Meaning
Wishing someone a good meal.
Cultural Background
It is common to say this to everyone at the table, even strangers in a restaurant. Usage is identical to the Netherlands, often accompanied by a nod. Dutch people often use the French 'Bon appétit' as well, though 'Smakelijk eten' is preferred.
Keep it simple
If you forget the full phrase, just say 'Smakelijk!'
Eye contact
Make eye contact when you say it to be extra polite.
Meaning
Wishing someone a good meal.
Keep it simple
If you forget the full phrase, just say 'Smakelijk!'
Eye contact
Make eye contact when you say it to be extra polite.
Test Yourself
When do you say 'Smakelijk eten'?
Before or after the meal?
It is a wish for the meal to come.
Complete the phrase.
Smakelijk ____!
The phrase is 'Smakelijk eten'.
Match the language to the meal wish.
Dutch: ?
This is the Dutch version.
What do you say when your friend starts eating?
Friend: *starts eating* You: ?
It's the polite thing to say.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesBefore or after the meal?
It is a wish for the meal to come.
Smakelijk ____!
The phrase is 'Smakelijk eten'.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
This is the Dutch version.
Friend: *starts eating* You: ?
It's the polite thing to say.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, it is very polite.
It is neutral and fits everywhere.
People will still understand you.
No, a smile is enough.
Yes, for any meal.
Yes, don't use it for drinks.
Related Phrases
Eet smakelijk
synonymEat tastily
Het was heerlijk
contrastIt was delicious
Gezellig
builds onCozy/fun
