What Does 86 Mean in a Restaurant? In the bustling world of restaurants and bars, the term “86” holds a special significance. If you’ve ever dined out and heard the staff mention that a dish or drink is “86ed,” you might have wondered what exactly that means. In the restaurant industry, "86" is a term used to indicate that a particular item is no longer available. This could be due to a number of reasons, such as running out of stock, discontinuing the item, or even a temporary removal from the menu.

The origin of the term is somewhat murky and has been the subject of much speculation. One popular theory is that it originated from New York City diners in the early 20th century. According to this theory, 86th Street was a well-known location where certain items were frequently sold out or removed from the menu. Another theory suggests that the term may have roots in the bar industry, where "86" was used as shorthand to signify that a particular drink should no longer be served, possibly based on the address of a popular bar or a code for drink disposal.

Regardless of its origins, "86" has become an integral part of restaurant and bar lingo. When an item is 86ed, it is communicated to both kitchen and service staff to ensure that the item is not prepared or sold. This helps maintain smooth operations and prevents customer disappointment. For example, if a restaurant’s chef runs out of a key ingredient for a signature dish, the dish might be 86ed until the ingredient is replenished. Similarly, if a bar has run out of a particular liquor, the staff might 86 it from the drink menu.

The use of "86" is not limited to food and beverages; it can also apply to other aspects of restaurant operations. For instance, if a certain table or section of the restaurant is closed for maintenance or reserved for a private party, it might be referred to as “86ed” for that period.

In summary, “86” is a shorthand term used in the restaurant and bar industry to indicate that an item is no longer available. While its exact origins remain a topic of debate, its practical application is clear: it helps streamline restaurant operations and communicate important information to both staff and customers. So the next time you hear that your favorite dish has been 86ed, you’ll know it’s not just a quirky piece of jargon, but a vital part of keeping the dining experience running smoothly.