In the world of restaurant lingo, the term “86” holds a special meaning. It originated in the 1930s diner slang and has since become a widely recognized term in the industry. This term is often used to indicate that something is no longer available or has been canceled.
To understand the meaning of “86,” let's dive into some examples and scenarios where this term is commonly used. Imagine you're at a bustling diner, and you place an order for a burger with no onions. However, the chef accidentally adds onions to your burger. In this situation, the chef would need to “86” the onions, meaning they would remove them from your order.
Now, let's explore another scenario. Picture a cozy restaurant that serves a different soup every day. The chef prepares a limited quantity, let's say 85 portions, of the soup of the day. As the day goes on, customers start ordering the soup, and eventually, the restaurant runs out. In this case, the chef would announce that they are “at 86” the soup, indicating that it is no longer available.
It's worth noting that the term “86” is not limited to just food items. It can also be used to refer to drinks, ingredients, or even certain customer requests. For example, if a customer asks for a specific cocktail that requires a particular ingredient the bar is out of, the bartender might say they are “86” that drink until they restock the ingredient.
In the fast-paced environment of a restaurant, clear and concise communication is crucial. The use of terms like “86” helps streamline communication between staff members, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. It allows for quick and efficient updates on what is available and what is not, preventing any confusion or mistakes.
As a sommelier and brewer, I've personally witnessed the use of the term “86” in various restaurant settings. It's fascinating to see how this slang has become ingrained in the industry's culture. It adds a sense of camaraderie among staff members, almost like speaking a secret language that only those in the industry truly understand.
To summarize, the term “86” in restaurant lingo refers to something being canceled or no longer available. It originated in the 1930s and has since become a widely used term in the industry. Whether it's removing an ingredient from an order or announcing that a dish or drink is sold out, “86” is a shorthand way for restaurant staff to communicate effectively.