Describe An Occasion When You Heard Someone Complaining About Something In A Restaurant: IELTS Speaking Cue Card
You should say
- When and where it happened?
- What did he/she complain about?
- What was the result?
- How did you feel about the experience?

4 unique answers with expert feedback
Band 6-7
00:00
/
00:00
Follow up questions
Follow up questions
What do you think about the importance of customer service in restaurants?
Have you ever had a similar experience in a restaurant?
How do you think restaurants can improve their service?
Band 6-7
00:00
/
00:00
Follow up questions
Follow up questions
What do you think are the main reasons for complaints in restaurants?
How should restaurant staff handle customer complaints?
Have you ever complained about food or service in a restaurant? What happened?
Band 6-7
00:00
/
00:00
Follow up questions
Follow up questions
How do you think restaurants should handle customer complaints?
Have you ever complained about food in a restaurant? What happened?
Why do you think people are hesitant to complain in restaurants?
Practice other cue cards
Band 5-6
00:00
/
00:00
Follow up questions
Follow up questions
How do you think restaurants can improve their service during busy times?
Have you ever complained about a service in a restaurant? What happened?
What do you think is the best way to handle complaints in a restaurant?
Cue 1:When and where it happened?
- Begin by setting the scene, mentioning the restaurant's name and location.
- Include the time of day and the occasion for being at the restaurant.
Example
It was a Saturday evening, and I was dining at a popular Indian restaurant in my city called 'Spice Junction'. I was there with my family to celebrate my sister's birthday.
Cue 2:What did he/she complain about?
- Describe the specific complaint made by the person, focusing on details.
- Mention how the complaint was expressed, whether it was loud, polite, or frustrated.
Example
While we were enjoying our meal, I noticed a couple at the next table complaining about their food. The woman was particularly upset because her biryani was cold and lacked flavor. She raised her voice slightly, making it clear she was not satisfied.
Cue 3:What was the result?
- Explain how the restaurant staff responded to the complaint.
- Mention any actions taken to resolve the issue, such as offering a replacement or an apology.
Example
The waiter quickly approached their table after hearing the complaint. He apologized sincerely and offered to replace the dish with a freshly made one. The couple seemed to appreciate the prompt response and agreed to try a different dish.
Cue 4:How did you feel about the experience?
- Share your personal feelings about witnessing the complaint.
- Reflect on how the restaurant handled the situation and its impact on your dining experience.
Example
I felt a bit uncomfortable at first, as I didn’t want the atmosphere to be ruined. However, I was impressed by how the restaurant staff handled the situation. Their quick response made me feel confident about the service, and it didn’t affect our celebration.
Conclusion
Example
Overall, witnessing that complaint taught me the importance of good customer service. It showed me that even when things go wrong, how a restaurant responds can make a significant difference in a customer's experience.
Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.
Tips to answer this Cue Card
1: Vague Descriptions
Avoid being too vague in your answers. Providing unclear details can make your response less engaging and informative.
Tip
Use specific examples and descriptive language to clearly convey the situation, including the setting and the nature of the complaint.
2: Ignoring Emotional Impact
Neglecting to express your feelings about the experience can make your response less personal and relatable.
Tip
Share your emotions regarding the complaint and how it affected your perception of the restaurant experience.
Lack of Structure
A disorganized response can confuse the listener and weaken your overall message. Structure is key.
Tip
Follow a clear structure: start with when and where, then describe the complaint, the result, and finally your feelings about it.

IELTS Cue Cards asked last week
Reported by Leap students who gave IELTS
All Answers
Here are all the answers by real-users practicing speaking for IELTS Cue Cards on our IELTS Prep App.
Band 6-7
Band 6-7
Band 6-7
Band 5-6

Explore
419 Cue Cards

Personal Experience
114 Cue Cards

Describing People
58 Cue Cards
Travel
40 Cue Cards

Personal Development
40 Cue Cards

Hobbies/Interests
39 Cue Cards

Environment/Culture
35 Cue Cards

Tech/Media
22 Cue Cards

Social Issues
17 Cue Cards

Education/Work
15 Cue Cards

Describe An Object
15 Cue Cards

Business/Shopping
13 Cue Cards
Food/Cooking
6 Cue Cards

Fashion
5 Cue Cards
Get the IELTS Prep App
4.2
1M+ Installs


Get the IELTS Prep App
4.2
1M+ Installs
Get the app link on your phone
Or download app from
