Food & drinkAdvanced
Ordering at a bar in English (advanced)
Advanced English for ordering at a bar. Key line: “Hey, could I start with a gin and tonic, not too sweet?”
Full script
Lin
Hey, could I start with a gin and tonic, not too sweet?
Them
Sure thing—single or double, and do you want a lime wedge?
Lin
Just a single, thanks, and could you also start a tab for me?
Them
Absolutely. I'll just need a card—unless you're planning to vanish dramatically.
Lin
Fair point. And can I get a water too? I'm trying to pace myself.
Them
Smart move. Around here, confidence tends to outrun people's hydration.
Lin
Then please put the water where I can see it and feel judged.
Them
Deal—I'll make the gin look shy sitting next to that water.
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
start
✓ Could I start with...?For your first order
Natural for your first drink
tab
✓ start a tabpay later, not now
Common in U.S. bars
pace
✓ pace myselfgo slowly
Often means don't drink too fast
agree
✓ Fair point.You have a point
Light way to agree
Quick answers
start: what to say in English
Say “Could I start with...?” — for your first order. Natural for your first drink.
tab: what to say in English
Say “start a tab” — pay later, not now. Common in U.S. bars.
pace: what to say in English
Say “pace myself” — go slowly. Often means don't drink too fast.
agree: what to say in English
Say “Fair point.” — you have a point. Light way to agree.