とりあえず、ビールをお願いします！ — For starters, a beer please! (Cultural · Dining, Casual — to friend, JLPT N5)

Gesture & etiquette

Raise your hand or catch the server's eye with a brief nod before ordering. In a group, one person often orders for the whole table — confirm everyone's preference quickly before the server arrives.

「とりあえずビール」(beer for starters) is a beloved izakaya ritual — nearly everyone starts with beer before food discussion begins. Even non-drinkers use the same 「とりあえず」structure for soft drinks. It signals you are socially ready for the gathering.