Taking leftovers home from a restaurant when you're with family or friends who aren't eating anything else but drinks is generally considered acceptable and not rude. Many people do it to avoid wasting food and to enjoy their meal later.
There are a few reasons why taking leftovers home in this situation is usually seen as acceptable:
Food waste reduction: Taking leftovers home helps to minimize food waste, which is an important environmental concern. Instead of discarding the food, you can enjoy it later.
Cost consideration: Eating out can be expensive, and when you have a substantial portion of food left, it makes financial sense to take it home and enjoy it as another meal.
Restaurant norms: Most restaurants are accustomed to providing containers for customers to take home leftovers. It's a common practice, and restaurant staff generally expect it.
However, it's essential to consider the specific circumstances and the restaurant's policies. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Ask politely: If you're unsure whether taking leftovers is allowed or acceptable, you can politely ask your server if it's possible to take the remaining food home.
Packaging: Make sure you have appropriate containers to transport the leftovers. Some restaurants provide to-go boxes, but it's always a good idea to bring your reusable containers just in case.
Check with your companions: If you're dining with friends or family, it's courteous to ask if they mind or if they have any concerns about taking leftovers home. Some people might not like the idea for various reasons, so being considerate of their preferences is important.
In summary, taking leftovers home from a restaurant when others are only having drinks is generally considered acceptable and not rude. It helps reduce food waste, saves money, and aligns with common restaurant practices. However, it's always best to be considerate of your dining companions' feelings and check with the restaurant staff if you have any doubts.