Restaurant 6: Writing a review

Restaurant 6: Writing a review

26, July, 2026

Episode 183: The Restaurant. Part 6. Writing a review.

So, we had a pretty disappointing experience. We need to be honest and write a review to inform other people.  Listen in to what we write. Follow our evening from when we first meet up to paying up, and finally writing a review .

Welcome our series on eating out. Follow us during the evening from meeting up to paying the bill. You’ll hear lots of natural conversation.

Notes

Writing a restaurant review

Writing a restaurant review involves more than simply stating whether you liked the food; it requires clear observation, balanced judgment, and useful detail. Begin by briefly introducing the restaurant, including its location, style, and the occasion of your visit. This helps readers understand the context of your experience.

Next, describe the atmosphere. Consider elements such as décor, cleanliness, noise level, and overall comfort. Then move on to the service. Was the staff welcoming, attentive, and knowledgeable? Mention specific interactions if they stood out.

The most important part is the food. Describe what you ordered, focusing on taste, presentation, portion size, and quality of ingredients. Be specific rather than vague—for example, explain whether a dish was too salty, perfectly cooked, or creatively presented. If something was disappointing, explain why in a fair and constructive way.

It is also helpful to comment on value for money. Did the experience justify the price? Finally, conclude with a clear overall impression and whether you would recommend the restaurant to others.

A good review is honest, balanced, and respectful. It should inform readers while also giving them a sense of what dining at the restaurant is really like.

Language Focus

Chris and Sue are heading home after their night out.

Listen out for these words and expressions:

 

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A Few Days in New York

A Few Days in New York

26, July, 2026

Episode 234: A Few Days in New York

In this podcast, Sue chats to Laura halfway through their holiday in New York. Can you guess some of the grammar you’ll hear?

Buying and selling on-line

Welcome back to English-Podcasts In this episode we travel to New York to visit the sites and talk grammar. Listen carefully to the things we love about the Big Apple and some of the things which we couldn’t get used to!

Notes

Have you ever been to New York ? Is it on your list of things to do ? Do you like big cites ? Do you live in the USA? What do you think of tourists to your country?

Listen to this podcast in which Laura, a French-British young women talks to Sue about her holiday, or vacation as they say in American English.

In this podcast Laura talks about these famous sites:

The Empire State Building

The Rockerfeller Center

The Statue of Liberty

The Met Musuem

China Town

Central Park

The Subway

Can you think of any other places that you’d like to visit?

Learn more about the New York Skyline with our quiz, full of fun fact and great vocabulary.

https://english-podcasts.com/the-new-york-skyline-quiz/

Recap & Takeaways

If you are learning English, listen very carefully to how Laura talks about her trip. She is half way through her holiday so notice how she describes actions/events in the past and then actions/events in the recent past and then actions/ events in the future. This podcast is a great way to see all these grammatical structures.

Notice the use of the Simple Past tense to indicate something that Laura did in the past. 

I booked the hotel on line. I bought a Tourist pass before I came 

Sue asks Laura; How did you cope with the jet leg when you arrived?

Notice the use of the Present Perfect tense which Laura uses to describe something she has done recently, within the last few days but without mentioning the exact day.

I have been to see the Statue of Liberty. I‘ve done so many things.  I have taken a cab. I’ve been to wrong places. I have been to Five Guys. I’ve spoken to quite a few people from new York.

Notice the use of the Present Continuous tense to describe a current situation.

Sue asks Laura: How are you getting around ?

People in the street are all carrying a cup of soda or coffee.

Notice the use of the future tenses.

Sue asks Laura: What are you doing after this diner? When are you heading back ?

I’m going to visit Brooklyn Bridge and the Highline later this afternoon.

 

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Addicted to British soaps?

Addicted to British soaps?

26, July, 2026

Episode 252: Why are we addicted to the British soaps?

In this podcast, we have to own up…we are addicted to the British soap operas, and we are far from being alone. Many millions in the UK tune in every week, usually several times a week, to follow the ups and downs in the storylines in the British TV soaps. But why? In this podcast, we try to answer the question.

