What's the best way to order something

Question

How do I order something in a restaurant, ask for an item in a store, a specific service in a doctor's office, etc...

In a restaurant, I usually say in English "Can I have the___ please" In Spanish though, I'm not too sure. "Queria" sounds rude to me but people tell me "puedo tener" or "podria tener" sounds to formal.

Same goes for any store except I usually say "Can I get", "I'd like", "Can I buy", etc... So far I've just been saying "tiene ___".

I'm looking for the Spanish equivalent of these phrases but not a direct translation because that often sounds weird to native speakers. What's the popular way for a native to ask for these things in the settings I've listed?

Thanks alot. Gracias por todo

Answer 1

Me gustaría comer un/ una...

Quiero pedir un/ una...

Deseo ordenar un/ una...

¿Me puede traer un/ una....?

All of them are polite.

"Quiero" is commonly used to buy, to make an apointment etc. "Tiene" is used to ask if they have something. - Agora, Jan 14, 2011

Answer 2

Hi bafalk

I see that you have listed your Spanish level as "intermediate". Surely with questions like these you should have some semblance of an answer. If not, you should modify your profile.

sorry..... i had no idea profile information was so strict. - bafalck, Jan 14, 2011

It'snot a matter of being strict. It certainly helps if we know your level. It's your choice, leave it as it is if you feel happier. - Eddy, Jan 15, 2011

Answer 3

I see that you've gone through the first 2 sets of lessons. I think some of that is covered in 3.3.