Words (Core Vocabulary)
- reservation / booking / waitlist / walk-in
- host/hostess / server / table for [number] / patio / booth
- menu / daily specials / set menu / kids’ menu
- allergies / dietary restrictions / substitution / modification
- starter / main / side / dessert
- to-go / takeout / pickup / curbside pickup
- estimate / quoted wait / seating time
- high-top / counter seat
- last call / kitchen closing
Phrases (Call, arrive, order, adjust)
Booking & arrival
- Hi, I’d like to make a reservation for four this Friday at 7.
- Do you take walk-ins, or should we join the waitlist online?
- Could we request a patio table if available?
Ordering & clarifying
- What are the specials tonight?
- Could I substitute the fries for a salad?
- I have a nut allergy—is the kitchen able to avoid cross-contact?
Takeout
- I’d like to place a pickup order for 6:30—what’s the ETA?
- Could you pack sauces separately, please?
Changes
- Our plans changed— could we move our reservation to 7:30?
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- At the door: Hi, table for two—is there a long wait or can we join the list?
- Ordering: I’ll get the grilled salmon; could I swap the rice for vegetables?
- Takeout call: Pickup for Mahdie at 6:45—please keep the dressing on the side.
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
Reservations & seating
- make a reservation
- join a waitlist
- request a patio/booth
- confirm the seating time
Ordering & accomodations
- ask about the specials
- request a substitution
- note an allergy
- avoid cross-contact
Takeout
- place a pickup order
- quote an ETA
- pack sauces separately
- double-bag soups/stews
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Popular places fill up on weekends—reserve early.
- Staff appreciate clear allergy info and polite requests for substitutions.
- Patio seating is in high demand during warm months; waits are common.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Reservation: “I’d like to book a table for four at 7 p.m. Friday—patio if possible.”
- Substitute: “Could I substitute the fries for a side salad, no croutons?”
- Takeout: “Pickup at 6:30—please pack sauces separately and label the veggie dish.”