Welcome back to English-Podcasts In this episode we talk about Brtish TV series which are known as “the soaps”. Find out what they are and why they are so popular with British people.

Notes

British soap operas have been a cornerstone of television for decades, captivating audiences with their compelling storytelling and relatable characters. The most popular ones are called Coronation Street and EastEnders; these shows offer a unique blend of drama, humor, and real-life issues that resonate with viewers.​

One of the reasons we adore British soaps is their ability to mirror everyday life. They tackle real-life issues allowing viewers to see their own experiences reflected on screen. This relatability fosters a deep connection between the audience and the characters, making the highs and lows of the storyline all the more impactful.

Over the years, British soaps have delivered some of the most memorable moments in television history. For instance, the 1986 EastEnders episode where Den Watts served his wife Angie with divorce papers drew a staggering 30.15 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched episodes ever. Similarly, Coronation Street‘s 1987 Christmas episode, featuring Hilda Ogden’s departure, attracted 26.65 million viewers. These episodes have become cultural touchstones, sparking conversations and leaving lasting impressions on the audience.​​

So, watching British soaps has become a cherished tradition for many households, creating a sense of community among viewers. Whether it’s discussing the latest plot twist at work or debating character decisions with friends, these shows bring people together, fostering connections beyond the screen.

 

.

Recap & Takeaways

Focus on these questions;

What is the origin of the word “the soaps”?

When were the British soaps first broadcast?

What are the typical plot twists in these TV shows?

What is the name of the soap opera aired on the radio, and when did it start?

Why do we get attached to them so much?

Are they a good way to learn English?

What is your favourite soap?

 

 

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Just how superstitious are you?

Just how superstitious are you?

26, July, 2026

Episode 231: Very superstitious! Should you let superstitions  be part of your life?

In this podcast, we dive into the “for” and the “against” of living your life in tune with superstitions.

Welcome back to English-Podcasts In this episode we talk about superstitions. The fascinating thing about superstitions is that we often believe in them despite knowing, on some level, that they can’t be true. Why do we do this?

Notes

For many people, engaging with superstitious behaviours provides a sense of control and reduces anxiety – which is why levels of superstition increase at times of stress and angst. This is particularly the case during times of economic crisis and social uncertainty – notably wars and conflicts. Indeed, Researchers have observed how in Germany between 1918 and 1940 measures of economic threat correlated directly with measures of superstition.

Superstitious beliefs have been shown to help promote a positive mental attitude. Although they can lead to irrational decisions, such as trusting in the merits of good luck and destiny rather than sound decision making.

Superstition is also highly prevalent within sport – especially in highly competitive situations. Four out of five professional athletes report engaging with at least one superstitious behaviour prior to performance. Within sport, superstitions have been shown to reduce tension and provide a sense of control over unpredictable, chance factors.

Listen to the podcast to find out more.

Recap & Takeaways

ACTIVE PREPARATION

Before listening take a moment to think of at least 5 superstitions you have in your country.

Now take the time to think why people “believe” in these actions and behaviour.

LISTENING

You’ll hear Chris give reasons why people adhere to superstitions and why Sue says they are all nonesense.

AFTER LISTENING

Write 10 questions asking WHY? WHAT ? WHEN? HOW MANY etc and then write your answers.

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Making the perfect cup of coffee

Making the perfect cup of coffee

26, July, 2026

Episode 220: How to make the perfect cup of coffee

In this podcast, we talk about coffee, its origins, different types of coffee and how to make the perfect cup of espresso.

Welcome back to English-Podcasts In this episode we talk about one of the most popular drinks on the planet – coffee and how to make the perfect cup of espresso. Listen to the podcast and stay around for the comprehension and knowledge check at the end.

