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PhrasesAt the RestaurantPosso vedere la carta dei vini?
A2formal

Posso vedere la carta dei vini?

May I see the wine list?

Pronunciation

CAR-ta — two syllables, stress on first. Dei = DAY-ee, a contraction of 'di + i'.

When to use it

When you want to browse the wine selection. You can ask this at the same time as the food menu.

What it means

'La carta dei vini' is the wine list. 'Posso vedere' (may I see) is a standard polite request. Some restaurants have an extensive carta running to many pages; smaller places may offer just house wine or a short selection.

Variations

Avete una lista dei vini naturali?

Do you have a list of natural wines?

Natural/organic wines are increasingly popular in Italian cities

Cosa avete di bianco locale?

What do you have in terms of local white wine?

Specific and shows wine knowledge

Avete vini al calice?

Do you have wines by the glass?

Good when you want to try a wine without committing to a bottle

Mini Dialogue

— Posso vedere la carta dei vini? — Certo, eccola! Abbiamo anche una selezione di vini naturali in fondo. — Ottimo. Ci dà qualche minuto? — Prego, con calma.

— May I see the wine list? — Of course, here it is! We also have a selection of natural wines at the back. — Excellent. Can you give us a few minutes? — Of course, take your time.

Cultural Note

Italy produces wine in every region — over 500 officially recognised grape varieties. A good Italian wine list reflects the local terroir. Asking to see the carta dei vini and choosing something regional is always appreciated by Italian restaurateurs.