Have you ever walked into a restaurant and been greeted by a host who asks, “How many tops do we have tonight?” or “We have a party of four tops waiting to be seated.” If you’re like most people, you might have been confused by this terminology, wondering why tables are being referred to as “tops.” In this article, we’ll delve into the history of this peculiar phrase and explore its evolution in the restaurant industry.
A Brief History of Restaurant Terminology
To understand why tables are called “tops” in restaurants, we need to take a step back and look at the history of restaurant terminology. The term “top” originated in the late 19th century, when restaurants began to use tablecloths to cover their tables. The tablecloth was seen as the “top” of the table, and the term stuck. Over time, the term “top” became synonymous with the table itself, rather than just the tablecloth.
The Rise of the “Top” in Restaurants
In the early 20th century, restaurants began to use the term “top” to refer to a table that was ready to be seated. This was partly due to the influence of the railroad industry, where trains were divided into “tops” and “bottoms” to indicate the direction of travel. Restaurants adopted this terminology to indicate which tables were ready to be seated and which were not.
The Impact of Technology on Restaurant Terminology
The advent of technology in the restaurant industry has also played a role in the widespread use of the term “top.” With the introduction of computerized reservation systems and table management software, restaurants were able to track and manage their tables more efficiently. The term “top” became a convenient shorthand for restaurant staff to communicate with each other about table availability and seating.
The Benefits of Using “Top” in Restaurants
So why do restaurants continue to use the term “top” to refer to tables? There are several benefits to using this terminology:
- Efficient Communication: Using the term “top” allows restaurant staff to communicate quickly and efficiently about table availability and seating. It’s a concise way to convey information that’s easy to understand.
- Streamlined Service: By referring to tables as “tops,” restaurants can streamline their service and ensure that tables are turned over quickly. This helps to maximize seating capacity and reduce wait times.
- Industry Standardization: The use of the term “top” has become an industry standard, making it easier for restaurant staff to communicate with each other and with customers.
The Drawbacks of Using “Top” in Restaurants
While the use of the term “top” has its benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
- Confusion for Customers: For customers who are unfamiliar with the term “top,” it can be confusing to hear restaurant staff referring to tables in this way. This can lead to misunderstandings and frustration.
- Limited Flexibility: The use of the term “top” can be limiting, as it implies a fixed table size and configuration. This can make it difficult for restaurants to accommodate large or unusual parties.
Alternatives to Using “Top” in Restaurants
While the term “top” is widely used in the restaurant industry, there are alternatives that restaurants can use to refer to tables. Some options include:
- Table Numbers: Restaurants can use table numbers to identify specific tables and communicate with staff.
- Table Descriptions: Restaurants can use descriptive terms, such as “booth” or “banquette,” to refer to specific tables or areas of the restaurant.
Conclusion
The use of the term “top” to refer to tables in restaurants is a long-standing tradition that has its roots in the history of the industry. While it may seem confusing to customers, it’s a convenient shorthand that allows restaurant staff to communicate quickly and efficiently about table availability and seating. By understanding the origins and benefits of this terminology, we can appreciate the complexity and nuance of the restaurant industry.
In the end, the use of the term “top” is just one example of the many quirks and traditions that make the restaurant industry so unique. Whether you’re a seasoned restaurant professional or just a curious customer, there’s always more to learn about the fascinating world of restaurants.
What is the origin of the term “tops” in restaurants?
The term “tops” in restaurants is believed to have originated in the early 20th century in the United States. During this time, restaurants and diners began using a system of shorthand to quickly communicate orders between the waitstaff and the kitchen. “Tops” was likely used as a way to indicate that a dish should be topped with a specific ingredient, such as cheese or gravy.
Over time, the term “tops” evolved to become a standard part of restaurant lingo. It was often used in conjunction with other shorthand terms, such as “draw one” (meaning to draw a cup of coffee) or “86” (meaning to remove an item from the menu). Despite its widespread use, the exact origin of the term “tops” remains unclear, and it is likely that its meaning and usage varied from restaurant to restaurant.
How is the term “tops” used in restaurants today?
In modern restaurants, the term “tops” is still used to indicate that a dish should be topped with a specific ingredient. For example, a waiter might call out “tops with cheese” to indicate that a burger should be topped with cheese. The term is often used in conjunction with other shorthand terms, such as “well done” or “no pickles.”
The use of “tops” in restaurants today is largely a matter of tradition and convenience. It allows waitstaff and kitchen staff to quickly and efficiently communicate orders, even in the midst of a busy service. While the term may seem obscure to outsiders, it is an essential part of the language of restaurants and continues to be used by staff around the world.
Is the term “tops” unique to the United States?
While the term “tops” is most commonly associated with American restaurants, it is not unique to the United States. Similar terms are used in restaurants in other countries, such as the United Kingdom and Australia. In these countries, the term “topping” or “topped with” is often used instead of “tops.”
Despite these similarities, the use of “tops” in American restaurants is distinct and reflects the unique cultural and historical context of the US food service industry. The term is closely tied to the development of diners and fast food restaurants in the United States, and its use continues to be an important part of American restaurant culture.
How has the term “tops” evolved over time?
The term “tops” has evolved significantly over time, reflecting changes in restaurant culture and technology. In the early 20th century, “tops” was used primarily in diners and other casual restaurants, where it was used to quickly communicate orders between the waitstaff and the kitchen.
In recent years, the term “tops” has been adopted by a wider range of restaurants, including fine dining establishments and fast food chains. The rise of digital ordering systems and kitchen display screens has also changed the way that “tops” is used, with many restaurants now using electronic systems to communicate orders instead of traditional shorthand.
Is the term “tops” still widely used in restaurants today?
Despite the rise of digital ordering systems and other technological advancements, the term “tops” remains widely used in restaurants today. Many restaurants continue to use traditional shorthand systems, including “tops,” to quickly and efficiently communicate orders between the waitstaff and the kitchen.
In fact, the use of “tops” and other shorthand terms has experienced a resurgence in recent years, as many restaurants have sought to adopt more traditional and personal approaches to service. This has helped to ensure the continued relevance of “tops” in modern restaurants, even as technology continues to evolve.
Can the term “tops” be used in other contexts?
While the term “tops” is most closely associated with restaurants, it can also be used in other contexts. For example, in some parts of the United States, “tops” is used as a colloquialism to mean “the best” or “the greatest.”
In addition, the term “tops” has been adopted by some non-restaurant businesses, such as cafes and food trucks, as a way to quickly and efficiently communicate orders. However, its use in these contexts is generally less widespread and less formalized than in traditional restaurants.
What is the significance of the term “tops” in restaurant culture?
The term “tops” holds significant cultural and historical importance in the restaurant industry. It reflects the unique traditions and practices of American restaurants, and its use continues to be an important part of restaurant culture.
The term “tops” also represents a connection to the past, when restaurants relied on traditional shorthand systems to communicate orders. Its continued use today serves as a reminder of the industry’s rich history and the importance of preserving traditional practices in the face of technological change.