Learning a few key phrases in Lithuanian can greatly enhance your dining and hospitality experience while visiting Lithuania. Embracing the local language can show respect for the culture and might even earn you a smile or a special recommendation from the locals. Below are some helpful Litharian phrases to use in restaurants and hospitality settings, complete with definitions and example sentences.
Sveiki
Meaning “Hello” or “Welcome”, this is a greeting suitable for both arriving at a restaurant or greeting guests.
Sveiki, ar galėčiau rezervuoti stalą?
Prašom
This versatile word can mean “please”, “here you go”, or “you’re welcome” depending on the context.
Prašom, štai jūsų meniu.
Ačiū
Simply, “Thank you”. A word to show gratitude towards someone’s service or hospitality.
Ačiū už nuostabią vakarienę!
Meniu
The “Menu” from which you can choose your meal.
Ar galėčiau gauti meniu?
Užsakymas
Your “Order” or the act of ordering food.
Ar esate pasiruošę padaryti užsakymą?
Stalas
A “Table”. You would want to request this upon arrival if you haven’t booked in advance.
Ar turite laisvą stalą dviejų asmenų?
Rezervacija
Meaning “Reservation”, it’s always best to have one, especially in popular establishments.
Ar turite rezervaciją vakarienei?
Patiekalas
A “Dish”, referring to a specific item of food on the menu.
Šis patiekalas atrodo labai skanus!
Padavėja/Padavėjas
Meaning “Waitress” or “Waiter” to refer to restaurant staff who accept your order and serve your meals.
Atleiskite, padavėja, ar galėčiau užsisakyti dar vieną gėrimą?
Gėrimas
This is a generic term for a “Beverage” or “Drink”.
Kokių gėrimų turite?
Skanaus
Used to say “Enjoy your meal” to someone just before they start eating.
Jūsų patiekalas paruoštas, skanaus!
Sąskaita
The “Bill” or “Check” at the end of your meal.
Ar galėčiau gauti sąskaitą, prašau?
Mokesčiai įtraukti
Used to clarify if “Charges are included”, particularly important when it comes to service fees.
Ar mokesčiai už aptarnavimą įtraukti į sąskaitą?
Ar turite vegetariškų patiekalų?
Asking “Do you have vegetarian dishes?”, which is becoming increasingly important for many diners.
Atleiskite, ar turite vegetariškų patiekalų?
Galėčiau gauti…
Meaning “Could I have/get…”, this phrase is used when you want to order something.
Galėčiau gauti vyno taurę, prašau?
Išparduota
When an item is “Sold out”, unfortunately, you’ll need to make another selection.
Atsiprašome, šiandien mūsų specialusis patiekalas jau išparduotas.
Mastering these phrases can turn a basic interaction into a warm exchange and create a more immersive experience during your travels or dining experiences in Lithuania. Don’t hesitate to practice and use them whenever possible—locals appreciate the effort, and every attempt can be a step towards language proficiency. Bon appétit, or as you would say in Lithuanian, skanaus!