Making a Reservation
Useful Expressions
- I would like to make a reservation.
- I would like to book a table for Friday evening.
- I'd like to make a reservation for Friday evening.
- Are there any tables available for Friday night?
- I will need the reservation for Friday night.
- I would prefer 8 pm.
- There will be seven of us.
- Could we get a table in the non-smoking area/by the window/in a quiet area?
Dialogue Practice
Read the dialogue aloud with your teacher.
Mr. Abbott is calling Sunrise Restaurant to make a dinner reservation. | |
 Receptionist | Hello, Sunrise Restaurant. How may I help you? |
 Jonathan Abbott | Hello, I would like to make a dinner reservation for Friday. |
 Receptionist | Certainly, sir. How many people will you need the reservation for? |
 Jonathan Abbott | There will be 6 of us. |
 Receptionist | Okay, no problem. What time would suit you? |
 Jonathan Abbott | Ideally, I’d like it to be at 8 pm. |
 Receptionist | 6 people, 8 pm. That won't be a problem. Would you prefer the smoking or non-smoking area? |
 Jonathan Abbott | Non-smoking, please. And could we get a table in a quiet area of the restaurant? |
 Receptionist | Certainly. Can I have your name, please? |
 Jonathan Abbott | Jonathan Abbott. |
 Receptionist | Mr. Abbott, you have a table for 6 reserved for this Friday at 8 pm. See you then. |
 Jonathan Abbott | Thank you very much! I look forward to it. |
Check your understanding:
1.
What kind of reservation did Mr. Abbott make?
2.
How many guests will join Mr. Abbott for dinner?
3.
What time did he make the reservation for?
Role Play
Role-play the following situation with your teacher.
Situation
You are planning to hold a company party at the restaurant of Hotel L’Acole. Call the hotel and make a reservation. The party will be held at 6 pm on this coming Friday. The number of participants will be 20. Your teacher will be the hotel receptionist.
Discussion
1.
Why do you think it is important to make reservations?
2.
Why do you think some restaurants refuse to take reservations?
3.
What things do you consider when choosing a restaurant?
4.
Have you ever had to organize a large business event?