Notes

Join us as we explore the essential elements of crafting the perfect espresso shot. In this episode, we’ll cover: – **The Basics of Espresso**: Learn what sets espresso apart from other coffee beverages and why it’s the foundation of many coffee drinks. – **Choosing the Right Beans**: Discover how to select the best coffee beans for espresso, focusing on freshness, roast level, and origin. – **Grinding Techniques**: Understand the importance of grind size and consistency, and get tips on using a quality grinder. – **Tamping Tips**: Learn how to tamp your coffee grounds evenly to ensure a balanced extraction. – **The Perfect Extraction**: Find out how to achieve the perfect shot, including recognizing signs of under-extraction and over-extraction. – **Common Mistakes to Avoid**: Identify and fix common espresso-making errors to improve your results. – **Advanced Techniques**

For the more adventurous, we’ll delve into advanced tips and tricks to refine your espresso-making skills.

Recap & Takeaways

Grab your favorite coffee beans, fire up your espresso machine, and join us on this caffeinated journey.

By the end of this episode, you’ll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to brew the perfect cup of espresso right at home.

We’ll also talk about some of the weirdest and most expensive coffees in the world!

Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more coffee tutorials, tips, and tricks.

Hit the bell icon to get notified whenever we upload a new episode.

Happy brewing! ☕️

 

All about coffee

1 / 20

Let's start with a quick question about your coffee preferences..... which coffee is your "go to" choice?

There is no right or wrong answer, so just move on to the next question when you're ready.

2 / 20

Where was coffee said to have been "invented"?

3 / 20

How would you define the word "brew" as mentioned in the podcast?

4 / 20

Chris mentions the word "creama" many times in the podcast. What is it exactly?

5 / 20

How is espresso different from other coffee brewing methods?

6 / 20

What is the primary reason behind coffee’s stimulating effects?

7 / 20

What are the two most commonly grown types of coffee beans?

8 / 20

Which country is the biggest producer of coffee?

9 / 20

How would you define the word "grind" as mentioned in the podcast?

10 / 20

Where does the word espresso come from?

11 / 20

As mentioned in the podcast, coffee is the 2nd most traded product in the world. So worldwide, about how many ships are being used to transport coffee every day?

12 / 20

While wine is said to have about 400 distinct flavor characteristics, how many does coffee exhibit?

13 / 20

What day in Japan is known as the official Coffee Day?

14 / 20

Which European country consumes the most coffee?

15 / 20

How long will a coffee plant typically produce coffee if it is well cared for?

16 / 20

How long does it take for a coffee tree to reach maturity

17 / 20

According to Chris which factors go together to produce a really tasty cup of coffee?

18 / 20

How did the term cappuccino originate?

19 / 20

About how many espresso beans are required to make one espresso?

20 / 20

 

And finally, which coffee is said to be the most expensive coffee in the world? Chris talks enthusiastically about it in the podcast.

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Which phone apps do you use?

Which phone apps do you use?

26, July, 2026

Episode 217: Which phone Apps do you use?

In this podcast, we take a look at our phones and discuss the apps we use and why. Do you use the same ones ? We use everyday vocabulary which you build up for vocabularly bank.

Join us as we delve into the pros and cons of phone apps. Are we too dependant on them? Are we becoming too lazy? Or are we opening up our world? Let us know what you think.

Notes

Phone apps have profoundly transformed various aspects of our lives, redefining how we interact with the world and manage our daily activities. Phone apps have revolutionized communication by making it easier and faster to connect with others. Apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Zoom have made instant messaging and video calls accessible to everyone, breaking down geographical barriers and enabling real-time interaction.

The convenience of mobile apps has streamlined many aspects of daily life. Banking apps allow users to perform transactions, pay bills, and manage finances without visiting a bank. Shopping apps enable users to browse, compare, and purchase products from anywhere, often with just a few taps.

Navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze provide real-time directions, traffic updates, and information on public transportation, making travel more efficient and stress-free.

Recap & Takeaways

Phone apps have integrated deeply into our lives, making tasks simpler, improving access to services, enhancing productivity, and providing entertainment and educational resources. This transformation has made daily activities more efficient, made social interactions quicker and easier….. in short totally changed the way we live.

 

 As part of your language learning it’s important to have the right vocabulary at your fingertips and be able to chat with confidence about these aspects of your daily life.

So tune into this podcast to pick up the vocabulary you need, and enjoy the conversation too.

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