Former FBI Director James Comey found himself in hot water over his Instagram post featuring seashells arranged to say “86 47.” Federal prosecutors interpreted this as a threat against President Donald Trump. However, many in the hospitality industry argue the term “86” is simply part of their everyday language, meaning something is out of stock or unavailable.
Mike Reyes, an operational consultant in hospitality, described “86” as a common term. He first heard it at his first restaurant job when he was just 14. In this context, it signifies that an item is depleted but will be reordered soon.
David Brungoli, the owner of an upscale Italian restaurant named Pavin 86, emphasized that his establishment’s name relates to East 86th Street, not any malicious intent. He stated, “We use ‘86’ when we run out of an item. It’s a regular part of our workflow.” Many chefs echoed this sentiment, noting the term’s long-standing use in kitchens where dishes get “86’d” if they don’t meet standards.
Historically, the origins of “86” remain uncertain. Some theories trace it back to the 1930s, linked to soda fountains, while other stories suggest it originated from the Delmonico’s menu or a Manhattan speakeasy called Chumley’s. In each case, it signified something being used up or removed.
The term also caught political attention. In a recent interview, Trump referred to “86” as a mob term for “kill him,” highlighting its multifaceted meanings. However, experts like Zach Jensen from the Mob Museum in Las Vegas clarified that there is no solid evidence linking “86” to organized crime, suggesting it is largely urban legend.
Nicole Holliday, a linguistics professor at UC Berkeley, pointed out that while “86” can have grim interpretations, its primary use in hospitality speaks to efficient service rather than threats.
In today’s fast-paced dining environment, words matter. How we interpret phrases can shift based on context and industry. The debate over Comey’s Instagram post illustrates how language evolves and how misunderstandings can arise.
This incident serves as a reminder: words carry significant weight, especially in our increasingly interconnected world. For those in the restaurant business, “86” remains a simple term reflecting everyday operations, not something sinister.
For further reading on the evolution of culinary language and its impact on culture, check out Merriam-Webster’s definition of ‘eighty-six’.
