Useful English Phrases for Budget-Friendly Eating Abroad

The global culinary tourism market is valued at US$11.5 billion in 2023. It is projected to grow at a CAGR of 19.9% ​​through 2030 as travelers increasingly seek to explore culture and history through local cuisine. But what if you’re on a budget and want to try everything? How to enjoy delicious dishes without emptying your wallet while dining out on a budget abroad? One of the options is to take out a payday loan online and let yourself enjoy the culinary delights of another country. But you can also learn a few simple phrases in English that will help you understand the menu, order delicious food, and, at the same time, not overpay.

Simple Phrases to Order What You Need

A menu in an unfamiliar language with unfamiliar terms can be a real mystery. However, waitpersons, although not always fluent in English, often use phrases that help to understand tourists. Here are some key expressions that will help you place an order without unnecessary difficulties:

• “What do you recommend that’s not too expensive?” This is a great way to ask the waiter about inexpensive options. Locals often know what to serve, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending too much.  This is especially helpful when you're on a budget travel food plan.
• “Is this spicy?” — If you don’t like spicy food, always ask how spicy the dish is. This will help avoid unpleasant surprises, especially if you are not familiar with the local cuisine.
• “What’s the dish of the day?” — The dish is often a more profitable offer, and its cost can be lower than the usual dishes on the menu. Do not be shy to ask what is on special today!
• “Can I see the vegetarian options?” — If you do not eat meat or prefer plant-based food, check whether vegetarian or vegan dishes are on the menu. This will help you avoid confusion and make ordering easier.
• “What’s included in this dish?” — Sometimes dishes can be served with side dishes or additives you did not know about. This phrase will help you understand what exactly will be in your order.
• “Can I modify this dish?” — If you don’t like an ingredient, don’t hesitate to ask for it to be replaced or omitted. This is especially useful if you have allergies or food preferences.

Useful Phrases for Saving

It’s important to check prices and ask the right questions to avoid overspending at a restaurant. Here are some helpful phrases to make your meal both tasty and affordable:

• "Does this come with a side dish?" — Check if sides or extras are included to avoid unexpected charges.
• "Can I get tap water, please?" — Ask for tap water if it’s safe to drink instead of paying for bottled water.
• "What’s included in the price?" — Some restaurants may have hidden charges, like for bread, sauces, or service fees. This can be especially helpful when looking at the approximate prices of restaurants abroad.
• "Do you have smaller portions or half sizes?" — See if you can order a smaller portion if your appetite or budget is limited.
• "Are there any discounts or promotions today?" — Local eateries often offer deals, especially on weekdays or specific dishes.
• "Can I share this dish with someone?" — If portions are large, consider sharing with a companion to save money and try more dishes.

How to Ask for the Bill? 

When it’s time to settle the bill, a few key phrases can help ensure you’re only paying for what you ordered. Here’s how to handle it:

• "Can I see the bill, please?" — A polite way to ask for the bill when you’re ready to pay.
• "Can you break down the charges for me?" — If the total seems higher than expected, request a detailed explanation.
• "Is service included?" — In some countries, service charges are automatically added, while in others, tipping is separate.
• "What is this charge for?" — If you notice an unfamiliar item on the bill, don’t hesitate to ask.
• "Do you accept cash/card?" — Confirm the payment options in advance to avoid surprises at checkout.
• "Can I pay separately?" — If you’re dining with others, ask if splitting the bill can simplify payments.

How to Communicate with Waiters? 

Friendly and polite communication with waiters creates a pleasant atmosphere and ensures better service. Here are some useful phrases to help you out:

• "Excuse me, could you help me, please?" — A polite way to get the waiter’s attention if you need assistance. 
• "May I have some more water/bread, please?" — Use this to request additional items like water or bread.
• "Could you recommend something?" — Ask for the waiter’s advice on what dishes are worth trying if you’re unsure.
• "Can I have this without (ingredient), please?" — Request to remove certain ingredients if you have allergies or dietary preferences.
• "We are in no rush, take your time." — Let the waiter know you’re not in a hurry if you want to enjoy a relaxed meal.
• "Could we have the check, please?" — A polite way to ask for the bill when you’re ready to pay.

