English for Hotel Staff
English for Airline Staff
English for Food and Drink Staff
English for Tour Guides
English for Nurses and Medical Professionals
English for Police
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English for Hotel Staff
English for Airline Staff
English for Food and Drink Staff
English for Tour Guides
English for Nurses and Medical Professionals
English for Police
Hotel Vocabulary
Word
Meaning
Example sentence
1.adjoining rooms
two hotel rooms with a door in the centre
If you want we can book your parents in an adjoining room.
2.amenities
local facilities such as stores and restaurants
We are located downtown, so we are close to all of the amenities.
3. attractions
things for tourists to see and do
The zoo is our city's most popular attraction for kids.
4. baggage
bags and suitcases packed with personal belongings
If you need help with your baggage we have a cart you can use.
5.Bed and Breakfast
a home that offers a place to stay and a place to eat
I can book you into a beautiful Bed and Breakfast on the lake.
6.bellboy
a staff member who helps guests with their luggage
The bellboy will take your bags to your room for you.
7.book
arrange to stay in a hotel
I can book your family in for the weekend of the seventh.
8. booked
full, no vacancies
I'm afraid the hotel is booked tonight.
9.brochures
small booklets that provide information on the local sites and attractions
Feel free to take some brochures to your room to look at.
10.check-in
go to the front desk to receive keys
You can check-in anytime after four o'clock.
11.check-out
return the keys and pay for the bill
Please return your parking pass when you check-out.
12.complimentary breakfast
free of charge
All of our rooms have complimentary soap, shampoo, and coffee.
13.cot, rollaway bed
a single bed on wheels that folds up
If you need an extra bed, we have cots available
14.deposit
amount paid ahead of time to secure a reservation
You will not receive your deposit back if you cancel.
15.double bed
a bed large enough for two people
They are a family of four, so give them a room with two double beds.
16.floor
a level of the building
The swimming pool is on the main floor
17.front desk, reception
the place where guests go to check in and out and to get information
Towels are available at the front desk.
18.guest
a person that is staying at the hotel
Our washrooms are for guests only.
19.hostel
a very inexpensive place for backbackers and travelers on a budget
In the hostel you probably won't get your own room.
20.hotel manager
person in charge at the hotel
I'll let you make your complaint to the hotel manager.
21.housekeeping, maid
staff members that clean the rooms and linen
Put a sign on the door if you want housekeeping to come in and change the sheets on the bed
22.ice machine
a machine that automatically makes ice that guests can use to keep drinks cold
There is an ice machine by the elevator on all of the even numbered floors.
23.indoor pool
place for guests to swim inside the hotel
The heated indoor pool is open until 10 pm.
inn24.
another word for "hotel"
There's an inn on the other side of town that has a vacancy.
Jacuzzi, hot tub, whirl poo.l25
a small hot pool for relaxation
Our honeymoon room has a personal hot tub.
king-size bed.26
extra large bed
A room with a king size bed costs an extra ten dollars a night.
27.kitchenette
a small fridge and cooking area
Your room has a kitchenette so you can prepare your own breakfasts and lunches.
late charge.28
a fee for staying past the check-out time
You will be charged a ten dollar late charge for checking out after 11 am.
linen.29
sheets, blankets, pillow cases
We will come in and change the linens while you are out of your room.
lobby.30
large open area at the front of the hotel
You can stand in the lobby and wait for your bus.
luggage cart.31
a device on wheels that guests can push their luggage on
Please return the luggage cart to the lobby when you are finshed with it.
maximum capacity.32
the most amount of people allowed
The maximum capacity in the hot tub is ten people.
motels.33
accommodations that are slightly cheaper than hotels
Our motel is very clean and is close to the beach.
noisy.34
loud
The guests next to you have complained that you are being too noisy.
parking pass.35
a piece of paper that guests display in the car window while in the hotel parking lot
Display this parking pass in your window to show that you are a hotel guest.
pay-per-view movie.36
extra charge for movies and special television features
If you order a pay-per-view movie, the charge will appear on your bill.
pillow case.37
the covering that goes over a pillow
Room 201 doesn't need their sheets changed, but they requested one new pillow case.
queen size bed.38
bed with plenty of space for two people (bigger than a double)
They have a queen size bed so the small child can eaily fit in the middle.
rate.39
cost of renting a room for a certain time period
Our rates change depending on the season.
reservation.40
a request to save a specific room for a future date
They say they made a reservation but it doesn't show on the computer.
room service.41
delivery of food or other services requested by guests
If you would like a bottle of wine, just call room service.
sauna.42
a hot room for relaxation, filled with steam
We don't recommend bringing young children into the sauna.
single bed.43
a bed for one person
The economy priced room includes one single bed.
sofa bed, pull-out couch.44
a bed built into a sofa or couch
The room contains a sofa bed so the room actually sleeps five.
towels.45
used to cover and dry the body after swimming or bathing
You can get your swimming pool towels at the front desk.
vacancy.46
vacant
available rooms.47
We only have one vacancy left, and it is for a single room.
valet.48
staff that parks the guests' vehicles
If you leave your car keys with us, the valet will park your car underground.
vending machine.49
a machine that distributes snacks and beverages when you insert coins
The vending machine on the fifth floor has chocolate bars and chips.
view.50
a window that offers a nice image for guests
The room is more expensive because it has a spectacular view of the beach.
wake up call.51
a morning phone call from the front desk, acts as an alarm clock
What time would you like your wake up call?
weight room, workout room, gym.52
a room that guests can use for exercise and fitness
Our weight room has a stair climber and a stationary bicycle.
