink


After placing your food order, the waitstaff will ask you about your drink preferences. If you would like to order drinks or additional items, here are some phrases you can use:
''Example:''


* Můžeme objednat nějaké nápoje? - Can we order some drinks?
Customer: Prosím menu.
* Co byste nám doporučil k jídlu? - What would you recommend to drink with our meal?
* Dám si pivo / kávu / vodu. - I will have beer / coffee / water.
* Můžeme také objednat dezert? - Can we also order dessert?


Feel free to ask for recommendations on pairing drinks with your meal. The waitstaff will be happy to suggest suitable options based on your preferences and the dishes you have ordered.
Waiter: Tady je menu. Co doporučujete?


=== Step 6: Confirming the Order ===
==== Exercise 4: Menu Reading Comprehension ====


Once your food and drink orders are complete, the waitstaff will confirm your order to ensure accuracy. They may repeat your order or ask you to confirm the details. Listen carefully and respond with a simple "Ano" (Yes) or "Je to správně" (It is correct).
Given the following Czech menu items, match them with their English translations:


=== Step 7: Enjoying Your Meal ===
1. Svíčková


After the waitstaff confirms your order, sit back, relax, and enjoy your meal. Take the time to savor the flavors and appreciate the culinary delights of Czech cuisine. If you need anything during your meal, you can politely get the attention of the waitstaff by saying "Promiňte" (Excuse me) or raising your hand slightly.
2. Gulas


== Cultural Insights ==
3. Knedlíky


Czech dining culture is rich in traditions and customs that add to the overall dining experience. Understanding these cultural aspects can enhance your enjoyment and help you navigate the social expectations at restaurants. Let's explore some interesting cultural insights related to Czech dining:
4. Řízek


=== Přivítání a Loučení ===
5. Trdelník


In Czech culture, it is customary to greet the waitstaff upon entering a restaurant and bid them farewell when leaving. This simple gesture shows respect and acknowledges the waitstaff's role in providing a pleasant dining experience. Remember to say "Dobrý den" (Good day) or "Dobrý večer" (Good evening) when entering, and "Děkuji, na shledanou" (Thank you, goodbye) when leaving.
''Answers:''


=== Tipping ===
1. Marinated beef with cream sauce


Tipping is a common practice in Czech restaurants. It is customary to leave a tip for the waitstaff as a token of appreciation for their service. The standard tip is around 10% of the total bill, but you can adjust it based on the quality of service received. When paying the bill, you can say "Můžete přidat spropitné, prosím?" (Can you add the tip, please?). The waitstaff will then calculate the total amount including the tip.
2. Goulash


=== Dining Etiquette ===
3. Dumplings


Czech dining etiquette is relatively informal, but there are some guidelines to keep in mind. Here are a few tips to navigate Czech dining etiquette:
4. Breaded fried meat


* Wait to be seated: In Czech restaurants, it is common to wait for the waitstaff to assign you a table. Avoid seating yourself without permission.
5. Chimney cake


* Napkin usage: Place the napkin on your lap upon sitting down. Use it to wipe your mouth during the meal and place it neatly on the table when you finish.
==== Exercise 5: Create Your Own Order ====


* Cutlery usage: Start with the outermost cutlery and work your way in as the meal progresses. Keep your hands on the table during the meal, but avoid resting your elbows on the table.
Write a short dialogue of you ordering food at a restaurant. Include at least five sentences using the vocabulary and phrases you've learned.


* Pace yourself: Czech meals are often served in multiple courses. Take your time and enjoy each course before moving on to the next. It is considered polite to finish your plate.
''Example:''


* Bread etiquette: In Czech restaurants, bread is often served as a complimentary side. It is customary to break the bread with your hands rather than using a knife.
Customer: Prosím menu. Měli bychom si objednat. Dám si svíčkovou a pivo. Děkuji!


* Toasting: If someone proposes a toast, it is polite to make eye contact and clink glasses with everyone at the table. Say "Na zdraví" (To your health) before taking a sip.
==== Exercise 6: Vocabulary Matching ====


By observing these dining etiquette practices, you can blend in seamlessly with the local culture and have a more authentic dining experience in the Czech Republic.
Match the Czech words with their English meanings:


== Practice Exercises ==
1. Víno


Now let's put our newly acquired knowledge to the test with some practice exercises. These exercises will help reinforce the vocabulary and phrases we have learned so far. Feel free to write down your answers or practice speaking out loud.
2. Mléko


Exercise 1: Match the Czech dish with its English translation.
3. Chléb
{| class="wikitable"
 
! Czech !! English Translation
4. Sůl
|-
 
| Smažený sýr || a. Fried cheese
5. Zelenina
|-
 
| Vepřová pečeně || b. Roast pork
''Answers:''
|-
 
| Rajská omáčka || c. Tomato sauce
1. Wine
|-
 
| Sýrové noky || d. Cheese gnocchi
2. Milk
|-
 
| Guláš || e. Goulash
3. Bread
|}
 
4. Salt
 
5. Vegetables
 
==== Exercise 7: Listening Exercise ====
 
Listen to a recording of a conversation at a restaurant (you can create a simple one) and answer the following questions:
 
1. What did the customer order?
 
2. How much does the meal cost?
 
''Answers will vary based on the recording you create.''
 
==== Exercise 8: Pronunciation Practice ====


Exercise 2: Choose the correct phrase to order the following dishes.
Choose five Czech food items from the vocabulary list and practice pronouncing them. Record yourself and listen for clarity and accuracy.
1. Beef tartare
2. Potato pancake
3. Fried chicken schnitzel


a. Chtěl bych sýrovou noky.
==== Exercise 9: Cultural Comparison ====
b. Dám si smažený kuřecí řízek.
c. Můžeme sedět venku?


Exercise 3: Imagine you have a food allergy. How would you communicate this to the waitstaff? Write a sentence using the phrase "Mám alergii na..." (I have an allergy to...).
Research a traditional Czech dish and compare it to a dish from your own culture. Write a short paragraph describing the similarities and differences.


Exercise 4: Create a dialogue between a customer and a waitstaff, where the customer asks for recommendations and places an order. Be sure to include greetings, asking for recommendations, and ordering food.
==== Exercise 10: Ordering Scenarios ====


== Solutions ==
Imagine you are at a restaurant. Write down what you would order for each of the following scenarios:


Exercise 1:
1. A lunch with friends
1. Smažený sýr - a. Fried cheese
2. Vepřová pečeně - b. Roast pork
3. Rajská omáčka - c. Tomato sauce
4. Sýrové noky - d. Cheese gnocchi
5. Guláš - e. Goulash


Exercise 2:
2. A romantic dinner
1. Beef tartare - b. Dám si smažený kuřecí řízek.
2. Potato pancake - a. Chtěl bych sýrovou noky.
3. Fried chicken schnitzel - b. Dám si smažený kuřecí řízek.


Exercise 3: Mám alergii na... (I have an allergy to...) [insert specific allergen]
3. A family gathering


Exercise 4:
''Answers will vary based on personal preferences.''
Customer: Dobrý den. Co byste nám doporučili?
Waitstaff: Dobrý den. Máme tu dnes výbornou svíčkovou s bramborovými knedlíky. Je to náš nejoblíbenější pokrm.
Customer: Zní to skvěle. Dám si svíčkovou s bramborovými knedlíky, prosím.
Waitstaff: Samozřejmě. A co si dáte k pití?
Customer: Dám si jedno pivo, prosím.
Waitstaff: Okamžik, přinesu vám to.


== Conclusion ==
=== Conclusion ===


Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to order food at a Czech restaurant. By expanding your vocabulary and practicing the phrases and expressions provided, you will be able to confidently navigate a Czech menu and communicate your preferences to the waitstaff. Remember to embrace the cultural aspects of Czech dining, such as greeting the waitstaff and observing dining etiquette. Now you can fully immerse yourself in the flavors of Czech cuisine and enjoy an authentic culinary experience in the Czech Republic.
Congratulations! You've taken your first steps towards confidently ordering food in Czech. Remember, practice makes perfect, and the more you engage with the language, the more fluent you will become. Challenge yourself to use these phrases and vocabulary in real-life situations, and don't shy away from trying new dishes. Czech cuisine is hearty and full of flavors waiting to be explored!


