Finding the right words to express care and appreciation goes a long way in making conversations warm and memorable. When someone shares food, whether they cooked it or are simply enjoying a meal, saying “That looks delicious” is kind—but sometimes, you want a phrase that feels more personal, unique, and heartfelt.
This list of 30 alternatives will help you compliment food in a way that truly connects with the moment, showing genuine appreciation and warmth.
What Does “That Looks Delicious” Mean?
The phrase “That looks delicious” is a polite and kind way to say that a dish appears appetizing, appealing, or tasty. It doesn’t confirm the flavor, but it expresses enthusiasm and positivity about the appearance of the food.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “That Looks Delicious”?
Yes—“That looks delicious” is both professional and polite. It can be used in personal settings (like with family and friends) and even in professional contexts (like at a business lunch, cooking show, or culinary event). However, depending on the setting, you might choose a more formal or casual synonym from the list below.
Pros or Cons of Saying “That Looks Delicious”
Pros:
- Warm and universally understood.
- Encourages and compliments the cook.
- Polite in both casual and formal settings.
Cons:
- Overused and can feel generic.
- May lack variety if repeated often.
- Doesn’t always capture deeper feelings like admiration or excitement.
Synonyms For ‘That Looks Delicious’
- Mouthwatering
- Appetizing
- Tasty
- Divine
- Scrumptious
- Heavenly
- Delightful
- Exquisite
- Finger-licking good
- Incredible
- Flavorful
- Irresistible
- Savory
- Yummy
- Delectable
- Tempting
- Amazing
- Beautifully prepared
- Fresh-looking
- Perfectly cooked
- Succulent
- Enticing
- Well-presented
- Juicy
- Satisfying
- Incredible-looking
- Wholesome
- Temptation on a plate
- Wonderful
- Too good to resist
1. That looks mouthwatering
Definition: Something so appealing it makes you eager to taste it.
Detailed Explanation: Suggests the food is visually irresistible.
Scenario Example: “Wow, that steak looks mouthwatering—I can almost taste it already.”
Best Use: Great for casual dining or foodie conversations.
Tone: Excited, enthusiastic.
Additional Notes: Works well in social media captions.
2. That looks appetizing
Definition: Food that stimulates your appetite.
Detailed Explanation: Slightly more formal than “delicious.”
Scenario Example: “The salad looks so fresh and appetizing.”
Best Use: Professional or polite settings.
Tone: Warm, respectful.
Additional Notes: A good neutral compliment.
3. That looks tasty
Definition: Suggests flavor will be pleasant.
Detailed Explanation: A simple, friendly compliment.
Scenario Example: “That pizza looks really tasty.”
Best Use: Everyday conversations.
Tone: Casual, approachable.
Additional Notes: Short and sweet.
4. That looks divine
Definition: Food so good it feels heavenly.
Detailed Explanation: Adds dramatic admiration.
Scenario Example: “That chocolate cake looks divine.”
Best Use: Romantic dinners, special occasions.
Tone: Romantic, enthusiastic.
Additional Notes: Adds flair and charm.
5. That looks scrumptious
Definition: Exceptionally tasty and enjoyable.
Detailed Explanation: A fun and playful way to compliment food.
Scenario Example: “Those cookies look absolutely scrumptious.”
Best Use: Family gatherings, with kids, informal moments.
Tone: Playful, light-hearted.
Additional Notes: Sounds cheerful and cozy.
6. That looks heavenly
Definition: Food that feels divine or beyond ordinary.
Detailed Explanation: Similar to “divine” but softer.
Scenario Example: “This cheesecake looks heavenly.”
Best Use: Special desserts, indulgent foods.
Tone: Elegant, admiring.
Additional Notes: Adds emotional depth.
7. That looks delightful
Definition: Food that brings joy and pleasure.
Detailed Explanation: Suggests happiness at the sight of it.
Scenario Example: “Your homemade pie looks delightful.”
Best Use: Warm family or social compliments.
Tone: Cheerful, appreciative.
Additional Notes: Gentle, uplifting.
8. That looks exquisite
Definition: Exceptionally beautiful and fine.
Detailed Explanation: Compliments both presentation and quality.
