German · A1 · Vocabulary · 3–5 min
Eight café decisions: ordering, checking details, and paying. Get an explanation for each answer.
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I would like a coffee, please.
‘Ich hätte gern’ is a polite way to order. The phrase works with other drinks and dishes too.
Say thisIch hätte gern einen Kaffee, bitte.
MeaningI would like a coffee, please.
When to use itStart the conversation naturally.
Say thisWas kostet das?
MeaningHow much does that cost?
When to use itAdd the detail the other person needs.
Say thisDie Rechnung, bitte.
MeaningThe bill, please.
When to use itFinish with a clear, polite line.
| Say this | Meaning | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Ich hätte gern einen Kaffee, bitte. | I would like a coffee, please. | Start the conversation naturally. |
| Was kostet das? | How much does that cost? | Add the detail the other person needs. |
| Die Rechnung, bitte. | The bill, please. | Finish with a clear, polite line. |
Order your drink, ask the price, and request the bill using short polite sentences.
Ich hätte gern einen Kaffee, bitte.
I would like a coffee, please.
Start the conversation naturally.
Was kostet das?
How much does that cost?
Add the detail the other person needs.
Die Rechnung, bitte.
The bill, please.
Finish with a clear, polite line.