At the Restaurant في المطعم

Saudi Arabia has a rich food culture, and knowing how to navigate a restaurant in Saudi Arabic transforms the experience. This topic covers 7 essential dining phrases — from ordering food with بدي أطلب (Biddi atlab) to asking for the bill with الحساب لو سمحت (Al-hisaab law samaht). Whether you are eating kabsa in a local restaurant or shawarma at a street stall, these phrases make you a confident diner.

Key Saudi Arabic phrases

Frequently asked questions

What does "الحساب لو سمحت" (al-hisab law samaht) mean?

"الحساب لو سمحت" (Al-hisaab law samaht) means "the bill, please" in Arabic. "الحساب" (al-hisaab) is "the bill / the check" and "لو سمحت" (law samaht) is the polite "please." It is the standard phrase to ask for your check in a Saudi restaurant or cafe.

How do you order food in Saudi Arabic?

To order food in Saudi Arabic, say "بدي أطلب" (Biddi atlab — I want to order) or point to the menu and say "هذا" (Hatha — This one). To customize, add "بدون" (bidun — without): for example "بدون بصل" (bidun basal — without onions).

How do you ask for the bill in Saudi Arabic?

Ask for the bill by saying "الحساب لو سمحت" (Al-hisaab law samaht — The bill please). "لو سمحت" (law samaht) is the polite form of "please" in Saudi Arabic. You can also say just "حساب" (hisaab) as a short version.

How do you say 'very delicious' in Saudi Arabic?

To compliment food in Saudi Arabic, say "لذيذ جداً" (Ladhidh jiddan — Very delicious). You can also express admiration with "ما شاء الله" (Ma sha' Allah). To compliment the cook directly, say "يسلموا إيديكم" (Yislamu idaykum — May your hands be blessed).

What is the national dish of Saudi Arabia?

Kabsa (كبسة) is Saudi Arabia's national dish — fragrant rice cooked with meat (lamb or chicken), tomatoes, spices, and dried fruits. Ask for it by saying "في كبسة؟" (Fi kabsa? — Is there kabsa?). It is typically served on a large communal platter.