What Happens If You Order '86' Of Something At A Restaurant?

Hey guys! Ever wondered what would happen if you walked into a restaurant and ordered "86" of something? It sounds like a crazy request, right? Well, let's dive into this fun and intriguing scenario and explore the possible outcomes. We'll unravel the mystery behind the term "86," its origins, and the reactions you might get from the restaurant staff. So, buckle up and get ready for a hilarious culinary adventure!

Understanding "86": The Secret Language of Restaurants

First things first, let's decode the term "86." In the restaurant industry, "86" is a slang term that means an item is no longer available. It's a quick and efficient way for staff to communicate that a particular dish, ingredient, or even a drink is sold out or otherwise unavailable. The origins of this term are shrouded in mystery, with several fascinating theories floating around. Some say it originated from Chumley's, a speakeasy in New York City, where the address was 86 Bedford Street. When the police arrived for a raid, the staff would tell patrons to leave through the 86 Bedford Street exit. Another theory suggests it comes from the old Delmonico's Restaurant in New York, where an item listed as "86" on the menu was notoriously unpopular and rarely ordered. Regardless of its true origin, "86" has become a universal term in the restaurant world, understood by chefs, servers, and bartenders alike.

When a restaurant 86s an item, it means they can't serve it for any number of reasons. Maybe they ran out of the key ingredient, the dish wasn't prepared correctly, or the chef decided to remove it from the menu temporarily. It's a common occurrence in the fast-paced environment of a busy kitchen. Now, imagine walking into a restaurant and ordering "86" of something. The confusion and amusement you'd likely cause are definitely worth exploring!

Ordering "86" of Something: The Reactions You Might Get

So, you walk into a bustling restaurant, approach the counter or flag down a server, and confidently order "86" of something. What happens next? Well, the reactions you might get could range from utter confusion to bursts of laughter, depending on the server's personality and their familiarity with restaurant slang. Let's break down some of the potential scenarios:

The Confused Stare

The most likely initial reaction is a puzzled look. If the server isn't familiar with the term "86," they'll probably stare at you blankly, trying to decipher what you mean. They might ask you to clarify your order, perhaps thinking you've misspoken or are using some obscure code. This is your chance to explain the term and have a good-natured laugh about it. You could even educate them on the history and usage of "86" in the restaurant industry. Who knows, you might teach them something new!

The Amused Chuckle

If the server is in the know about restaurant lingo, they'll likely chuckle at your request. They'll recognize the humor in your order and might even play along. Imagine ordering "86 burgers" and the server replying with a witty, "Sorry, we're all out of burgers today!" It's a fun way to lighten the mood and engage in some playful banter. This scenario could lead to a memorable interaction and perhaps even a complimentary appetizer or dessert, depending on the server's generosity and the restaurant's culture.

The Serious Scrutiny

In some cases, especially in a more formal or high-end establishment, your "86" order might be met with a more serious response. The server might think you're trying to be disruptive or are making a joke at their expense. They might politely but firmly ask you to place a real order, or even alert a manager if they perceive your behavior as inappropriate. It's crucial to gauge the atmosphere of the restaurant and the server's demeanor before trying this out. A little bit of context and a friendly smile can go a long way in ensuring your joke is well-received.

The Kitchen Chaos

Imagine your server relays your order of "86 of something" to the kitchen staff. The reaction there could be even more chaotic. Picture the chef scratching their head, the line cooks exchanging confused glances, and the expeditor trying to figure out what the heck is going on. It could lead to a moment of hilarious pandemonium as everyone tries to make sense of your unusual request. The kitchen staff might even come out to see who placed such a bizarre order, adding to the amusement of the situation.

The Humorous Possibilities: What Exactly Would You Order "86" Of?

Now, let's get creative and explore some of the humorous possibilities of what you might order "86" of. The key is to choose something unexpected and slightly absurd to maximize the comedic effect. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

The Absurd Amounts

Imagine ordering "86 pickles" or "86 straws." The sheer quantity is inherently funny, and it raises the question of why anyone would need so many of a single item. The visual of 86 pickles piling up on a plate or a mountain of straws overflowing from a container is sure to elicit some laughs. You could even take it a step further and ask for "86 grains of rice," which would be both hilarious and practically impossible to fulfill.

The Non-Existent Items

How about ordering "86 unicorn tears" or "86 dragon scales"? These obviously fictional items are guaranteed to generate confusion and amusement. The server's reaction to such an outlandish request would be priceless, and it opens the door for some witty banter and creative storytelling. You might even inspire the restaurant to add a fantastical dish to their menu, named after your imaginative order.

The Menu Mishaps

Another option is to order "86 of the dish that always gets sent back." This is a playful way to poke fun at the restaurant's least popular menu item. The server might chuckle knowingly and share some inside information about which dish is the most problematic. It's a lighthearted way to engage with the staff and show that you appreciate their sense of humor.

The Hypothetical Horrors

For a darker twist, you could order "86 of the thing that gave the chef nightmares." This adds a touch of mystery and intrigue to your order. The server might be intrigued and ask for more details, leading to a fun and imaginative conversation about the chef's culinary fears. It's a creative way to spark a connection with the staff and show your appreciation for their artistry and passion.

The Etiquette of "86"ing: When to Play the Prank and When to Pass

While ordering "86" of something can be a fun and lighthearted prank, it's essential to consider the context and the potential impact on the restaurant staff. There are certain situations where it's best to avoid this joke and stick to a regular order.

Busy Times and Short Staff

During peak hours or when the restaurant is short-staffed, the servers and kitchen staff are already under a lot of pressure. Adding a confusing or unusual order to their workload can be stressful and disruptive. It's best to avoid the "86" prank during these times and show consideration for the staff's well-being.

Formal Establishments

In a formal or high-end restaurant, the atmosphere is typically more reserved and the service is more structured. A playful prank like ordering "86" of something might be seen as inappropriate or disrespectful. It's important to respect the ambiance of the establishment and avoid any behavior that could be perceived as disruptive.

Rude or Impatient Servers

If you encounter a server who is already having a bad day or is being rude or impatient, it's best to avoid any jokes or pranks. They might misinterpret your intentions and react negatively. It's always better to be polite and respectful, even if the service isn't up to par.

When in Doubt, Ask

If you're unsure whether it's appropriate to order "86" of something, the best course of action is to ask. You could casually inquire about the restaurant's culture and sense of humor, or even ask the server directly if they're familiar with the term "86." This will give you a better sense of whether your joke will be well-received.

The Takeaway: A Little Humor Can Go a Long Way

Ordering "86" of something at a restaurant is a fun and quirky way to inject a little humor into your dining experience. It's a conversation starter, a potential icebreaker, and a chance to connect with the restaurant staff in a memorable way. However, it's crucial to consider the context and the potential impact on others. Choose your moment wisely, be respectful of the staff, and remember that a little bit of laughter can go a long way in creating a positive and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.

So, the next time you're feeling adventurous, why not try ordering "86" of something? Just be prepared for a range of reactions, from confused stares to amused chuckles. And who knows, you might even start a new trend in the restaurant world! Just remember to have fun and enjoy the experience. After all, life is too short to take everything too seriously. Cheers to culinary adventures and humorous encounters!