Front Desk Receptionist
Enterprise Hotels, Lise speaking. How can I help you?
What date are you looking for?
How long will you be staying?
How many adults will be in the room?
I'm afraid we are booked that weekend.
There are only a few vacancies left.
We advise that you book in advance during peak season.
Will two double beds be enough?
Do you want a smoking or non-smoking room?
The dining room is open from 4 pm until 10 pm.
We have an indoor swimming pool and sauna.
We serve a continental breakfast.
Cable television is included, but the movie channel is extra.
Take Exit 8 off the highway and you'll see us a few kilometers up on the left hand side.
The rate I can give you is 99.54 with tax.
We require a credit card number for a deposit.
Guest
I'd like to make a reservation for next week.
Is it necessary to book ahead?
Do you charge extra for two beds?
How much is it for a cot?
Do you offer free breakfast?
Is there a restaurant in the hotel?
Do the rooms have refrigerators?
Do you do group bookings?
Is there an outdoor pool?
Do you have any cheaper rooms?
When is it considered off- season?
Sample Conversation
Receptionist: Thanks for calling Quality Inn. Morine speaking.
Caller: Hello. I'm interested in booking a room for the September long weekend.
Receptionist: I'm afraid we're totally booked for that weekend. There's a convention in town and we're the closest hotel to the convention centre.
Caller: Oh, I didn't realize. Well what about the weekend after that?
Receptionist: So... Friday the seventeenth?
Caller: Yes. Friday and Saturday.
Receptionist: It looks like we have a few vacancies left. We recommend that you make a reservation, though. It's still considered peak season then.
Caller: Okay. Do you have any rooms with two double beds? We're a family of four.
Receptionist: Yes, all of our rooms have two double beds. The rate for that weekend is $129 dollars a night.
Caller: That's reasonable. And do you have cots? One of my daughters might be bringing a friend.
Receptionist: We do, but we also charge an extra ten dollars per person for any family with over four people. The cot is free.
Caller: Okay, but I'm not positive if she is coming. Can we pay when we arrive?
Receptionist: Yes, but we do require a fifty dollar credit card deposit to hold the room. You can cancel up to five days in advance and we will refund your deposit.
Caller: Great, I'll call you right back. I have to find my husband's credit card.
Receptionist: Okay. Oh, and just to let you know...our outdoor pool will be closed, but our indoor pool is open.
Check In
Front Desk Receptionist
What name is the reservation under?
How long will you be staying?
Are you planning on checking out tomorrow?
I'm afraid you can't check in until after 4:00 pm.
What type of vehicle are you driving?
Do you know the license plate number of your vehicle?
Complimentary breakfast is served in the lobby between 8 and 10 am.
I'll give you two room keys.
The dining room is on the main floor at the end of the hall.
Guest
We have a reservation under Jill McMann.
Do you have any vacancies?
Is the hotel booked, or can we get a room for tonight?
How do we get to our room from here?
Is it okay to park out front?
What time is the pool open until?
What time is breakfast served at?
Is it too early to check in?
Can we get a wake-up call?
When is check out time?
The weight room and sauna are on the top floor.
Just call the front desk if you need any extra towels or pillows
Check Out
Front Desk Receptionist
Are you ready to check out?
What room were you in?
How was your stay?
Was everything satisfactory?
Will you be putting this on your card?
And how will you be paying for this?
Would you like to speak to the hotel manager on duty?
I'll just need your room keys, please.
Enjoy the rest of your holiday.
Have a safe trip home.
Guest
We're checking out of room 401.
Sorry we're a bit late checking-out.
I'm afraid we overslept/slept in.
We really enjoyed our stay.
We have a few complaints.
We'll be back next time we're in town.
Sample Conversation
Receptionist: Hi there. Are you checking out now?
Guest: Yes, sorry. I know we're a few minutes late.
Receptionist: That's no problem. It's always really busy at check out time anyway.
Guest: Oh, really. The last hotel we stayed in charged us for a late check out.
Receptionist: The hotel isn't booked this week, so it's not a problem. How was everything?
Guest: The room was great. The beds were really comfortable, and we weren't expecting our own fridge.
Receptionist: I'm glad you liked it.
Guest: The kids were disappointed that the pool wasn't open this morning, though.
Receptionist: I apologize for that. We can't get a cleaner in any earlier than 10 am.
Guest: Well we had a nice swim last night anyhow.
Receptionist: Will you be putting this on your credit card?
Guest: No. I'll pay cash.
Receptionist: OK. So the total comes to $123.67, including tax.
Guest: I thought it was $115 even. That's what they said yesterday when we checked in.
Receptionist: Yes, but there is an extra room charge on your bill.
Guest: Oh, I forgot. My husband ordered a plate of nachos. Sorry.
Receptionist: No problem. So...from $140, here's your change. Now, I'll just need to ask you for your room keys.
hi
great job,that was so useful for me
im looking forward for the rest of it
Getting airline passengers safely and happily from one destination to another requires teamwork. The airline industry employs many different people, from pilots and flight crew to caterers and grounds crew. Many of these jobs require communication in English, whether it be among co-workers or with passengers. Most airline companies require that the flight crew be fluent in at least two languages. English is the most common second language that crew members need to learn. Whether your job is to book passengers on their flights, assist passengers with luggage, or fly the airplane itself, these pages can help you learn important words and expressions to use on the job in the airline industry. Read through the vocabulary, listen to the spoken English, and take the quizzes to test your comprehension.
