Spanish Phrase
Poco hecho, por favor.
Meaning
This phrase is the standard way to order meat, typically steak, cooked rare. It literally translates to 'little done,' indicating that the meat should be seared on the outside but remain red or pink in the middle.
When to use
Use this phrase in a restaurant or at a barbecue when a waiter or host asks how you would like your meat prepared. It is specifically used for the level of doneness of beef.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Pocohecho,porfavor.
Poco
An adverb meaning 'little' or 'not much,' used here to modify the state of the meat.
Hecho
The past participle of 'hacer' (to do/make), acting as an adjective meaning 'cooked' or 'done' in a culinary context.
🗨In Conversation
¿Cómo desea el caballero su entrecot?
How would the gentleman like his ribeye?
Poco hecho, por favor.
Rare, please.
✕Common Mistakes
Raro, por favor.
In Spanish, 'raro' means 'strange' or 'unusual'; it is never used to describe the doneness of meat.
Pequeño hecho, por favor.
'Pequeño' refers to physical size, whereas 'poco' is used here to mean 'a small amount of cooking.'
↔Alternatives
Al punto
Medium-rare / Medium
Muy hecho
Well done
Punto menos
Medium-rare (slightly less than medium)
Cultural Tip
In Spain and Argentina, meat quality is a point of national pride. Ordering 'poco hecho' is common for high-quality cuts like 'chuletón' to preserve the flavor and texture, though 'al punto' remains the most popular choice for general dining.