Ordering food
A very common alternative to 'ordenar'. In some regions, like Spain and Argentina, this is the preferred term.
Used specifically when ordering for takeout or delivery, similar to 'placing an order'.
Excuse me, can we order now?
For me, a chicken soup, please.
I would like to order the 'tacos al pastor'.
We're going to order a pizza for dinner.
The waiter is coming to take the order.
Both 'ordenar' and 'pedir' are extremely common and used interchangeably. You will frequently hear waiters ask, '¿Listos para ordenar?' (Ready to order?).
'Pedir' is the standard verb. 'Ordenar' is rarely used in this context and primarily means 'to organize' or 'to put in order'. A waiter would ask, '¿Qué van a pedir?'
Both 'pedir' and 'ordenar' are widely used and understood, with 'pedir' being slightly more common in casual conversation.
'Pedir' is the dominant verb. Using 'ordenar' would sound foreign, though it would still be understood.
Using 'ordenar' or 'pedir' as a command. Instead of saying 'Ordeno un taco', which is unnatural, it's more polite and common to use phrases like 'Quisiera un taco' (I would like a taco) or 'Me trae un taco, por favor' (Bring me a taco, please).
Using 'demandar'. This is a false friend. 'Demandar' in Spanish means 'to sue' or 'to demand' in a legal or very forceful sense. Never use it to order food.
Saying 'Yo quiero...' instead of 'Quisiera...'. While 'Yo quiero' means 'I want', it can sound a bit blunt or childlike in a restaurant. 'Quisiera' (I would like) is the more polite and standard way to order.
Found this useful? Save it for later.