Do they do that over there? I've heard that some places in Europe don't, but I know someone who had a container in their car and when they told the waitress that, she said it was fine to take it out that way - but they didn't provide that service.
I've had surgery and can't eat much at one time and was thinking of taking zip lock baggies in my bag for the food I'm not able to finish at a meal and will want to eat at a later time, but don't want to be rude.
It totally depends on the place so I think the zip locks is a great idea. No one asked in the pubs if we wanted to take the left-overs; other restaurants might or might not ask about taking the leftovers. I say take your own. I don't think you'll be rude.
If you ask almost any place will doggie bag for you. If you're good enough to provide your own container they'll be very happy to oblige.
Most restaurant portions in Europe are actually that. A portion. Unlike restaurants here in the US, where a "portion" could easily feed 2 people. Probably because of that, I've never seen doggy bags in Europe, so I would definitely suggest bringing your own plastic bags. One other thought, if you are travelling with somebody else and they don't mind doing this, would be for both of you to order a soup or salad, then split an entre. For example, in Italy, both my wife and I would order a salad, then one of us would order a pasta course and the other would order a meat course. We would then split the pasta and meat. Worked out great.
In the UK they always always give you a lot. My mother would always have a zip lock bag with her. My husband and I share a meal sometimes since you get a lot. Take your zip lock bags.
Some restaurant menus cater to smaller portions. Sometimes they are listed as "Half-portions", "Seniors fare" or "On the lighter side" meaning smaller portions. Or try making a selection from the a la carte menu. I've seen these options at most Full Service Restaurants located at major hotels in the UK.
You may or may not encounter this at Mom and Pops type restaurants or off the beaten track. So you're smart to be prepared. Gotta love those ziplocs!
(Just don't dine at a self serve buffet, load your plate a mile high then ask for a doggie bag...that doesn't go over too well! LOL!!)
You can always tell them you would like to "take-a-way" the remainder of your meal. You will be surprised how many places actually do provide the this service...if you don't ask .. you won't know.
that's good to know. thanks, ursula!
Do make sure that if you take left overs your hotel room has a fridge, you would not want to eat spoiled food and get really sick!Not all cheaper rooms will, so just check when you check in.
I take ziplock baggys with me every time I travel, their just good for so many things!
I love doing Take-away in London w/ Fish and Chips and then walking to one of their wonderful parks and eating it. Most pubs, especially outside their busy times will do that for you.
I always bring ziplocks when I travel.. not just for food but in case I have something liquid or soiled. They take up no room in the pack. I bring at least 6 sandwich size, 1 quart and in my luggage I bring a 3.5 gallon size for soiled clothes or if i need to "compress" for more space. You figure that British Breakfast is hearty.. why not grab a slice of bread, some bacon and make a quick sandwich for later to eat?!
I'm hoping I will be able to pack away a little of the breakfast before I leave for the day. Just won't be taking the bacon - we're mostly vegetarian (occasionally eat only 'clean' meats). :)
I was afraid that might be difficult over there, but after reading a bit, I realize it won't be difficult at all.
Good News! If one is a vegetarian or has allergies food packages in Europe(in local shops) will list if item has been processed in a Vegan plant etc... processed w/nuts etc... I noticed this last year and thought... "Too Cool". Even though I am not a vegetarian or vegan I wanted to let you know you will be okay.
Oh, that is good to know - very cool!
Especially since lard is such an easy word to miss when reading the tiny print for ingredients! :)
Thanks!
