Asporto

Asporto is a term used in Italian to describe food and beverages prepared in a restaurant, bar, bakery, or cafe that are intended to be taken away and consumed off the premises. The concept is commonly referred to in English as takeout or to go. Asporto encompasses a range of items, including ready meals, pastries, snacks, and drinks, and is frequently indicated on menus with phrases like “Da asporto” or simply “Asporto.”

In practice, take-away orders are placed for pickup at the counter or via online or phone orders for a stated collection time. Items prepared for take-away are typically packaged in disposable containers designed to preserve temperature and prevent leaks; beverages may be sealed, and utensils or condiments are often provided upon request. Food safety considerations emphasize keeping hot foods hot and cold foods cold, as well as proper labeling and handling during transport.

Asporto is distinct from delivery, which is the service of bringing the order to the customer’s location, often labeled as “consegna a domicilio” in Italian. Some establishments offer both options, sometimes under a combined label such as “asporto e delivery.” The term reflects a consumer preference for convenient, on-the-go meals and is widely used across Italy in various dining formats.

Etymology traces to the Italian verb asportare, meaning to carry away; the noun asporto denotes the act of taking away food or drink to be consumed elsewhere.