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use of doggie bags should be limited to more casual dining establishments, such as pubs or cafes, and they definitely shouldn’t be requested at Michelin-starred restaurants. This is especially so if you are dining at such a restaurant with business clients, or those of higher authority, who you are trying to impress, not embarrass.

It’s a mark of prestige for restaurateurs to earn Michelin-star status. It’s a hallmark of outstanding dining quality, mastery of technique and consistency of excellence in cuisine and service. If diners ask for a doggie bag at the end of the meal, it could indicate the food being served was not up to standard. This could cause an insult to the chef and the diner, and may leave a bad etiquette impression.

The dining etiquette regarding leftovers varies between countries. I know it is common that servers in formal dining establishments in North America offer doggie bags to diners to take away leftover food. However, in European countries, such as England, France and Italy, diners would never think of asking for doggie bags in proper restaurants.

Roberts has spent 20 years in marketing for such brands as Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana