How to Order Food at a Restaurant

A complete guide to teaching kids how to confidently order their own food at restaurants.

  1. Before You Go. Look up the restaurant's menu online if possible. Discuss options with your child ahead of time so they feel prepared. Talk about the type of cuisine and what they might want to try. If your child has food allergies or dietary restrictions, plan how you'll communicate these to the server. Bring any necessary allergy cards or medical information.
  2. Reading the Menu. When you arrive, help your child understand how menus are organized. Point out different sections like appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Explain any words they don't understand. Look for kid's menus if available, but don't be afraid to let them order from the regular menu if something appeals to them. Help them identify dishes they might like based on ingredients they enjoy.
  3. Getting the Server's Attention. Teach your child to wait for the server to approach your table rather than calling out. When the server arrives, encourage your child to make eye contact and speak clearly. Show them how to say 'please' and 'thank you' throughout the interaction. If your child is shy, let them know it's okay to start by telling you what they want, and you can relay it to the server.
  4. Placing the Order. Help your child practice saying their order clearly: 'I would like...' or 'May I have...' followed by the menu item. Teach them to specify how they want their food prepared if given options (like how they want their eggs cooked). If they have questions about a dish, show them how to ask politely: 'What comes with the pasta?' Practice speaking loudly enough for the server to hear clearly.
  5. Handling Special Requests. Teach your child how to make simple modifications politely: 'Could I have the dressing on the side?' or 'May I have fries instead of salad?' Help them understand that some changes might cost extra or might not be possible. If your child has allergies, teach them to say clearly: 'I'm allergic to nuts' or similar. Always double-check important dietary restrictions yourself.
  6. During the Meal. Show your child how to get the server's attention if they need something during the meal by making eye contact or raising their hand slightly. Teach them to wait for an appropriate moment when the server isn't obviously busy. Practice polite phrases like 'Excuse me, could I have some more water?' Model good restaurant behavior throughout the meal.