What Does 86 Mean in a Restaurant? In the bustling world of restaurants, "86" is a critical term used to signify that a menu item or ingredient is out of stock or unavailable. Originating from the early 20th century, this shorthand allows restaurant staff to efficiently communicate with each other about shortages, avoiding confusion and minimizing customer disappointment. When a dish is "86'd," it's crucial for the front-of-house and back-of-house teams to update menus and inform guests promptly, ensuring a seamless dining experience and operational efficiency.