Scenario Example: “This sushi platter looks exquisite.”
Best Use: Formal events, fine dining.
Tone: Elegant, respectful.
Additional Notes: Best for high-quality presentation.
9. That looks finger-licking good
Definition: Food so good you want to savor every last bit.
Detailed Explanation: Casual, fun way to express excitement.
Scenario Example: “That barbecue looks finger-licking good.”
Best Use: Casual, outdoor meals.
Tone: Playful, enthusiastic.
Additional Notes: Informal but lively.
10. That looks incredible
Definition: Beyond the ordinary; amazing.
Detailed Explanation: Expresses surprise and admiration.
Scenario Example: “That spread looks incredible—like something out of a magazine.”
Best Use: Impressive displays, parties.
Tone: Energetic, appreciative.
Additional Notes: Very versatile phrase.
11. That looks flavorful
Definition: Packed with rich or distinct tastes.
Detailed Explanation: Suggests the dish is full of variety and well-seasoned.
Scenario Example: “That curry looks so flavorful—I can almost smell the spices.”
Best Use: Great for seasoned dishes or spiced meals.
Tone: Appreciative, warm.
Additional Notes: Works well when talking about cultural foods.
12. That looks irresistible
Definition: Impossible to resist or ignore.
Detailed Explanation: Strong admiration, implying you must try it.
Scenario Example: “Those cupcakes look irresistible.”
Best Use: Desserts, sweets, treats.
Tone: Enthusiastic, indulgent.
Additional Notes: Adds an emotional pull.
13. That looks savory
Definition: Rich, salty, or umami flavor profile.
Detailed Explanation: Suggests depth and satisfaction in taste.
Scenario Example: “That roasted chicken looks savory.”
Best Use: Main dishes, hearty meals.
Tone: Descriptive, appreciative.
Additional Notes: Best for non-sweet foods.
14. That looks yummy
Definition: Informal word for delicious.
Detailed Explanation: Fun, light, and easygoing.
Scenario Example: “That ice cream looks yummy!”
Best Use: Casual chats, family settings.
Tone: Cheerful, playful.
Additional Notes: Especially good with kids.
15. That looks delectable
Definition: Extremely delicious and refined.
Detailed Explanation: A polished compliment, slightly formal.
Scenario Example: “This dish looks absolutely delectable.”
Best Use: Professional dinners, fine dining.
Tone: Elegant, respectful.
Additional Notes: Ideal for writing reviews.
16. That looks tempting
Definition: So good it tempts you to try.
Detailed Explanation: Suggests attraction and craving.
Scenario Example: “That cheesecake looks tempting.”
Best Use: Social media captions, desserts.
Tone: Playful, enticing.
Additional Notes: Adds a flirty edge.
17. That looks amazing
Definition: Extraordinary, impressive.
Detailed Explanation: Expresses big admiration.
Scenario Example: “Wow, that lasagna looks amazing.”
Best Use: Friends, social gatherings.
Tone: Excited, warm.
Additional Notes: Works for any food.
18. That looks beautifully prepared
Definition: Highlights skill and presentation.
Detailed Explanation: Compliments effort and detail.
Scenario Example: “This sushi is beautifully prepared.”
Best Use: Professional, formal compliments.
Tone: Respectful, admiring.
Additional Notes: Perfect for chefs or hosts.
19. That looks fresh-looking
Definition: Suggests crispness and natural quality.
Detailed Explanation: Often used for vegetables, salads, seafood.
Scenario Example: “That fruit salad looks so fresh-looking.”
Best Use: Healthy meals, fresh produce.
Tone: Positive, appreciative.
Additional Notes: Suggests healthiness.
20. That looks perfectly cooked
Definition: Cooked to an ideal standard.
Detailed Explanation: Compliments skill and precision.
Scenario Example: “That steak looks perfectly cooked.”
Best Use: Meat, seafood, and technical dishes.
Tone: Respectful, admiring.
Additional Notes: Shows culinary awareness.
21. That looks succulent
Definition: Juicy, tender, rich in moisture.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for meats or fruits.
Scenario Example: “That roast looks succulent.”
Best Use: Steaks, roasts, fruit.
