How to Order Food Without Chinese

Ordering Food Without Speaking Chinese

Don't let the language barrier keep you from China's incredible food scene. Here are proven strategies that work every time.

Method 1: QR Code Ordering

Many restaurants now use table QR codes that open a digital menu on your phone. Some even have English translations. Scan, select, pay — done.

Method 2: Picture Menus

Look for restaurants with photo menus on the wall or in the menu book. Just point at what looks good and hold up fingers for quantity.

Method 3: Show Photos

Save photos of dishes you want to try on your phone. Show the waiter and ask "You mei you?" (有没有？— Do you have this?).

Method 4: Translation Apps

• Google Translate camera — point at Chinese menus for instant translation
• Pleco — the best Chinese dictionary app
• WeChat's built-in scan and translate feature

Useful Food Phrases

• Bu la (不辣) — Not spicy
• Wei la (微辣) — Mildly spicy
• Su shi (素食) — Vegetarian
• Guo min (过敏) — Allergic

Must-Try Ordering Experience

Visit a hotpot restaurant — you pick raw ingredients from a menu with pictures, and cook them yourself at the table. It's interactive, fun, and you always know what you're getting.

Pro Tip

Look for busy restaurants — the longer the line, the better the food. Chinese people take dining seriously.