Language/Czech/Vocabulary/Dining-Etiquette

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Czech Vocabulary → At the Restaurant → Dining Etiquette

As a Czech language teacher for over 20 years, I have found that one of the best ways to understand a culture is through its food. In this lesson, we will explore Czech dining etiquette and customs, so you can truly immerse yourself in the language and culture.

Czech Dining Etiquette

When dining in the Czech Republic, there are some cultural norms to be aware of. Here are a few key practices to keep in mind:

Arrive on time - punctuality is highly valued.

Wait to be seated - it is considered polite to wait to be shown to your table.

Do not start eating until the host offers a toast - it is customary for the host to offer a toast before the meal begins, and is polite to wait until this occurs before starting to eat.

Keep your hands on the table – placing your hands on your lap while eating is considered bad manners.

Say "bon appétit" - in Czech, this phrase is "dobrou chuť" (DOH-broo khoot).

Use utensils appropriately - knives in the right hand, fork in the left hand. When not in use, rest them with the prongs facing down, and the knife blade facing inward.

Do not refuse food or drink - it is considered impolite to refuse food or drink when offered by your host.

Do not leave food on your plate - finishing your plate shows appreciation for the food prepared and served.

Do not tip excessively - tipping 10% to 15% is standard in Czech restaurants.

Common Czech Phrases Used in Restaurants

It is always helpful to have some basic Czech phrases for dining out, especially when traveling in the Czech Republic. Here are some common Czech phrases to help you navigate eating out:

Czech	Pronunciation	English
Jedno pivo prosím	YEHD-noh PEE-voh PRO-seem	One beer, please.
Chci si objednat...	KHT-see see ohb-JED-naht...	I would like to order...
Dárek připravený	DAR-eck PREE-prah-veh-nee	The gift is ready.
Strč prst skrz krk.	STERCHH prst skrs krrk	Stick your finger through your throat (use this phrase instead of "cheese," as it is a more common Czech phrase for taking photos).
Dám si zeleninový salát.	DAHM see zeh-LEH-nih-voh-vee suh-LAHT	I will have the vegetable salad.

Czech Cuisine

Czech cuisine is known for its hearty dishes, often featuring pork, beef, or game as the main ingredient. Bread, dumplings, and potatoes are also staples of Czech meals. Here are a few traditional Czech dishes to try:

Svíčková - a beef sirloin served with a creamy vegetable sauce and cranberry sauce.

Palačinky - thin pancakes that can be filled with either savory or sweet fillings.

Vepřo-knedlo-zelo - the Czech Republic's national dish, consisting of roast pork served with dumplings (knedlíky) and sauerkraut (zelí).

Goulash - a stew made with beef, onions, peppers, and lots of paprika.

Trdelník - a sweet pastry cooked on a spit, rolled in sugar and cinnamon.

Sources

Table of Contents - Czech Course - 0 to A1

Course Presentation

Alphabet and Pronunciation

Nouns and Pronouns

Verbs

Adjectives and Adverbs

Greetings and Introductions

At the Restaurant

Daily Life

History and Traditions

Art and Heritage

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