Spanish Phrase
¿Qué vas a tomar?
Meaning
This versatile Spanish phrase literally translates to "What are you going to take?" However, its most common usage is to inquire about someone's choice of food or drink, especially when ordering in a restaurant or bar. It can also be used more broadly to ask about someone's immediate plans or decisions.
When to use
You'll frequently hear "¿Qué vas a tomar?" in service settings like cafes, restaurants, or bars when a waiter or bartender asks for your order. It's also common in informal social situations among friends or family to ask what someone wants to eat or drink. Beyond consumption, it can subtly inquire about a decision or action someone is about to undertake.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Quévasatomar?
¿Qué
This is an interrogative pronoun meaning "what." It always carries an accent mark when used in a direct or indirect question.
Vas a
This is part of the "ir a + infinitive" construction, which expresses the immediate future, similar to "going to do something" in English. "Vas" is the informal 'tú' form of the verb 'ir' (to go).
Tomar
The infinitive verb "to take," "to drink," or "to have." Its broad range of meanings makes it incredibly useful in various contexts, especially for ordering food and beverages.
🗨In Conversation
Hola, ¿qué vas a tomar?
Hi, what are you going to have?
Yo quiero un café con leche, por favor.
I'd like a coffee with milk, please.
✕Common Mistakes
¿Qué vas a beber?
While "beber" means "to drink," "tomar" is much more common and natural for ordering drinks (and often food) in Spanish-speaking countries.
¿Qué quieres tomar?
"Querer" (to want) can sound less polite or direct than "ir a tomar" (going to have) in a service context, which implies a more immediate and polite inquiry about a choice.
↔Alternatives
¿Qué quieres pedir?
What do you want to order?
¿Qué te apetece?
What do you fancy?
¿Qué vas a querer?
What are you going to want?
Cultural Tip
The verb "tomar" is remarkably versatile in Spanish, encompassing meanings like "to take," "to drink," "to eat" (a light meal), "to catch" (a bus), or "to make" (a decision). In many Spanish-speaking cultures, "tomar" is the preferred and most natural verb for ordering both drinks and often food, making it a key word to master for everyday interactions.