What utensils, napkins, etc. to expect when you order take out?

[Rick]

I just ordered lunch take out from a chinese place that I frequently eat in at. I admit I almost never order take out so that's why I'm asking this question here. I got back to my office, and I had no napkins and no utensils. The server that normally waits on me when I eat in did the packaging and I always tip him well and I tipped him on the take out. Do you usually get utensils with take out, or do you have to ask?

[Janet from Richmond]

I usually get them or they will ask if I need them (along with condiments).

[ipsedixit]

Not to hijack this thread, but do you expect utensils when you "doggie-bag" your food?

[Rick]

I don't expect utensils for a doggie bag, but I plan on taking the doggibe bag home. Take out during lunch in my opinion is often eaten outside of your home.

[jfood]

no to doggie bag utensils.

it depends on whether it is obvious I'm taking home to eat or sitting in the park on a beautiful day or suffering at the office.

on a saturday night at a resto that the food is an add-on to normal biz, probably do not expect any utensils. Sorta takes the mood outta sitting in front of the fire or on the terrace with plastic, blah.

lunch at the park or back in the office, sandwich - gotta have napkins, and ask if mustard, ketchup and mayo wanted; hot food or salad - fork, knife, salt, pepper, napkin; if there is a need for a spoon, should be included.

chinese - please put the chop sticks in the bag without asking

[S U]

Theoretically, you should get the ncessary utensils in the bag. Unfortunately, I've noticed a recent trend of small places cutting corners such as not providing utensils/napkins, sauces, etc. Best to peek before dashing out the door, or requesting along with the order.

[Frosty Melon]

One of my regular take-out spots ALWAYS ask me on the phone if I will want napkins and/or silverware. My answer is usually no, so I appreciate that.

[Midlife]

Certainly utensils should be included! Maybe I'm missing something here but this sounds like a simple oversight, inexperienced staff or just a bit of stupidity. I do takeout 3 or 4 times a week and I'd guess there's something missing once every other week. Getting through a container of Wor Won Ton soup with no utensils is an interesting challenge. Luckily I found a fork from a previous take-out, and could slurp my way through the broth. One place has packed fries with no ketchup (or substitute) a couple of times. Not critical, but still annoying. Alway apologetic if I mention it the next time.

[Flynn1]

When I order Chinese food from my regular take-out, they automatically throw in wooden chopsticks wrapped in paper, plastic utensils, soy sauce, mustard and a fortune cookie all enclosed in a small plastic packet.