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PhrasesAt the RestaurantIl conto, per favore.
A1

Il conto, per favore.

The bill, please.

Pronunciation

CON-to — two syllables, stress on the first. Do not say 'check' — that is American English.

When to use it

Said at the end of the meal when you are ready to pay. You must always ask — waiters will never bring the bill unsolicited.

What it means

'Conto' is the Italian word for 'bill' or 'account'. You can also wave your hand subtly and say just 'Il conto' without 'per favore', but adding it is always more courteous. In Italy, the waiter will never rush you with the bill.

Variations

Possiamo avere il conto?

Can we have the bill?

Slightly softer — 'possiamo' (can we) adds politeness

Ci porta il conto quando può?

Could you bring us the bill when you get a chance?

Very polite — ideal when the waiter is clearly busy

Vorremmo pagare.

We would like to pay.

Alternative that skips the word 'conto' altogether — equally understood

Mini Dialogue

— Scusi, il conto per favore. — Subito! Tutto bene? — Sì, ottimo, grazie. Tutto perfetto. — Pago in contanti o con carta? — Con carta, grazie.

— Excuse me, the bill please. — Right away! Was everything alright? — Yes, excellent, thank you. Everything was perfect. — Cash or card? — Card, thank you.

Cultural Note

In Italy it is considered rude to split the bill in complicated ways. Common practice among friends is 'facciamo alla romana' (we go Dutch) — everyone pays an equal share, not what they individually ordered.