What are you going to do for your end-of-year holiday?
Many people like to have dinner parties with their family and friends. But dinner party culture is sometimes different in English-speaking countries. Sometimes the parties are at people’s houses and the food is home-cooked.
If it’s a pot-luck party, you need to take some food to share with everyone. If it’s not a pot-luck party, it’s still a good idea to take something e.g. extra drinks, snacks, or a present for the host.
Because it’s a dinner party, food is always a good conversation topic. Maybe you can cook some of your country’s food to take. Then you can explain it to everyone e.g. This is [food name], it’s made from… or This is a food we eat at New Years in my country…
It’s also a good idea to ask about the other foods at the party e.g. This is delicious. What’s it called? or This tastes great, what’s it made of?
Below are some more dinner party phrases you can try.
1. Before the dinner (inviting & arriving
Inviting someone
- Would you like to come for dinner?
- We are having a holiday dinner. Please join us.
Checking
- Can you make it? (=Can you come?)
Accepting
- Yes, I’d love to.
- Thank you for inviting me.
Arriving
- Happy holidays!
- Thank you for having me.
- This smells great!
2. At the table (starting the dinner)
- Dinner is ready.
- Please take a seat.
- Okay, let’s eat.
Offering food
- Would you like some chicken?
- Please help yourself. (=take food yourself)
- Would you like more?
Accepting or refusing food
- Yes, please.
- No, thank you.
- Just a little, please.
3. Talking about the food
Saying something is good
- This is delicious.
- It tastes great.
- I really like this.
Asking about food
- What is this dish called?
- What is it made of?
- Is it spicy?
Talking about preferences
- I like sweet food.
- Sorry, I don’t eat meat.
- I am allergic to nuts.
4. After the meal
Saying thanks
- Thank you for the meal.
- It was very nice.
- Everything was wonderful.
Helping
- Can I help you?
- Shall I help clean up?
Leaving
- Thank you again.
- Have a happy holiday.
 |
Extra tip! Sometimes people from different cultures do not eat some foods e.g. meat. Sometimes people also have food allergies. Before a dinner party, it’s a good idea to check by saying Do you have any food allergies or requirements? |
Related links:
