Polite to Staff
Cultural · Dining
You
これ、持ち帰りはできますか？
これ、もちかえりはできますか？
Is it possible to take this to go?
Romaji: Kore, mochikaeri wa dekimasu ka? / Reply Romaji: Moushiwake gozaimasen, mochikaeri wa oukete oranai no desu ga...
Reply
申し訳ございません、お持ち帰りはお受けしていないのですが…
もうしわけございません、おもちかえりはおうけしていないのですが…
I'm very sorry, we don't offer takeout...
Gesture & etiquette
Ask quietly so as not to draw attention from other diners. If refused, accept gracefully with a nod — pushing back or expressing disappointment is considered rude in a restaurant setting.
Doggy bags are traditionally uncommon in Japan — many restaurants decline takeout for quality or hygiene reasons, and asking was once considered impolite. This is changing in cities, but be prepared for a polite refusal in traditional or high-end restaurants.