Quick Answer
You can order food in China without speaking Chinese by following a simple rule:
use pictures or QR menus first, point second, translate last.
Trips fail when travelers try to explain preferences instead of selecting items.
The Core Reality of Ordering Food in China
Most restaurants are designed for:
- Fast turnover
- Short interactions
- Visual selection
Conversation is not expected.
Clarity matters more than language.
The Most Reliable Ordering Methods (Ranked)
1. QR Menu Ordering (Best)
- Scan the table QR code
- Use pictures and item lists
- Tap to add items
- Confirm total before paying
This avoids conversation entirely.
2. Picture Menus or Display Photos
- Point to pictures on the wall or menu
- Indicate quantity with fingers
- Nod to confirm
This works in most casual restaurants.
3. Pointing at What Others Are Eating
- Look around
- Point and ask for “this”
- Staff understand this immediately
This is socially normal.
4. Text Translation (Last Resort)
- Use short, concrete phrases
- Show translated text
- Confirm by pointing again
Do not rely on long explanations.
Exact Actions: A Stable Ordering Flow
Step 1: Look for a QR code
- On the table, wall, or counter
- Scan with your phone
- If it opens a menu, use it
If QR ordering exists, use it.
Step 2: Identify items visually
- Photos > names
- Prices > descriptions
- Avoid guessing ingredients
If no pictures exist, choose simple items.
Step 3: Indicate quantity clearly
- Use fingers for numbers
- Point to items again
- Wait for confirmation
Avoid saying numbers verbally.
Step 4: Confirm before paying
- Look at the order summary
- Check prices
- Nod or say “OK”
If unsure, stop and clarify before payment.
Common Food Ordering Pitfalls
- Trying to explain dietary preferences verbally
- Ordering multiple unfamiliar dishes at once
- Assuming staff will ask clarifying questions
- Rushing the confirmation step
Simple orders succeed more often.
Failure Scenarios & Fixes
- Menu has no pictures: order one item first.
- QR menu only in Chinese: use camera translation briefly.
- Staff seems confused: point again and reduce items.
- Order arrives wrong: accept it and adjust next time.
- You feel pressured: step aside and decide calmly.
Food mistakes are low-risk—treat them as learning.
Reality Check
- Many locals order with minimal words.
- Pointing is normal and accepted.
- Perfect accuracy is rare even for locals.
- Eating is flexible, not formal.
You do not need to explain—just select.
What Locals Do Instead
- Locals order quickly.
- Locals point and nod.
- Locals adjust after food arrives.
- Locals rarely explain preferences.
Follow their behavior.
Checklist
- Look for QR menu first.
- Choose items visually.
- Indicate quantity clearly.
- Confirm order before paying.
- Keep orders simple.