Airline Vocabulary
Checking-in Passengers
Annoucements
Word
Meaning
Example sentence
airfare.1
cost of a plane ticket
The cost of your meal is covered in your airfare.
aisle.2
the long empty space that you walk down
Please keep your bags out of the aisle so that nobody trips.
aisle seat.3
the seat that is next to the aisle
I'll give you an aisle seat in case you need to walk around with the baby.
assist.4
help
Please wait until everyone is off the plane so that we can assist you.
baggage.5
the bags and suitcases that travellers
put their belongings in I'm afraid your baggage got on the wrong airplane.
baggage, luggage claim.6
place where you pick up your baggage after arrival
The announcement will direct you to the correct baggage claim.
blanket.7
warm covering
If you feel cold I can get you a blanket.
boarding pass.8
part of the ticket that you give to the crew as you step onto the plane
Your must present your boarding pass at the gate.
bumpy, rough.9
up and down movement of the aircraft
It might be a bumpy ride because we are flying through a storm.
cabin.10
interior of the aircraft
There is no smoking allowed inside the cabin.
call light.11
a button passengers can press to get a crew member's attention
If you need anything, just press the call light.
captain.12
the person who is in charge of the plane
Would the kids like to go and meet the captain?
charter.13
discount airline
If you take a charter it will cost you half as much.
cockpit.14
the part of the plane where the captain and his co-pilots sit
We aren't doing any more tours of the cockpit because it's almost time to land.
comfortable.15
a feel good physically, able to relax
Because you have long legs you might be more comfortable in an aisle seat.
complimentary.16
free of charge
We offer complimentary coffee or tea, but you have to pay for alcohol.
co-pilot.17
person who helps the captain fly the plane
If the captain gets sick the co-pilot can take over.
domestic.18
within the same country
You should be at the airport two hours ahead of time for domestic flights.
emergency exit.19
section of the plane that opens in the case of an accident
Are you comfortable sitting next to the emergency exit?
e-ticket.20
airfare purchased on the internet
You will need to present your identification along with your e-ticket.
excess baggage.21
heavier/more bags than you are allowed
You can either pay for your excess baggage or leave one of your bags behind.
first-class.22
more expensive seating, with better services
When you sit in first-class you get a better meal to eat.
gate.23
place where passengers go to wait to board a plane
Gate 3B is down this hall and to your right.
headset, earphones.24.
device that allows passengers to listen to music or a movie
We will be coming around to sell headsets for five dollars.
international.25
worldwide
For international departures, go up one level.
jet lag.26
tiredness due to travelling through different time zones
I'm used to travelling now. My body doesn't suffer from jet lag anymore.
land.27
returning to the ground after being in the air
We will be landing in Tokyo in approximately ten minutes.
life vest, life jacke.t28
a blow-up device that you put on in an emergency over water
Please take a moment to locate the life vest under your seat.
motion sickness.29
a bad feeling in the stomach that passengers get during a rough ride
There is a paper bag in front of you in case you experience motion sickness.
overbooked.30
more passengers than available seats
The flight is overbooked. Four of our passengers will have to wait for the next flight.
overhead bin/compartment.31
place above the seats for storing luggage
You'll have to put your bag under your seat because all of the overhead bins are full.
over-sized baggage.32
items that do not fit in suitcases
Infant car seats and sporting equipment can be picked up at the over-sized baggage counter.
oxygen mask.33
a device that goes over a person's face, provides air in case of cabin air pressure loss
Put your oxygen mask on first before putting one on your child.
passport.34
document that proves a person's identification and nationality
Please have your passport out when you go through security.
pilot.35
the person who drives the plane
The pilot is circling over the airport until it is safe to land.
refreshments.36
drinks and snacks
It's a short flight, so we will be serving refreshments but not a meal.
row.37
a number of seats beside each other
You are in seat B of row nine.
runway.38
the strip of land that an airplane takes-off and lands on
The plane almost missed the runway because it was such a bad storm.
seatbelt.39
device that holds passengers in their seats
Please remain in your seats while the seatbelt light is on.
steward (male), stewardess (female), flight attendant, air host.40
man or woman who provides service for passengers during a flight
Ask one of the stewardesses for a pillow if you're tired.
stopover.41
touching down at more than one airport during a flight
It's not a direct flight. We're making one stopover in Toronto.
take off.42
when the plane leaves the ground
We are next in line to take off on this runway.
taxi in, out.43
driving an airplane to the correct place for taking off or deboarding
Please remain in your seats until we taxi in to the gate.
touch down.44
when the aircraft wheels land on the ground
That was a very smooth touch down.
turbulence.45
rough flight
This turbulence should only last a few minutes.
wheelchair.46
a seat for pushing elderly, disabled, or injured people
A steward will take you to the gate with a wheelchair.
window seat.47
seat next to the window where passengers can look out
If your child wants a window seat I can move you back a row
Can I see your ticket, please?
Do you have your passport with you?
I'm afraid your passport has expired.
Do you have a second piece of identification?
I'll need to see your child's birth certificate.
How many bags are you checking?
Will you be bringing a carry-on bag?
I'm afraid that bag exceeds the size restrictions.
Did you pack your bags yourself?
Would you like an aisle or a window seat?
Would you like a wheelchair?
You'll board at Gate 7.
Please be at the gate thirty minutes before your scheduled flight.
Did you need any tags for your luggage?
Your flight is expected to take off on time.
Your flight has been delayed by one hour.
Flight 87B to Toronto has been canceled.
I'm afraid you're too late to check-in.
Your flight is overbooked. Would you be interested in giving up your seat?
Enjoy your flight
Passenger
I'm not sure which of these papers is my ticket.
