When traveling to a Spanish-speaking country or dining at a Spanish restaurant, it’s useful to know how to say “doggy bag” in Spanish. The term “doggy bag” refers to a container provided by a restaurant to take home unconsumed food. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express this concept in Spanish, along with some useful tips and examples to help you navigate various Spanish-speaking environments.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Doggy Bag” in Spanish
If you find yourself in a formal setting or wish to use more sophisticated language, the following phrases are suitable options:
- 1. Bolsa para llevar: This phrase, meaning “bag to carry,” is widely understood across Spanish-speaking countries and is a polite way to ask for a doggy bag.
- 2. Recipiente para llevar: Translating to “container to carry,” this is another formal and respectful way to request a doggy bag.
- 3. Envoltorio para llevar: If you prefer to use the term “wrapping” instead of “bag” or “container,” this phrase can be utilized to convey the same meaning.
Informal Ways to Say “Doggy Bag” in Spanish
In more casual situations or informal settings, you might prefer to use simpler language. Here are some informal expressions commonly used to request a doggy bag:
- 1. Llevarse los restos: A straightforward way to ask for a doggy bag, this phrase literally means “take the leftovers.”
- 2. Guardar para llevar: This informal expression translates to “save for takeout” and can be used to request a doggy bag in a less formal environment.
- 3. Empacar lo que sobra: Meaning “pack up what’s left,” this phrase is commonly understood and suitable for informal situations.
Key Tips and Examples
Tips for Requesting a Doggy Bag in Spanish
When using these phrases, keep in mind the following tips:
Tip 1: Always be polite: Use “por favor” (please) to make your request more courteous, regardless of the formal or informal phrase you choose.
Tip 2: Use gestures: In some instances, especially in informal settings, it can be helpful to make a gesture associated with packing up leftover food, such as mimicking wrapping food in a napkin or placing food into a container.
Tip 3: Learn regional variations: Spanish varies across countries, so be aware of regional slang or dialects. The phrases provided in this guide are widely understood across most Spanish-speaking countries.
Examples of Using Phrases for Doggy Bags in Spanish
Let’s now explore some practical examples of how to ask for a doggy bag:
Example 1:
English: Could I have a doggy bag, please?
Spanish (Formal): ¿Podría darme una bolsa para llevar, por favor?
Spanish (Informal): ¿Me podría dar los restos para llevar, por favor?
Example 2:
English: Can I have this wrapped up to go, please?
Spanish (Formal): ¿Podría envolverlo para llevar, por favor?
Spanish (Informal): ¿Me puede empacar esto para llevar, por favor?
Example 3:
English: I would like to take the rest of the meal home.
Spanish (Formal): Me gustaría llevarme el resto de la comida.
Spanish (Informal): Quiero guardar lo que sobra para llevar.
By following this guide, you now have the necessary tools to request a doggy bag in Spanish confidently. Remember to adapt your choice of phrase based on the formality of the environment and, most importantly, always be polite. Enjoy your meals and good luck exploring the diverse culinary offerings of Spanish-speaking countries!
