This is not the case of American versus English language, like 'take out' and 'take away' or 'eggplant' and 'aubergine'. There is no cute English idiom for it: its not a 'rummy sack' or a 'Cockney satchel'. As far as I can tell, 'Doggy bags' just do not exist in England. In case I have an English reader, I might have to explain that a 'doggy bag' is container that a restaurant in America gives where you put the rest of your meal that you couldn't finish because the portion size was so ridiculous that the only way you could possibly finish it is to take it away with you afterward and have the rest later, or tomorrow,… or presumably give it to a dog. I cannot make my mind up whether the absence of the doggy back is an improvement or not. We have not dined at too many restaurants in England. I must admit that I do enjoy the shock and awe at Antonio's in New Bedford as the single portion of Carne de Porco à Alentejana, big enough to feed a small family, arrives at the table. Even though I know it's coming, it amazes me every time. My advice to the English reader on holiday in America: the proper response to the offer of a doggy bag is "no, thank you, I am on vacation". This response will not stop the quizzical looks or the many suggestions on how you could still benefit from taking the rest of your meal with you. Other than ordering a half portion, this is the best I can offer.
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