Is it possible to get an aisle seat?
I requested a vegetarian meal. Can you check to confirm?
Can I take my child through security?
Is the flight on time?
Will they be serving a meal today?
Will they be showing an inflight movie?
Where can I get a luggage cart?
Can I use my laptop on board?
Sample Conversation
Check-in Assistant: Hello. Are you flying to St. Martin today?
Passenger: Yes, I have my ticket here.
Check-in Assistant: Great. I'll need to see your passport as well.
Passenger: I have an e-ticket. Uh...is this the part you need?
Check-in Assistant: Actually I just need your name and I can find you on the computer.
Passenger: Oh OK. It's Bates. Frank Bates.
Check-in Assistant: Great. Here we are. Oh, you're traveling with an infant today.
Passenger: Yes, my daughter Mia. She's 14 months.
Check-in Assistant: Okay. I'll need to see your daughter's birth certificate to prove that she is under two
years of age.
Passenger: Here you are. Say, would we be able to get an aisle seat? I may have to walk her around if she gets fussy.
Check-in Assistant: Sure. I'll put you near the washroom too.
Passenger: Thanks. Can I take my stroller to the gate?
Check-in Assistant: Yes, we'll check it in the over-sized luggage after you board. Are you just checking these two bags today?
Passenger: Yes, I'll take my knapsack as my carry-on.
Check-in Assistant: Did you pack these bags yourself?
Passenger: Yes.
Check-in Assistant: Okay. Here is your boarding pass. Be at the gate one hour prior to boarding time. You will be able to preboard because you are traveling with an infant. Our flight crew will have some special instructions for take-off and landing.
Pre-boarding Announcement
Good afternoon passengers. This is the pre-boarding annoucement for flight 89B to Rome. We are now inviting those passengers with small children, and any passengers requiring special assistance, to begin boarding at this time. Please have your boarding pass and identification ready. Regular boarding will begin in approximately ten minutes time. Thank you.
Final Boarding Announcement
This is the final boarding call for passengers Erin and Fred Collins booked on flight 372A to Kansas City. Please proceed to gate 3 immediately. The final checks are being completed and the captain will order for the doors of the aircraft to close in approximately five minutes time. I repeat. This is the final boarding call for Erin and Fred Collins. Thank you.
Pre-flight Announcement
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome onboard Flight 4B7 with service from Hong Kong to San Francisco. We are currently third in line for take-off and are expected to be in the air in approximately seven minutes time. We ask that you please fasten your seatbelts at this time and secure all baggage underneath your seat or in the overhead compartments. We also ask that your seats and table trays are in the upright position for take-off. Please turn off all personal electronic devices, including laptops and cell phones. Smoking is prohibited for the duration of the flight. Thank you for choosing Mountain Airlines. Enjoy your flight.
Captain's Announcement
Good afternoon passengers. This is your captain speaking. First I'd like to welcome everyone on Rightwing Flight 86A. We are currently cruising at an altitude of 33, 000 feet at an airspeed of 400 miles per hour. The time is 1:25 pm. The weather looks good and with the tailwind on our side we are expecting to land in London approximately fifteen minutes ahead of schedule. The weather in London is clear and sunny, with a high of 25 degrees for this afternoon. If the weather cooperates we should get a great view of the city as we descend. The cabin crew will be coming around in about twenty minutes time to offer you a light snack and beverage, and the inflight movie will begin shortly after that. I'll talk to you again before we reach our destination. Until then, sit back, relax and enjoy the rest of the flight.
Safety Briefing
Ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of the crew I ask that you please direct your attention to the monitors above as we review the emergency procedures. There are six emergency exits on this aircraft. Take a moment to locate the exit closest to you. Note that the nearest exit may be behind you. Count the number of rows to this exit. Should the cabin experience sudden pressure loss, stay calm and listen for instructions from the cabin crew. Oxygen masks will drop down from above your seat. Place the mask over your mouth and nose, like this. Pull the strap to tighten it. If you are traveling with children, make sure that your own mask is on first before helping your children. In the unlikely event of an emergency landing and evacuation, leave your carry-on items behind. Life rafts are located below your seats and emergency lighting will lead you to your closest exit and slide. We ask that you make sure that all carry-on luggage is stowed away safely during the flight. While we wait for take off, please take a moment to review the safety data card in the seat pocket in front of you.
Vocabulary
la carte
without a side dish
Is it possible to get the steak à la carte? I don't eat potatoes.
à la mode
with ice cream
Would you like your apple pie à la mode?
alcohol, liquor
a distilled liquid such as rum or whiskey
This beer has 5% alcohol.
all you can eat
customers pay one fee and can eat as much as they wish
These are all you can eat fries, so let me know if you want more.
appetizer
small snack before a meal
Would you like some garlic bread or another appetizer to start?
appetizing
looks pleasing to eat
I'm afraid these pancakes don't look very appetizing.
apron
a cloth covering worn over the clothes while cooking
Remove your apron before you come out to the dining room.
awful (taste)
very bad taste
The customer said that her pasta was awful.
bar
place in an establishment where people go to get a drink (especially alcoholic drinks)
If you sit up at the bar you don't have to order any food.
barbeque
/southern style of cooking over a grill
The barbeque wings are our specialty.
barstool
tall seats that customers use at the bar
The guest fell off his barstool before he even ordered a drink.
bartender
staff member that mixes, pours, and serves alcoholic beverages
I do part-time work as a bartender in
a local pub.
beverage
drink
Can I bring you some beverages while you look at the menus?
bill, cheque, check
the slip of paper that tells the customer how much to pay
Table 3 would like you to bring them their cheque.
