Spanish Phrase
La cuenta, porfa.
Meaning
A casual way to ask the server for the bill in a restaurant. The phrase combines the definite article with the noun “cuenta” and the informal “porfa” to keep the tone friendly and relaxed.
When to use
Use this phrase in informal dining situations—when you’re with friends, family, or in a relaxed café. Avoid it in formal settings or when speaking to someone you don’t know well; opt for the full “por favor” instead.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Lacuenta,porfa.
Definite article (La)
La is the feminine singular definite article, used here because cuenta is a feminine noun.
Noun (cuenta)
Cuenta means “bill” or “check” in a restaurant context; it is a regular -a ending feminine noun.
Colloquial request (porfa)
Porfa is an informal contraction of por favor, equivalent to “please” in casual speech.
Punctuation
The comma creates a short pause, making the request sound polite yet relaxed.
🗨In Conversation
La cuenta, porfa.
The check, please.
Claro, en un momento.
Sure, one moment.
✕Common Mistakes
El cuenta, porfa.
Cuenta is feminine; the correct article is la.
La cuenta, porfa.
Using “porfa” in a formal restaurant or with strangers can seem disrespectful; use “por favor”.
La cuenta porfa.
Missing the comma makes the phrase sound rushed; the pause adds politeness.
↔Alternatives
La cuenta, por favor.
The check, please.
¿Me trae la cuenta, por favor?
Could you bring me the check, please?
¿Podría traerme la cuenta?
Could you bring me the check?
¿Nos trae la cuenta?
Could you bring us the check?
Cultural Tip
In most Spanish‑speaking countries, asking for the bill with “la cuenta, por favor” is perfectly normal. The shortened “porfa” is common among peers and in casual environments, but it can sound too familiar in a business dinner or with older adults. Also, it’s polite to make eye contact and say thank you (gracias) after receiving the bill.