In the food industry, packaging is more than a container—it’s part of your brand story. And few items say “thoughtful” and “eco-conscious” like the humble paper bag.
Whether you run a cozy café or a fast-paced takeout kitchen, the right paper bag makes a difference. It keeps food secure, presents your brand beautifully, and leaves customers with something worth holding onto—literally.
In this roundup, we break down 7 popular types of paper bags used by restaurants today. Each one serves a different purpose, and knowing which is right for your business can elevate both function and aesthetics.
🛍️ 1. Kraft Paper Bags with Handles
Best for: Takeout orders, bakeries, lunch sets
These brown or white kraft bags are sturdy, simple, and reliable. Add twisted paper handles, and you’ve got the perfect balance of strength and sustainability.
Why restaurants love them:
-
Easy to carry
-
Custom printable with logos, QR codes, or messages
-
Recyclable and affordable
🍰 2. Flat Handle Paper Bags
Best for: Pastry boxes, cake shops, or small gift sets
Similar to twisted handle bags but with flat paper handles glued inside the top rim—these offer a clean look and stack easily.
Why it stands out:
-
Minimalist design
-
Easy storage in tight spaces
-
Supports moderate weight with good grip
🥡 3. SOS (Self-Opening Sack) Bags
Best for: Grab-and-go counters, delis, fast food
The iconic lunch bag! These rectangular-bottom bags stand on their own, making them ideal for quick packing.
Perks include:
-
Budget-friendly
-
Ideal for dry or light food items
-
Easy to store and use in bulk
🥖 4. Glassine Lined Paper Bags
Best for: Oily, greasy, or moist foods
If you’re serving fried snacks, bakery items, or burgers, these are lifesavers. They have a thin glassine lining that resists grease without using plastic.
Why it matters:
-
Grease-resistant without plastic
-
Eco-friendly option for fast food
-
Great for presentation and food safety
🍱 5. Reinforced Bottom Paper Bags
Best for: Heavy meals, bento boxes, meal kits
These bags have a thicker, flat bottom that can carry more weight, perfect for full meal orders or catering.
Benefits include:
-
Stronger build = fewer accidents
-
Excellent for restaurants offering bundled meals
-
Feels premium and secure
💼 6. Luxury Euro Tote Paper Bags
Best for: Upscale branding, wine bottles, dessert shops
Made with thicker paper, ribbon or rope handles, and lamination—this is packaging that feels like a gift.
Use it when you want to:
-
Elevate your brand image
-
Add a luxury feel to special orders or gift sets
-
Reuse and repurpose beyond food
♻️ 7. Compostable Custom Printed Paper Bags
Best for: Eco-conscious cafés, organic restaurants, green brands
Go all-in with compostable inks, unbleached kraft paper, and recyclable materials. Customers notice—and appreciate—the effort.
Why they’re trending:
-
Aligns with sustainability values
-
Perfect for brands focused on environmental impact
-
Reinforces trust with green-conscious diners
Final Thoughts
The right paper bag does more than hold food—it delivers a message. Whether it says eco-friendly, premium, casual, or grab-n-go, your bag reflects your restaurant's identity and values.
With so many customizable options available today, you don’t have to settle for generic. You can design a bag that’s functional, beautiful, and memorable.
Need help choosing or designing your custom paper bags?
We offer low minimum orders, full-color custom printing, and expert advice for restaurants looking to boost branding through packaging.
Let your next bag do more than carry food—let it carry your story.
Would you like this post turned into a flyer or checklist to help clients compare paper bag types?
