A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "This isn't what i ordered" in Spanish
Politely tell your server if your food or drink order is incorrect at a restaurant.
Esto no es lo que pedí.
ES-toh noh es lo keh peh-DEEneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this phrase when the dish that arrives at your table is not what you selected from the menu. It's also useful if you receive the wrong drink or a side dish you didn't request.
Alternatives
- Esto no es lo que ordené.Slightly more formal, uses a different verb for 'ordered'.
- Me trajeron otra cosa.More indirect, literally 'they brought me another thing'.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'pedir' and 'preguntar'
'Pedir' means 'to order' or 'to ask for', while 'preguntar' means 'to ask' a question.
Incorrect verb conjugation
Make sure to use the past tense 'pedí' (I ordered) not the present tense 'pido'.
A small cultural note
While directness is generally acceptable, a polite tone and a smile go a long way when pointing out an error.
Frequently asked
how to say this is not what I ordered in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'this isn't what I ordered' in Spanish is 'Esto no es lo que pedí.' This is a clear and direct way to communicate the issue.
what if I ordered something else in Spanish?
If you ordered something else, you can say 'Esto no es lo que pedí.' You could also say 'Esto no es lo que ordené,' which is a bit more formal.
how to politely tell a waiter my order is wrong in Spanish?
To politely tell a waiter your order is wrong, use 'Esto no es lo que pedí.' Adding a friendly tone or a smile can help ensure a positive interaction.
