what is the meaning of 86 in restaurant

2 min read 02-02-2025

The restaurant industry has its own unique language, a blend of culinary terms and insider slang. One term you might hear, especially if you work in or frequent restaurants, is "86." But what does 86 mean in a restaurant? It's not a secret menu item, nor is it some kind of code. This article will delve into the meaning, origins, and variations of this common kitchen phrase.

Decoding the Mystery: The Meaning of "86"

In short, "86" in a restaurant means to remove something from the menu, either temporarily or permanently. It can refer to a dish, an ingredient, or even a customer (though this is less common and usually implies a ban). Think of it as a culinary "out of stock" notice, but with a more established and efficient communication method.

This concise term allows for quick, clear communication in a fast-paced kitchen environment where efficiency is paramount. Instead of saying "We're all out of the chicken parmesan," a chef can simply yell, "86 the chicken parm!"

Variations and Nuances of "86"

While the core meaning remains consistent, the usage of "86" can vary slightly depending on context:

86 an item: This is the most common usage, indicating an item is unavailable.
86 an ingredient: If a key ingredient is missing, the entire dish might be 86'd. For example, if a restaurant runs out of tomatoes, they might 86 dishes that require them.
86 a customer: This is far less frequent and usually refers to a customer who has been banned for disruptive behavior. This isn't a common or polite use of the term.

The Origins of Restaurant Slang: Tracing "86"

The exact origin of "86" in restaurant slang is debated. However, the most widely accepted theory points to New York City's 86th Street, which housed many popular restaurants in the mid-20th century. One popular story claims that a restaurant there routinely used the number to signify items that were no longer available. Over time, the slang spread throughout the culinary world.

Regardless of its precise origins, its widespread adoption demonstrates the practical value of concise communication within the restaurant industry.

Beyond the Kitchen: "86" in Other Contexts

While primarily restaurant slang, "86" has found its way into broader usage. It can be used informally to indicate something is unavailable, unwanted, or removed. However, using it outside a restaurant context might not always be understood.

How "86" Improves Restaurant Efficiency

In the high-pressure environment of a restaurant kitchen, efficient communication is crucial. "86" provides a clear, concise, and widely understood term for handling menu item availability. It prevents confusion and delays, ensuring smooth order fulfillment.

Other Common Restaurant Slang Terms

Beyond "86," the restaurant world is brimming with specialized terms. Here are a few others:

Fire: Start cooking an order immediately.
On the fly: Prepare an order immediately upon receiving it.
In the weeds: Extremely busy and overwhelmed.
Side work: Cleaning, prepping, etc., tasks done outside of direct order fulfillment.

Understanding these terms can improve your restaurant experience and appreciation of the industry's unique culture.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of "86"

The term "86" has firmly established itself in culinary lexicon. Its concise nature and widespread understanding make it an essential tool for effective communication in restaurants. So, next time you hear it, you'll know exactly what it means: something's been removed from the menu. It’s a perfect example of how jargon evolves and simplifies communication within a specific industry. Now you're in the know, ready to navigate the world of restaurant slang with confidence!