Asking in a Restaurant/Cafe
A patron is dining or having coffee and needs to use the restroom. They ask a waiter/waitress or barista for the location.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
restroom
A polite word for bathroom or toilet, commonly used in American English in public places like restaurants.
counter
A long table or surface in a restaurant or cafe where customers order or pay, like the bar area.
past
Means beyond or after something in location, like going further than a point; here, it means 'beyond the counter'.
left
The direction on your left side when facing forward; used to give directions clearly.
sign
A notice or symbol that shows information, like a restroom sign with a picture of a person.
certainly
A polite way to say 'yes' or 'of course' when agreeing to help someone.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, could you tell me where the restroom is?
This is a polite way to ask for directions or information. 'Excuse me' gets attention, and 'could you tell me' is a polite request using 'could' for possibility. Useful when interrupting someone nicely in public.
Certainly! The restroom is just past the counter, to your left. You'll see a sign.
A helpful response giving directions. 'Certainly' means 'yes, happily.' 'Just past' means a short distance beyond, and 'to your left' specifies direction. 'You'll see' predicts what the listener will notice. Great for service workers to use clearly.
Past the counter and to the left, got it. Thank you!
This repeats directions to confirm understanding. 'Got it' is informal for 'I understand.' 'Thank you' shows gratitude. Useful for learners to repeat back and thank, making conversations smoother.
You're welcome! Let me know if you need anything else.
A standard polite reply to 'thank you.' 'You're welcome' means 'no problem.' 'Let me know' invites more questions using the imperative 'let' for permission. Essential in customer service to offer more help.