Ich hätte gerne ...
I would like ... (polite ordering)
Beginner Phrase
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Pronunciation
/ɪç ˈhɛtə ˈɡɛʁnə/
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Cultural Note
This is the most polite and natural way to order in a German restaurant. It uses the subjunctive (Konjunktiv II) of 'haben,' making it softer than 'Ich will' (I want). Other polite alternatives include 'Ich möchte gerne ...' and 'Für mich bitte ...'
📝 Example Sentences
Ich hätte gerne ein Glas Weißwein.
I would like a glass of white wine.
Ich hätte gerne das Tagesgericht.
I would like the daily special.