A thali is more than just a meal - it’s an experience. A round platter packed with small bowls of curries, dals, chutneys, breads, and rice, it’s the ultimate way to sample a variety of flavours in one sitting. But if you don’t know the right words, you might end up with a plate full of surprises (and not all of them good). Here’s how to order the perfect thali in Hindi, whether you’re in Mumbai or Manchester.
Basic Phrases to Get Started
- Ek thali dena, please. – One thali, please. (The universal starting point.)
- Yeh kya hai? – What is this? (Point at anything unfamiliar.)
- Thoda aur, please. – A little more, please. (For when you can’t get enough of that dal.)
Customising Your Thali
Thalis often come with fixed items, but many places let you tweak them. Here’s how to ask for adjustments:
- Mirch kam karo. – Make it less spicy. (A lifesaver if you’re not used to heat.)
- Bina pyaaz ka. – Without onions. (For Jain or no-onion preferences.)
- Ek roti aur, please. – One more roti, please. (Because one is never enough.)
Key Vocabulary for Thali Components
Dal
/d̪ɑːl/“Lentil stew”
Sabzi
/səb.ziː/“Vegetable curry”
Raita
/rɑːɪ.t̪ɑː/“Yoghurt side”
Handling the Bill
Thalis are often refillable, but not always. Clarify before you ask for seconds:
- Kya doosra helping milega? – Can I get a second helping? (Some places charge extra.)
- Bill dena, please. – The bill, please. (Time to settle up.)
Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to learn? Order a thali and dive in. If you’re nervous, start with basic Hindi introductions to build confidence. And if you mess up? Just smile and point - food is a universal language.
