A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I'd like the chicken" in Italian
Politely order chicken at an Italian restaurant with this essential phrase.
Vorrei il pollo.
vor-RAY eel POL-lohneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Use this when you're ready to order your main course at a restaurant. It's a clear and polite way to tell the waiter what you'd like.
Alternatives
- Prendo il pollo.Slightly more direct, like 'I'll take the chicken.'
- Mi dia il pollo.More formal, using the imperative 'give me'.
Ways to get it wrong
Vorrei vs Voglio
'Voglio' means 'I want' and can sound demanding; 'vorrei' (I would like) is much more polite.
Pollo vs Pola
Make sure to say 'pollo' (chicken) and not 'pola', which refers to a hen.
A small cultural note
While chicken is common, many Italians prefer other meats like beef or pork. Don't be surprised if it's not the most prominent option on the menu.
Frequently asked
how to say i want chicken in italian
The most polite way is 'Vorrei il pollo,' meaning 'I would like the chicken.' Avoid 'Voglio il pollo' as it can sound too direct.
italian restaurant ordering phrases
Start with 'Vorrei...' (I would like...) followed by your dish. To get the waiter's attention, you can say 'Scusi' or 'Permesso'.
what is chicken in italian
Chicken is 'pollo' in Italian. Remember to pronounce it with a clear double 'l' sound.
