A café or restaurant you like
IELTS Speaking Part 2 · cue card
Describe a café or restaurant you like to visit.
You should say:
- where it is
- what it is like
- what you usually order
- and explain why you like it
You have one minute to prepare and should speak for one to two minutes.
Free account required for the live AI partner.
Band 7+ sample answer
About 236 words, roughly two minutes spoken. Use it for ideas and language, not to memorise: examiners notice rehearsed answers.
The café I visit most is a small place called Tong, which is on a side street in Dhanmondi, about twenty minutes from my home. It isn't a famous chain; it's run by two brothers who used to work as baristas in Malaysia before coming back to open their own business.
It's quite cosy, with only about eight tables, exposed brick walls and a long shelf of second-hand books that customers are allowed to borrow. There's usually soft acoustic music, and the lighting is warm and a bit dim, which makes it feel relaxed rather than like a busy coffee shop.
I almost always order the same thing: a cold coffee with a hint of cardamom, which is their own invention, and a slice of lemon cake. Sometimes, if I'm hungry, I'll get their chicken sandwich, which is simple but very fresh.
I like it for a few reasons. First, the staff remember regular customers; they actually start making my drink when I walk in, which makes me feel welcome. Second, it's a good place to study. They don't mind if you stay for two or three hours, and the Wi-Fi is reliable. And finally, I like supporting a local business rather than an international brand. When I see that the owners are working hard and doing well, it feels good to know I'm part of that, even if it's just one coffee at a time.
Useful vocabulary
- cosy
- small, warm and comfortable
- exposed brick walls
- walls with bricks visible, not plastered
- a hint of
- a small amount of a flavour
- regular customers
- people who come often
- reliable
- works well consistently
- supporting a local business
- spending money at small independent shops
Part 3 follow-up questions
- Why are cafés so popular with young people?
- Is eating out a waste of money?
- Will local cafés survive competition from big chains?
- How has food delivery changed eating habits?
- Do people in your country eat out more than before?
Tip: in Part 3, give an opinion, a reason and an example, and consider another point of view. Aim for 3–5 sentences per answer.
How to practise this card
- Set a one-minute timer and write keywords for each bullet, not full sentences.
- Speak for two minutes and record yourself on your phone.
- Listen back: did you cover every bullet and the "explain" part? Note one phrase from the vocabulary list to use next time.
- Answer two Part 3 questions out loud, then try the card again with the AI Speaking Partner.