Ethics of Eating Abroad: Key Customs to Know

In addition to laws and traditions, etiquette rules are usually followed in every country to avoid awkward situations. During business dinners, it is important to show respect for the local culture and know the table customs of that country.

The Tradition of Clinking Glasses

In Hungary, you might get a dirty look. In 1849, Austria celebrated its victory over Hungary by drinking and clinking glasses with each other in the streets. Some Hungarians have since found this custom offensive.

Empty Plate

It is not customary in China to leave an empty plate. A clean plate without food suggests you are still hungry, meaning the host did not provide a sufficiently filling table. However, for those who decide to visit India or Japan, you should know that leaving even a little food on the plate is a bad habit. In these countries, it implies disrespect for the host and the food, which is considered wasteful.

Eating with Your Hands

Don't worry about getting your hands dirty with beans and sauce in Mexico. Locals think eating tacos with a knife and fork is ridiculous, almost like eating a sandwich with utensils. So if you are offered to eat food with your hands, don't be shy - it's completely normal and in line with local traditions.

Enjoying Food

In Europe, it is customary to enjoy every moment of a meal. A meal is a whole ritual in countries such as France, Italy, or Spain. Here, food is not rushed to be eaten in 10 minutes; on the contrary, the process stretches out for several hours. Enjoy every bite, communicate with friends or family, and do not be afraid to “slow down” time at the table.

Tipping Caution

In Japan and South Korea, tipping is not the norm and can even be considered rude, as it is a sign that you want to "pay for the service." However, in Canada, tipping is mandatory and can range from 10 to 20% of the bill. Find out what is customary in your country to avoid misunderstandings.

Chopsticks

In Japan and other East Asian countries, chopsticks placed vertically in rice are associated with ritual ceremonies performed at funerals. This can be perceived as disrespectful. It is best to place your chopsticks on a special stand or along the plate to avoid awkwardness.

The Right Hand for Eating

In South Asian and Middle Eastern countries, such as India, Pakistan, and Egypt, eating exclusively with the right hand is customary. The left hand is considered "unclean" and is used only for personal needs, such as grooming. Therefore, if you are offered something to take with your hands, remember to use the right one—this is important to avoid violating local norms.

How to Save Money When Eating Abroad?

Getting to know the cuisine is one of the most enjoyable moments of a trip for many travelers. You want to try all the local delicacies, popular traditional dishes, and drinks. Having a small budget, eating in first-class restaurants is difficult or simply impossible. Therefore, these tips are for those who want to eat deliciously without going over the budget:

Don't Eat in the City Center

Let's start with a simple piece of advice that always works. Avoid tourist spots and the city center if you want a budget lunch. There are, of course, exceptions, but there's a 90% chance that lunch in the central square will be significantly more expensive than in a cafe on some inconspicuous street.

Dine Standing

France and Spain were the most visited in 2023. And you should know that in these countries, meals in many cafes will cost less if you pay for your order and pick it up at the cash register or bar. Such establishments will be marked with a sign "self-service." High tables without chairs are installed indoors or outside in such establishments so that you can have a snack standing.

Take Food with You

This does not necessarily have to be a huge container with a first and second course. It can include nuts, cookies, fruits, or any other snacks.

Look for a Cafe for Locals

Look for places where locals dine and don't even have an English menu. Firstly, you'll be able to try real national cuisine. Secondly, such places usually taste better than tourist ones. Thirdly, such restaurants are cheaper. Of course, it's hard to choose a dish randomly, but you can always explain yourself to the waiter "on your fingers" or using the basic expressions listed above.

Buy at the Market

You can buy traditional dishes at the market and ask the sellers about the best way to prepare exotic products. You can also buy ready-made dishes and try them at the market - the prices and quality will be "local," not for tourists. In addition to saving money, visiting the market will be interesting from the point of view of getting to know the local life.

Have Breakfast at the Hotel

For your trip, you can find accommodation that includes breakfast. This allows you to save not only money, but also time. After all, in the morning, you will not have to look for where to have breakfast.

Description: Eating on a budget abroad can be simple with the right phrases. Asking about dish sizes, water, and specials can help you avoid extra costs while enjoying local food.