"Don't Take My Food"

[Bobbert]

I was in a restaurant in Mexico and some of my food was still on the table, but I wanted to wash my hands before I left. The waitress was cleaning off tables, so I wanted to tell her not to take my food because I was coming right back. I was unsure of what verb to use, so I said nothing. Now that I have time to think about it, I want to know what to say the next time.

Which is the best way to say: “Please don’t take my food because I’m coming right back”?

Por favor, no se lleve mi comida porque vuelvo enseguida/ya vuelvo.

Por favor, no me quite la comida de la mesa porque vuelvo enseguida/ya vuelvo.

Por favor, no saque mi comida de la mesa porque vuelvo enseguida/ya vuelvo.

Do all these verbs above convey the same message?

Is one verb better to use than the other? And, of course, I want to be sure to use a verb that conveys politeness.

Any and all input is appreciated.

[AngelicaDeAlquezar]

I'd prefer "no se lleve mi comida" or "no me quite la comida". The verb "sacar" here sounds strange for me.

And if you want to sound very Mexican: (Pointing to the plate) "Por favor no se lo vaya a llevar; ahorita regreso". ;)

[Bobbert]

Thank you, Angelica.

I'm going to memorize your suggested sentence. I can't wait to use it!! :)

[poli]

Retirar is also commonly used for taking away (as in food from a restaurant) at least in Caribbean Spanish. A lot of times you may hear a waiter or busser ask ¿Puedo retirar los platos?
I assume you can say, por favor, no retire la comido, regreso en seguida o ahorita

[AngelicaDeAlquezar]

I agree with Poli: "retirar" is very often used for taking the tableware after a meal in a restaurant. You may also say: "Por favor no me lo retire todavía, ahorita regreso". :D

[Bobbert]

Thanks, poli. I'm familiar with the verb "retirar, " but never thought about using it in this instance. That's another great option.