black coffee
+ coffee without any milk
Should I bring some cream, or do you take your coffee black?
boil
style of cooking that involves placing food in a deep pot of extremely hot water
We usually boil the potatoes first so that they will cook faster.
book off
mark a day that you cannot work
I need to book off the first week of May.
booster seat
a plastic unit that fits on top of a chair to help small children reach the table
Will your child be needing a booster seat today?
booth/bench
type of seating in which people sit side by side on a cushioned area
We'd prefer a booth if you have one available.
booze
(idiom) alcohol
You've been into the booze already, haven't you?
bottle opener
a device used for opening beer bottles that don't twist off
All of the servers keep bottle openers on their keychains.
bread basket
slices of bread and butter served before and with a meal
I'll bring you a bread basket to hold the kids down until dinner.
breaded
rolled and cooked in bread crumbs
The shrimp is breaded in our homemade batter.
buffet
self-serve tables of food that are set out for the customer to pick and choose from
The plates and everything you need are up at the buffet.
burnt
overcooked to the point of turning black
The toast is burnt around the edges.
buspan
rubber tub used for collecting dirty dishes
The buspan is stacked so high it's too heavy for me to carry.
busboy, busser
a person who helps out in a restaurant (especially clearing and setting tables)
Ask the busboy to help you bring out all of the food.
cash
paper money payment
I don't have any cash. Do you accept Visa?
cash out
counting and submitting the payment of all of the customers bills at the end of one's shift
Don't forget to include any coupons from tonight when you cash out later.
cashier
staff member responsible for collecting customer's money at the front of an establishment
We don't have a cashier; you have to pay your server.
charge
to add a fee
I will have to charge you an extra dollar to add ice cream.
check on
make sure the guests are satisfied
You should always check on your guests about two minutes after you serve the meal.
chef
staff member who is professionally trained to prepare food
Our head chef is one of the best cooks in town.
clear
remove finished or unused items from a table
You need to clear this table and set it for four.
cocktail
an alcoholic drink with juice
Would anyone care for a cocktail on this warm sunny day?
coffee maker
machine that dispenses coffee into a glass container for pouring
You need to teach the new waitress how to operate the coffee maker.
coffee round
an offering of coffee and refills around a section of a restaurant
Let's ask the busboy to do a coffee round while we take a smoke break.
combo, combination
mixture
The combo platter has veggies, ribs, and chicken fingers.
comment card
a piece of paper that customers are given to record their dining experience
When she asked for a comment card I knew she was going to complain about the food.
complaint
a problem with service or food
The guest brought his complaint to the manager.
condiments
types of sauces that are added for flavouring (i.e. mustard)
All of the condiments you should need are on the table.
cook
prepare and heat food until it is ready to serve
The guest says that this chicken isn't cooked enough.
corkscrew
tool for removing the cork from the top of a wine bottle
. You will need to learn how to work a corkscrew before you start bartending.
counter
flat area often used for placing dishes on or preparing food
I left one of the salads on the kitchen counter by mistake.
coupon
a slip of paper that offers the customers a discounted rate
Your coupon is only valid for food, not for alcoholic drinks.
complimentary
free of charge
The desserts are complimentary because the dinner took so long.
creamer
small plastic container of cream for coffee
Will you need more than two creamers for your coffee?
credit card
a plastic card that allows people to pay for something later
You forgot to sign your credit card slip.
customer, guest
person who goes to an establishment to be served
It is our policy that the customer is always right.
customer service
treatment of guests
Our restaurant got the award for having the best customer service this year.
cutlery, silverware, utensils
tools for eating with (fork, knife, spoon)
In a fine dining restaurant the staff has to polish the silverware.
cut off
fstop serving a customer any more alcoho
I cut off the man with the beard because he'd had too much to drink.
debit
use bank card to pay directly from bank account
Can we pay by debit here, or do you only take credit cards?
deep fried
cooked in a large pot of oil
Most of the appetizers on our menu are deep fried.
defrost, thaw
remove frozen food from the freezer to prepare
Don't forget to defrost some pies for tomorrow.
delicious
very good taste
The cookies were so delicious they were gone in half an hour.
delivery
food brought to the home
Do you have delivery or do we have to come in to eat?
designated driver
person in a party who agrees not to consume alcohol in order to drive everyone home safely
Is there a designated driver in your party or are you taking a taxi?
dessert
sweet treat after a meal
I think we're too full to have dessert tonight.
dessert tray
a plate of all of the desserts that customers can view and order from I'll bring the dessert tray around and see if I can tempt any of you with a slice of cake or pie.
dirty dishes
plates that customers are finished with
I'll just clear these dirty dishes and make some room for you.
discount
at a cheaper cost
We got a discount because we are regular customers.
dishpit
area in the restaurant where the dirty dishes are placed.