Tone: Descriptive, appreciative.
Additional Notes: Strongly sensory word.
22. That looks enticing
Definition: Attracts your attention and tempts you.
Detailed Explanation: Suggests inviting appearance.
Scenario Example: “The aroma and look of that dish is enticing.”
Best Use: Fancy dinners, desserts.
Tone: Elegant, warm.
Additional Notes: Slightly formal, versatile.
23. That looks well-presented
Definition: Nicely arranged and displayed.
Detailed Explanation: Focuses on plating.
Scenario Example: “Your dish looks so well-presented.”
Best Use: Professional settings, fine dining.
Tone: Polite, appreciative.
Additional Notes: Ideal for chefs and food bloggers.
24. That looks juicy
Definition: Full of moisture and flavor.
Detailed Explanation: Often for meats or fruits.
Scenario Example: “That burger looks so juicy.”
Best Use: BBQs, casual meals.
Tone: Excited, sensory.
Additional Notes: Informal, but vivid.
25. That looks satisfying
Definition: Promises fullness and contentment.
Detailed Explanation: More about comfort than looks.
Scenario Example: “That soup looks really satisfying.”
Best Use: Hearty, comfort foods.
Tone: Cozy, appreciative.
Additional Notes: Suggests nourishment.
Also Read Thsi : 30 Other Ways to Say ‘On The Other Hand’ (With Examples)
26. That looks incredible-looking
Definition: Strikingly impressive.
Detailed Explanation: Strong emphasis on visual appeal.
Scenario Example: “This cake is incredible-looking!”
Best Use: Big reveals, parties.
Tone: Energetic, admiring.
Additional Notes: Informal but impactful.
27. That looks wholesome
Definition: Suggests health, comfort, and goodness.
Detailed Explanation: Associated with natural or hearty meals.
Scenario Example: “That stew looks wholesome.”
Best Use: Healthy dishes, family meals.
Tone: Gentle, caring.
Additional Notes: Works in nurturing contexts.
28. That looks like temptation on a plate
Definition: So irresistible, it feels like pure temptation.
Detailed Explanation: Playful, dramatic phrase.
Scenario Example: “This dessert is temptation on a plate.”
Best Use: Desserts, indulgent foods.
Tone: Flirty, enthusiastic.
Additional Notes: Fun for social sharing.
29. That looks wonderful
Definition: General but heartfelt praise.
Detailed Explanation: Warm, genuine admiration.
Scenario Example: “Your cooking looks wonderful as always.”
Best Use: Everyday family or social settings.
Tone: Gentle, appreciative.
Additional Notes: Safe for all situations.
30. That looks too good to resist
Definition: Impossible to avoid eating.
Detailed Explanation: Strong craving implied.
Scenario Example: “That brownie looks too good to resist.”
Best Use: Casual, fun moments.
Tone: Playful, indulgent.
Additional Notes: Great for desserts and snacks.
Conclusion
Words have power. By finding different ways to say “That looks delicious,” you not only compliment the food but also show care, attention, and admiration to the person who prepared or shared it. From playful phrases like “yummy” to elegant ones like “exquisite”, you can choose the tone that fits best for the moment.
FAQs:
1. What’s the most formal alternative to “That looks delicious”?
“Exquisite” or “delectable” are best for formal settings.
2. Which phrase is best for kids?
“Yummy” or “scrumptious” works great with children.
3. Can I use these for drinks as well?
Yes—phrases like “refreshing,” “tempting,” or “flavorful” also work for drinks.
4. How can I compliment food on social media?
Use fun and engaging ones like “mouthwatering,” “temptation on a plate,” or “irresistible.”
5. What if I don’t want to sound repetitive?
Rotate between casual (yummy, tasty), elegant (exquisite, divine), and playful (scrumptious, irresistible).
“Emma Brooke at Grammar Synonyms is your trusted source for mastering the art of language. Whether you’re looking for the perfect synonym, refining your grammar, or searching for that one ideal phrase, we’ve got you covered. With a wealth of tools and resources, Emma Brooke brings you creative solutions for all your writing needs, making sure your words always hit the mark. Unlock a world of language possibilities and elevate your writing with ease.”
