Ordering a steak cooked to perfection is essential for all steak lovers, and it’s equally important to be able to convey your desired level of doneness accurately. If you’re in France or a francophone country and you’re looking to enjoy a steak cooked medium well, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we will explore different ways to express “medium well done” in French, both formally and informally, while touching upon any regional variations when necessary. Let’s dig in!
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Formal Expressions
Formal expressions are generally used in restaurants, fine dining establishments, or when you want to be polite and adhere to proper etiquette.
1. Bien Cuit
One simple and widely understood formal way to say “medium well done” is “bien cuit.” This expression literally means “well cooked,” and it’s commonly used in restaurants across France and other French-speaking countries. Waiting staff are familiar with this term and can easily understand your preferred level of doneness.
“Bonjour, je voudrais un steak, s’il vous plaît. Bien cuit, s’il vous plaît.”
(Hello, I would like a steak, please. Medium well done, please.)
2. À Point
A slightly less formal, but still appropriate expression for ordering your steak medium well done is “à point.” This term is often used in upscale and traditional French restaurants, indicating that you want your steak cooked to a “point,” with a bit of pinkness remaining in the center.
“Pardon, je prendrai un steak à point, s’il vous plaît.”
(Pardon, I’ll have a medium well-done steak, please.)
Informal Expressions
Informal expressions are commonly used in everyday conversations among friends, family, or even at more casual dining establishments.
1. Bien Cuit(e)
The same term used in the formal setting, “bien cuit,” can also be used informally. It is widely understood and acceptable in less formal situations.
“Hé, je veux un steak bien cuit, s’il te plaît.”
(Hey, I want a medium well-done steak, please.)
2. Cuit(e) à Point
Similarly, the expression “cuit(e) à point” can also be used in an informal context. Friends or family members would easily understand your preference with this phrase.
“Je préfère mon steak cuit à point, tu vois?”
(I prefer my steak medium well done, you know?)
Tips and Examples
To ensure your steak is cooked exactly how you like it, here are some additional tips and examples:
1. Specify Your Preference
When ordering, clearly state your desired level of doneness to avoid any confusion. You can use the expressions mentioned above and add a polite phrase like “s’il te plaît” or “s’il vous plaît” (please) to your sentence.
2. Use Hand Gestures
If you’re concerned about being understood, especially in noisy environments, you can accompany your verbal order with a hand gesture. Extend your thumb and index finger to form a circle to represent the thickness of the steak, and use your other hand to demonstrate your desired level of doneness by pointing to the appropriate spot (e.g., closer to the center for medium well done).
3. Understand Local Variations
While the expressions mentioned above are universally understood, it’s worth noting that regional variations might exist. For example, in Belgium, the expression “cuit(e) à point” is commonly used for medium well done. Therefore, if you’re in a specific region, it’s helpful to do some local research or ask the staff for any common regional terms.
4. Communicate with Waitstaff
If you are unsure about the terms or how the steak will be cooked, don’t hesitate to ask the waitstaff for clarification. They are usually knowledgeable about the menu and can guide you accordingly, ensuring your steak is cooked to your satisfaction.
By utilizing the formal and informal expressions provided, along with these helpful tips, you’ll be able to confidently order a delicious medium well-done steak in French. Bon appétit!
