Overview
This lecture discusses types of American restaurants, the tipping culture in the US, and useful English expressions for dining out.
Types of American Restaurants
- Fast-food restaurants offer quick, inexpensive meals like burgers (e.g., McDonald's, Burger King).
- Chain or franchise restaurants have multiple locations across the country or cities.
- Family-owned restaurants are sometimes called "ma and pa" or "mon paw" restaurants.
- High-end or fine dining restaurants are expensive and may have Michelin stars.
- Diners serve typical American foods like breakfast items, burgers, and are often found along highways.
Tipping Culture in the US
- Tipping is expected at all sit-down restaurants in the US, even though it is not legally required.
- The traditional tip was 15% of the bill, but many restaurants now expect 18% or more.
- There is a visible effort by restaurants to encourage higher tips, but 15% is still generally acceptable.
Common Restaurant Expressions
- To request a table: "Can we have a table for two, please?"
- To order food: "I'll have the cheeseburger," "I'll take the cheeseburger," or "Can I have the cheeseburger?"
- To make additional requests: "Could I have another glass of water, please?"
- In the US, the waiter brings the check without you asking for it.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Chain restaurant — a restaurant with multiple locations, often part of a franchise.
- Fine dining — high-end, expensive restaurants, sometimes awarded a Michelin star for excellence.
- Diner — a casual American restaurant serving classic dishes like breakfast, burgers, and sandwiches.
- Tip — extra money given to service staff, usually a percentage of the bill, as a reward for good service.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice using the common restaurant expressions in conversation.
- Be aware of tipping expectations when visiting US restaurants.