Jody is not going to want to go into the dishpit today.
dishwasher
the staff member/machine that washes the dirty dishes
Can you bring the dishwasher these pans to clean?
doggie bag
unfinished food that is packed up for the customer to take home
I can't finish my steak, but I'll take a doggie bag.
double
two shots of alchohol in one drink
Make that a double in a tall glass, please.
draft
beer from a keg that pours out of a tap
We have a selection of local beers on draft.
dressing
liquid topping for salads
Would you like Italian or French dressing?
dry
no sauce
I'll have dry toast with two eggs.
entrée, main course
the largest part of a meal (after appetizer, before dessert
The entrées are after the lunch specials on page 6 of the menu.
fast-food
an eatery that offers quick inexpensive food
We don't provide table service. This is a fast-food restaurant.
fine dining
a very expensive eating establishment
The waiters wear bowties because it's a fine dining restaurant.
float
small amount of cash used to make change at the beginning of a server or bartender's shift
I need a roll of quarters for my float.
free refills
beverages that can be filled again without any cost
Have all of the soda you want; it's free refills here.
fry
cook over an element in oil
Don't fry the vegetables too long or they will go soggy.
garnish
food that is added to a plate for appearance or colour(i.e. parsley or fruit)
Don't forget to garnish all of the entrees that go out.
glassware
group of drinking glasses
Make sure the glassware doesn't have any spots before you put it away.
gloves (plastic)
covering for the hands to prevent the spread of germs
Whenever you are handling food make sure you are wearing gloves.
gratuity/tip
extra money given as a thank you for service When we have a large party
we're allowed to add a 15% gratuity to the bill.
greet
say hello and welcome customers to the establishment
Your priority as a hostess is to greet the guests at the door with a smile.
grill
cooking over iron slats that allow for oil and fat to drop down
The healthiest way to prepare meat is on a grill.
hairnet
a covering worn on the head while preparing food
If you don't want to wear a hat, you can wear a hairnet
happy hour
short amount of time when alcoholic drinks are on sale
We're expecting a rush because it's almost happy hour.
highball
alcohol served with soda
Our highballs are on for half price today.
highchair
a tall chair with a plastic tray designed for a baby
The party is for ten plus a highchair.
hold
leave off/without
I'll take a hamburger, hold the bun.
homemade
made from a recipe
We serve the best homemade soup in town.
host, hostess
staff member in charge of greeting and seating customers in a restaurant
Please wait and the hostess will seat you.
ingredients
all of the different foods that are combined in a recipe
I'll check the ingredients to make sure there aren't any nuts.
kettle
pot for boiling water for tea
I'll put the kettle on and make some fresh tea.
last call
the last chance for a person to get an alcoholic drink before the establishment closes
We'll have two more screwdrivers for last call.
lemon, lime wedge
a small segment of lemon or lime put on the rim of a glass
I'd like a lemon wedge for my ice water please.
lineup
a number of people waiting for something
Is this the lineup to pay or get seated
liqueur
alcohol that has a syrupy/sweet taste
Can I offer you a coffee liqueur to go with your dessert?
make change
give customers money back from a payment
We can make change if all you have is large notes.
manager
person in charge of a section of a restaurant
I'd like to speak to the floor manager about the service.
melt
warm to soften (i.e. cheese/butter)
First, melt two tablespoons of butter in the microwave.
menu
a booklet of all of the food that can be ordered
Do you have a children's menu we could see?
microwave
a small appliance that heats and cooks food quickly
We can heat your dinner in the microwave if you like.
mild
not spicy
I'd like a half dozen mild chicken wings.
nightclub
establishment where adults go to dance and drink alcoholic beverages
If you work at the nightclub you will have to stay until 2 AM.
non alcoholic beverage
a drink that resembles a certain drink without the alchohol
Can I order a non alcoholic beer?
notepad
paper that a server uses to write down orders
Just let me grab my notepad and I'll take your order.
on the rocks
on ice
I'll take a whiskey on the rocks.
on the side
request for a food item to NOT be put on top of another food item
For the nachos, can we have the sour cream on the side?
order
make a request to a server
Is everyone ready to order lunch now?
over charge
give a customer a bill that is too high (by mistake)
I think you over charged us for our drinks; we only had one each.
pack up
put in a take-out container for the customer to bring home
Would you like me to pack up the rest of that pizza?
party
group of people at or waiting for a table
A party of twelve just walked in without a reservation.
patio
outdoor seeating
We closed the patio because it looks like it's going to rain.
paycheque
money given to the staff every week or two
You'll get a paycheque every other Monday.
pitcher, jug
a container with a spout to pour water, beer, or other beverages out of
We'll take a pitcher of beer with four glasses.
portion
a separate amount of food
The chicken fingers are already portioned in the freezer.
pour
dispense liquid from a container
Can I pour you folks another glass of water?
prepare
get food ready
The servers have to prepare the salads themselves.
pub
establishment that specializes in casual food and alcoholic beverages
I can wear whatever I want when I work at the pub.
punch clock and punch card
a machine that staff members place a card into when they begin and finish a work shift
I don't want staff members hanging around the punch clock.
punch in, out
put a card in the punch clock to mark the time you start and end a shift
You can punch out as soon as you finish sweeping the floors.
punch something in
enter an order into a computer system
I'm going to punch in a large order now, so get ready.
rare
cooked meat that is pink inside
This steak is too rare for me to eat.
recipe
list of ingredients and instructions for preparing a certain type of food
Our chef is so talented that he almost never bothers with a recipe.
regulars
people who come into an establishment often
You can give the regulars a complimentary drink from time to time.
reservation
a request to have a table saved for a certain amount of people
We don't take any reservations; it's first come first served here.
restrooms
place for people to use a toilet and wash hands
The restrooms are to your left and down the stairs.
roll-up
a set of cutlery wrapped in a napkin
Before we punch out we have to prepare enough roll-ups for the night shift.
rush
a large amount of customers arriving at the same time
We always have a rush after church on Sundays.
rush
prepare quickly for a certain reason
Can you put a rush on this spaghetti; I forgot to punch it in.
sauce
liquid flavouring added to food
What kind of sauce would you like on your ice cream, butterscotch or chocolate?
schedule
a notice of the time and date each staff member has to work in a certain period of time
If you want to book off a day, let me know before I make the schedule.
