Mandarin Chinese · Restaurant Phrases
Mandarin Chinese Restaurant Phrases: What to Say at Every Step
China's culinary traditions are incredibly diverse -- from Cantonese dim sum to Sichuan hotpot to Beijing roast duck. Knowing basic Mandarin phrases will enhance your dining experience immensely, as English menus are uncommon outside major hotels. These phrases use Pinyin romanisation with tone marks to guide pronunciation.
Essential Phrases
| Mandarin Chinese | English |
|---|---|
| Liang wei | Table for two |
| Keyi kan yixia caidan ma? | Can I see the menu? |
| Wo xiang dian... | I'd like to order... |
| Mai dan | The check, please |
| Zhege you jianguo/fuzhi/nai zhipin ma? | Does this contain nuts/gluten/dairy? |
| Ni tuijian shenme? | What do you recommend? |
| Hen hao chi | Very delicious |
| Bu yao tai la | Not too spicy |
| Wo dui...guomin | I'm allergic to... |
| Zhege zenme chi? | How do you eat this? |
Cultural Notes
Chinese Dining Etiquette
In China, meals are communal -- dishes are placed in the centre of the table and shared by everyone. It is polite to serve others before yourself, especially elders. Use the serving chopsticks (gongkuai) provided, not your personal ones, when taking food from shared dishes.
Tipping is not customary in China and can even cause confusion. In fact, some restaurants may refuse tips. The price you see is the price you pay. At high-end international hotels, a service charge may be included.
When the bill comes, it is common for one person to pay for the entire table -- splitting the bill is uncommon and can be seen as ungenerous. If someone offers to pay, it is polite to protest briefly before accepting. Tea is often served free and refilled throughout the meal -- signal for more by leaving the teapot lid ajar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I tip in Chinese restaurants?
No. Tipping is not part of Chinese dining culture and can cause confusion. The price on the menu is the full price. Some upscale international hotels may add a service charge.
How do I ask for the bill in China?
Say 'mai dan' or make a writing gesture in the air with your hand. In casual restaurants, you may need to go to the counter to pay. Many restaurants in China accept WeChat Pay or Alipay.
What if I can't read the Chinese menu?
Look for picture menus, which are common. Point at what you want and say 'zhege' (this one). The phrase 'ni tuijian shenme?' (what do you recommend?) is also very helpful.
Is it rude to leave food on the plate in China?
Traditionally, a clean plate suggested the host didn't provide enough food. Leaving a small amount showed satisfaction. However, China's recent 'Clean Plate Campaign' encourages finishing food to reduce waste, so either approach is acceptable now.