A guide to saying it like a local

How to Say "To go please" in Italian

Learn how to say 'to go please' in Italian, the essential phrase for ordering takeout at cafes, pizzerias, and restaurants across Italy.

By PronunciationHub Editors · Reviewed 2026-05-21 · Neutral register

Da portare via, per favore.

dah por-TAH-reh VEE-ah, pehr fah-VOH-rehneutral

A single phrase, broken down

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Use this phrase when ordering food or drink that you intend to consume elsewhere. It is perfect at a pizzeria al taglio for slices to go, at a pasticceria for a box of pastries, or at a bar if you want your morning panino wrapped up. Note that traditional espresso is rarely taken 'to go' in Italy, though some modern shops now offer it.

Alternatives

Per portare via.slightly shorter and very common when nodding in agreement with a barista
Da asporto.more common on signs, menus, or when ordering a full meal like sushi or pizza over the phone

Ways to get it wrong

Saying 'per andare'

This is a literal translation of 'to go' that sounds like you want to physically walk somewhere rather than take food away.

Using 'per favore' without 'da portare'

Just saying 'to go' as 'andare' with 'please' confuses staff; always anchor the request with the verb 'portare' (to carry).

A small cultural note

While takeaway culture has grown significantly in Italy, drinking an espresso 'da portare via' in a paper cup is still uncommon; locals prefer to drink it quickly while standing at the bar.

Frequently asked

how do you ask for a doggy bag in italy

You can say 'Possiamo fare un pacchetto?' to ask for your leftovers to be wrapped up. It is increasingly common and totally acceptable in modern Italian restaurants.

do italians do takeaway coffee

Most traditional bars serve coffee exclusively in porcelain cups to be consumed at the counter. If you need it to go, explicitly ask for 'un caffè da portare via,' though it may come in a small plastic or paper cup.

difference between da asporto and da portare via

'Da asporto' is a more formal term often used for pizza delivery or restaurant signage, while 'da portare via' is the natural phrase you speak out loud to a server.