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|title=Czech Vocabulary for Ordering Food - Complete 0 to A1 Course
|description=In this lesson, you will learn common Czech food and drink vocabulary and how to confidently order them at a restaurant. Explore the flavors of Czech cuisine and discover cultural insights related to dining etiquette and customs.
 
|keywords=Czech food vocabulary, ordering food in Czech, Czech restaurant phrases, Czech cuisine, language learning, beginner Czech
 
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==Videos==
==Videos==

Latest revision as of 04:19, 1 August 2024

◀️ Small Talk and Expressing Likes and Dislikes — Previous Lesson Next Lesson — Asking for the Bill and Tipping ▶️

Czech-Language-PolyglotClub.png
Czech → Vocabulary → 0 to A1 Course → Ordering Food

Welcome to this engaging lesson on ordering food in Czech! Food is not just sustenance; it's a delightful experience that brings people together. Whether you're traveling in the charming streets of Prague or enjoying a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, knowing how to navigate a menu in Czech can enhance your culinary adventures. This lesson will equip you with essential vocabulary and phrases to confidently order food and drinks while immersing yourself in Czech culture.

In this lesson, we'll explore:

  • Key Czech vocabulary related to food and drinks
  • Phrases for ordering at a restaurant
  • Common menu items and their translations
  • Practical exercises to reinforce your learning

So, grab a seat, and let’s dig in!

Czech Food Vocabulary[edit | edit source]

To kick off our lesson, let's familiarize ourselves with some common food and drink vocabulary in Czech. This will be the foundation for your ordering skills. Below is a table of essential words you'll often encounter on menus.

Czech Pronunciation English
jídlo ˈjiːdlo food
nápoj ˈnaːpoj drink
polévka poˈlɛvfka soup
salát saˈlaːt salad
hlavní jídlo ˈhlaːvniː ˈjiːdlo main dish
dezert dɛˈzɛrt dessert
maso ˈmaso meat
ryba ˈrɪba fish
zelenina zɛlɛˈnɪna vegetables
ovoce ˈɔvɔt͡sɛ fruit
chléb xˈlɛːb bread
víno ˈviːno wine
pivo ˈpɪvo beer
káva ˈkaːva coffee
čaj t͡ʃaɪ tea
cukr ˈtsuːkər sugar
sůl suːl salt
pepř ˈpɛpʃ pepper
máslo ˈmaːslo butter
mléko ˈmlɛːko milk

Basic Phrases for Ordering[edit | edit source]

Now that you have a grasp of the vocabulary, let's look at some basic phrases to help you order food and drinks in Czech. Here are some handy expressions to use when you’re at a restaurant:

Czech Pronunciation English
Měli bychom si objednat. ˈmjɛlɪ ˈbɪxom si ɔˈbɛdnat We should order.
Prosím menu. ˈprosiːm ˈmɛnu Please, the menu.
Co doporučujete? tsɔ dɔpɔˈruːt͡ʃɛtɛ What do you recommend?
Rád bych ... raːd bɪx ... I would like ...
Dám si ... daːm si ... I'll have ...
Můžu dostat ...? ˈmuːʒu ˈdɔstat ...? Can I get ...?
Kolik to stojí? ˈkɔlɪk tɔ ˈstɔjiː? How much does it cost?
Můžete mi přinést ...? ˈmuːʒɛtɛ mi ˈpr̝ɪnɛst ...? Can you bring me ...?
Děkuji. ˈɟɛkuji Thank you.
Můžu platit? ˈmuːʒu ˈplatɪt? Can I pay?

Common Menu Items[edit | edit source]

When you glance at a Czech menu, certain items may pop up frequently. Familiarizing yourself with these items will boost your confidence. Below is a list of common dishes along with their translations:

Czech Pronunciation English
svíčková ˈsviːt͡ʃkovaː marinated beef with cream sauce
gulas ˈɡulaʃ goulash
knedlíky ˈknɛndlɪki dumplings
řízek ˈʒiːzɛk breaded fried meat
trdelník ˈtrdɛlɲiːk chimney cake
bryndzové halušky ˈbrɪndzovɛ ˈhaluʃki potato dumplings with sheep cheese
pečená kachna ˈpɛt͡ʃɛnaː ˈkaχna roasted duck
utopenec uˈtɔpɛnɛts pickled sausage
moravský vrabec moˈravskiː ˈvrabɛt͡s Moravian sparrow (pork dish)
kulajda kuˈlaɪda creamy mushroom soup

Tips for Ordering[edit | edit source]

Here are some tips to keep in mind while ordering food in Czech:

  • Be polite: Always use "prosím" (please) and "děkuji" (thank you) when interacting with waitstaff.
  • Practice pronunciation: Czech can be tricky, so practicing the pronunciation of menu items can be very helpful.
  • Ask questions: If you’re unsure about a dish, don’t hesitate to ask the waiter for more details.
  • Be adventurous: Don't just stick to what you know. Try something new; Czech cuisine has a lot to offer!

Practice Exercises[edit | edit source]

Now, let's solidify what you've learned through some practice exercises! Each exercise is designed to help you apply your vocabulary and phrases in realistic scenarios.

Exercise 1: Translate the Menu Items[edit | edit source]

Translate the following food items from English to Czech:

1. Soup

2. Salad

3. Coffee

4. Fish

5. Dessert

Answers:

1. Polévka

2. Salát

3. Káva

4. Ryba

5. Dezert

Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks[edit | edit source]

Complete the following sentences with the appropriate Czech words from the vocabulary list:

1. Dám si _____ (salad).

2. Měli bychom si _____ (order).

3. Můžete mi _____ (bring) _____ (beer)?

Answers:

1. salát

2. objednat

3. přinést pivo

Exercise 3: Role Play Ordering Food[edit | edit source]

Pair up with a classmate and practice ordering food using the phrases provided. One person will be the waiter, and the other will be the customer. Use these prompts:

  • Ask for the menu
  • Order your main dish
  • Ask for a drink

Example:

Customer: Prosím menu.

Waiter: Tady je menu. Co doporučujete?

Exercise 4: Menu Reading Comprehension[edit | edit source]

Given the following Czech menu items, match them with their English translations:

1. Svíčková

2. Gulas

3. Knedlíky

4. Řízek

5. Trdelník

Answers:

1. Marinated beef with cream sauce

2. Goulash

3. Dumplings

4. Breaded fried meat

5. Chimney cake

Exercise 5: Create Your Own Order[edit | edit source]

Write a short dialogue of you ordering food at a restaurant. Include at least five sentences using the vocabulary and phrases you've learned.

Example:

Customer: Prosím menu. Měli bychom si objednat. Dám si svíčkovou a pivo. Děkuji!

Exercise 6: Vocabulary Matching[edit | edit source]

Match the Czech words with their English meanings:

1. Víno

2. Mléko

3. Chléb

4. Sůl

5. Zelenina

Answers:

1. Wine

2. Milk

3. Bread

4. Salt

5. Vegetables

Exercise 7: Listening Exercise[edit | edit source]

Listen to a recording of a conversation at a restaurant (you can create a simple one) and answer the following questions:

1. What did the customer order?

2. How much does the meal cost?

Answers will vary based on the recording you create.

Exercise 8: Pronunciation Practice[edit | edit source]

Choose five Czech food items from the vocabulary list and practice pronouncing them. Record yourself and listen for clarity and accuracy.

Exercise 9: Cultural Comparison[edit | edit source]

Research a traditional Czech dish and compare it to a dish from your own culture. Write a short paragraph describing the similarities and differences.

Exercise 10: Ordering Scenarios[edit | edit source]

Imagine you are at a restaurant. Write down what you would order for each of the following scenarios:

1. A lunch with friends

2. A romantic dinner

3. A family gathering

Answers will vary based on personal preferences.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Congratulations! You've taken your first steps towards confidently ordering food in Czech. Remember, practice makes perfect, and the more you engage with the language, the more fluent you will become. Challenge yourself to use these phrases and vocabulary in real-life situations, and don't shy away from trying new dishes. Czech cuisine is hearty and full of flavors waiting to be explored!

Table of Contents - Czech Course - 0 to A1[edit source]


Alphabet and Pronunciation


Nouns and Pronouns


Verbs


Adjectives and Adverbs


Greetings and Introductions


At the Restaurant


Daily Life


History and Traditions


Art and Heritage

Videos[edit | edit source]

How to Order a Coffee in Czech | Super Easy Czech 3 - YouTube[edit | edit source]

Learn Czech - Ordering Beer! - Lesson 12 - YouTube[edit | edit source]


Sources[edit | edit source]


Other Lessons[edit | edit source]



◀️ Small Talk and Expressing Likes and Dislikes — Previous Lesson Next Lesson — Asking for the Bill and Tipping ▶️

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