seasoning
dry flavouring added to food
He wants the chicken plain without any seasoning.
self-serve
the customers bring their own food items to the table and do not pay for service
We have a buffet on, so it's self-serve for lunch.
senior's discount
a reduced price for people over a certain age (i.e. over 65)
We have a senior's discount of 25% off on Mondays.
separate cheques
a different bill for each member/group sitting at a table
We asked for separate cheques but it all came on one bill.
serve
look after a customer, bring items to a customer
Is there someone in charge of serving out on the patio?
set
get a table ready with items such as cutlery and glassware
I need you to clear and set table five for a party of eight.
shade
place outside that is not in the sun
We'd like to sit on the patio if there is any shade.
shot
one ounce of alcohol served in a small glass (shot glass)
Let's do a shot to get this party started.
shooter
an ounce of alcohol and juice combined
Is there a shooter that has orange juice in it?
side dish
choice of food that goes with a main meal
The two side dishes are mashed potatoes or french fries.
sour
acid or fermented taste
I think the milk has gone sour from sitting out of the fridge too long.
sous chef
staff member who works under and assists the main
chef Our sous chef is leaving to become the head chef at another restaurant.
specials
items that were prepared particularly for a certain day and are usually at a reduced price
Would you like to hear the specials before you decide on lunch.
specialty
food item that a restaurant is popular for
Homemade fish and chips is our specialty.
spicy
hot flavour
Any item with three chilies beside it means that the dish is very spicy.
stay
to eat in the restaurant
Are these coffees to go or to stay.
stir, mix
spin round and round with a spoon
Stir the soup for a few minutes before you serve it.
straw
long hollow plastic stick for drinking out of Can
I please get a straw for my ice tea?
straight up
alcoholic drink without any mix or ice
He always has a straight up glass of rum after his meal.
substitute
replace one item for another
Can I substitute the carrots for corn?
supervisor
staff member in charge of watching over things and dealing with problems
When I'm not here George will be your supervisor.
sweet
taste with a lot of sugar
If you like sweet things, you'll love our chocolate cheesecake.
take-out
food that is packed up and eaten at home
You can either eat in or order food to take-out.
two-minute check
a visit to a table approximately two minutes after the food has been served to check for satisfaction
Don't forget to do your two-minute check to make sure the steak is cooked properly.
terminal
computer system for punching in food orders
There's one terminal in the kitchen and one on the bar.
till
drawer of a cash register that money is kept in
You need a key to open the till and make change.
toppings
food items that go on top of other food items to add flavour
What type of toppings would you like to have on your pizza?
uniform
clothing that staff members have to wear
The uniform here is black pants and a white shirt.
waiter, waitress
staff member in charge of taking orders and serving food and beverages
When I got promoted from a hostess to a waitress I started making tips.
waiting list
list of groups who want a table to eat at
We have a twenty minute waiting list tonight.
warm up
heat food to an enjoyable temperature for eating
Would you mind warming up the baby's bottle for me?
well- done
cooked for longer than average
The meat was so well-done it had no flavour.
wine list
a menu of all of the wine you can order from the glass, litre, or bottle
You will notice that we have a lot of local wine on our wine list.
winery
a place where wine is made, tasted, and sold
There is another winery up the hill that you might enjoy stopping at.
wine tasting
sampling different types of wine
If you are intersted in trying some wines you should go on a wine tasting tour.
yo pal
two big thumbs up to your patience and self confidece.
good luck honey
gocha
If you are going to be working in a restaurant, it is important that you understand the menu. Different menus use different words to mean the same thing. They also use certain words to make food sound more delicious. It isn't just the server who should know the menu. Hosts, bartenders, and bussers may also get asked questions about the menu from the guests. Cooks have to know the menu inside-out as well. After all, if an item says it is smothered in mozzerella cheese it can't just have a sprinkling of cheddar.
Most menus are divided into sections. You may need to help a guest find the entrees, or desserts. A guest might call a drink a beverage or a refreshment. Learn the different terms that are used so that you can understand and serve your guests promptly and accurately.
Menu Section
Name
Also Known As
Example Items
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Appetizers Appies,/ Finger Food, Combo Platters, Snacks, Starters /Garlic Bread, Cheese Plate, Nachos
Salads (and Soups) /Garden Fresh, Greens, Light Fare, Lighter Favourites, Low Calorie Choices, Low-fat Selections /Tossed Salad, Caesar Salad, Soup of the Day
Sandwiches Burgers,/ From the Deli, From the Grill, Lunch Menu, Wraps /Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Veggie (Garden) Burger, Steak Sandwich
Italian/ Noodles, Pasta, Pizza /Spaghetti, Pepperoni Pizza, Fettucini
Main Course Entrée,/ Dinners, Main Dish, Main Event / New York Steak, Chicken Stirfry, Hearty Stew
Sides Accompaniments, /On the Side, Side Dishes /French Fries, Rice, Grilled Veggies
Seafood / Catch of the day, Fish, Fresh from the Sea /Fish and Chips, Battered Shrimp, Smoked Salmon
Mexican /South of the Border, Tex-Mex / Fajitas, Nachos, Enchilladas
Specialties/ Signature items, Favorites, Pleasers, 5 Stars/ BBQ Ribs, Hot Wings, Chicken Cordon Bleu
Desserts/ Sweets, Treats, For the Sweet Tooth /Apple Pie, Mocha Cheesecake, Banana Split
Beverages/ Drinks, Non-alcoholic beverages, Refreshments/ Soda Pop, Juice, Milk
Wine and Beer/ Coolers, Draft, Liquor, Specialty Drinks, Spirits, From the Bar /House Wine, Jug of Beer, Peach Cider
Kids Menu /Juniors, Kids Stuff, Little Tikes, For the Munchkins /Spaghetti and Meatballs, Cheeseburger, Chicken Fingers
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Descriptive Words and Expressions on a Menu
Menus often contain special language to make items sound delicious. These words and expressions can also convince the guests to order more food, such as appetizers or dessert. It is useful for servers to learn these expressions in order to sound more knowledgable and achieve better sales. In many English speaking countries, especially North America, having higher sales means earning better tips.
Description
Meaning
Example item
available with
Guests can have this food served a different way.
All burger selections are available with whole wheat buns.
bottomless (free refills)
Guests can have more without paying.
Coffee and tea is bottomless.
chunky
many large pieces of meat or vegetables
A steaming bowl of chunky vegetable soup
coated in, glazed
covered in a sauce (often before cooking)
Breast of chicken coated in teriyaki sauce
crispy
makes a crunchy sound when you chew
Caesar salad with fresh lettuce and crispy croutons
drizzled with
a small amount of liquid poured over top
Apple pie and vanilla ice cream drizzled with butterscotch
finished with
final step of the food preparation
A generous portion of spaghetti and garlic tomato sauce, finished with homemade meatballs
fresh
just off the farm/ out of the garden/
All omelettes are made with three fresh egg whites.
garnished with
decorated with
Our dinners are garnished with fresh parsley and seasonal fruit.
generous portion, heaping, loaded with
a large amount of
All sandwiches are served with a generous portion of fresh cut fries.
home style, homemade, made from scratch
from a recipe (not a package)
Try our chef's homemade chili with fresh baked bread.
juicy
with liquid remaining for taste
Garden salad with juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions
lightly breaded, battered
rolled in bread crumbs, eggs, or other mixture and cooked
Our fish is lightly battered in beer.
marinated in
left in fridge to soak up sauce/juice/flavoring
Our steaks are marinated in a rich peppercorn sauce.
medley
variety, mixture
A vegetable medley tossed in olive oil and served over rice
mouth watering
appearance causes mouth to salivate
Finish your meal off with one of our mouth watering desserts.
on a bed of
on top of
a layer of A ginger chicken stir fry served on a bed of rice
seasonal
produce varies at different times during the year
Ask your server about our seasonal fruit pies.
seasoned with
herbs and spices added
Roasted chicken seasoned with fresh basil and oregano
Tending bar requires special skills, such as learning special recipes, measuring, mixing and serving drinks, and chatting with guests. No matter which country you are working in, you are sure to come across English patrons who want a cold drink. Study the lists and expressions bartenders use. Then read the dialogue and check your understanding.
Glassware
half litre/litre
a glass container for serving house wine
highball glass
a tall straight glass
mug
a cup or glass with a handle used for hot beverages
pint glass
20 oz glass for draft
pitcher/jug
approximately 60 oz container for draft or water
rock glass/tumbler
short glass for mixed drinks
shot glass
1 oz glass for shots and shooters
sleeve
12 oz glass for draft
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Classic Cocktails
Black Russian
vodka, coffee liqueur, on ice (for a white russian-add milk)
Bloody Mary
vodka, tomato juice, tobasco sauce, worchestershire sauce, salt, pepper, celery salt, slice celery, on ice
Cosmopolitan
vodka, orange liqueur, cranberry juice, lime, on ice
Daquiri
light rum, lime juice, sugar, blended with ice (for a strawberry daquiri use strawberry mix or syrup)
Long Island Iced Tea
vodka, gin, rum, orange liqueur, lemon juice, cola, on ice
Margarita
tequila, lime, salt, blended with ice
Martini
gin, dry vermouth, (garnish with olive)
Pina Colada
rum,coconut milk, pineapple juice, blended with ice
Screwdriver
vodka and orange juice, on ice
Tom Collins
gin, lemon juice, sugar, soda water, on ice
Common Liquor
Gin
clear alcohol flavoured with juniper berries
Liqueur
various sweet alcohols
Rum
clear alcohol made from sugar cane, origin Caribbean
Vodka
clear alcohol made from grain or potato, origin Russia
Whisky (Rye in Canada)
light brown alcohol made from grain, origin Scotland
Tequila
golden or clear alcohol, origin Mexico
Beer and Coolers
Domestic
beer from country that bar is located in
Local
beer brewed nearby
Cans
beer served in a tin
Bottles
beer served in glass bottle
Draft
beer on tap
Keg
beer in a large barrel
Ciders
alcoholic drink from apples or other fruit
Coolers
premixed and bottled alcoholic drinks
Sample Conversation
Bartender: Hi there. What can I get for you?
Guest: I need something cold.
Bartender: You've come to the right place.
Guest: Do you have any specials on?
Bartender: We have highballs on for half price.
Guest: Sorry, I meant for beer.
Bartender: Our beer special tonight is a pitcher of local draft with a half dozen wings for $12.99.
Guest: I guess I should have brought a friend. I think I'll just have a Heineken for now.
Bartender: Sure, would you like that on tap or in a can?
Guest: Do you have it in a bottle?
Bartender: No, I'm afraid we don't.
Guest: That's okay. I'll take a pint.
Bartender: A pint of Heineken coming up.
Guest: Actually, you better just make it a sleeve.
Bartender: Sure. And should I start you a tab?
Guest: No, I'm driving. How much do I owe you?
Bartender: $5.25.
Guest: Here's 6. Keep the change.
Bartender: Thank you.