Gordon Ramsay, the renowned British chef, restaurateur, and television personality, is known for his fiery personality, strict culinary standards, and colorful language. Among his array of catchphrases, “86 it” stands out as a term that has piqued the curiosity of many. But what does Gordon Ramsay mean when he utters these two simple words? To understand the context and significance of “86 it,” we need to delve into the world of culinary history, explore the etymology of the phrase, and examine how it is used in modern-day kitchens.
Origins of the Term “86 It”
The phrase “86 it” has its roots in the United States, specifically in the early 20th century. During this time, prohibition laws were in effect, and establishments selling alcohol would often have to dispose of their illicit liquor to avoid raids by law enforcement. One theory suggests that the Chatham Square area of New York City, which was home to many speakeasies, had a precinct with the address 86 Bedford Street. Whenever the police would receive a tip about an illegal speakeasy, they would send a message to “86” the establishment, meaning to raid and shut it down. Over time, the phrase “86 it” evolved to mean getting rid of or eliminating something altogether.
Culinary Context and Usage
In the culinary world, Gordon Ramsay’s use of “86 it” is often directed at dishes that fail to meet his high standards. This could be due to a variety of reasons such as poor presentation, inadequate flavor, or safety concerns. When he says “86 it,” he is essentially instructing his kitchen staff to remove the dish from the menu, discard the food, or start over from scratch. It’s a call to action that emphasizes the importance of quality and attention to detail in the culinary arts.
Consequences of Not Following Instructions
Not adhering to Gordon Ramsay’s instructions, including his command to “86 it,” can have serious consequences in the kitchen. This might include reprimands, additional work, or even dismissal from the show or restaurant. His strict adherence to quality standards and his willingness to “86” any subpar dish demonstrate his commitment to excellence and his passion for the culinary arts.
Impact on Kitchen Culture and Staff Dynamics
The use of “86 it” by Gordon Ramsay reflects the high-pressure environment of professional kitchens. His expectation of perfection and his willingness to eliminate any dish that does not meet his standards create a sense of urgency and accountability among kitchen staff. This culture, while demanding, fosters an environment where chefs and cooks strive for excellence, continually improving their skills and attention to detail.
Teaching Moments and Learning Opportunities
When Gordon Ramsay says “86 it,” it’s not just an order to discard food; it’s also a teaching moment. He often uses these opportunities to explain what went wrong, how it can be improved, and the importance of meeting high culinary standards. This approach not only helps in the development of kitchen staff but also provides viewers of his shows with insights into the culinary world, making them more appreciative of the effort and skill that goes into creating a high-quality meal.
Criticism and Controversy
Gordon Ramsay’suse of “86 it” and his overall kitchen management style have been subjects of both praise and criticism. Some view his approach as motivational and necessary for producing exceptional culinary results, while others see it as harsh and unnecessary, potentially damaging to the confidence and morale of kitchen staff. This debate highlights the complexities of managing a high-pressure kitchen environment and the challenges of balancing demand for excellence with staff well-being.
Conclusion and Reflection
Understanding what Gordon Ramsay means by “86 it” offers a glimpse into the demanding world of professional cuisine, where excellence is not just a goal but an expectation. The phrase, steeped in history and culinary tradition, serves as a reminder of the importance of quality, attention to detail, and accountability in the kitchen. As viewers and food enthusiasts, appreciating the significance of “86 it” enhances our understanding of the culinary arts and the dedication required to create exceptional dining experiences.
In the context of Gordon Ramsay’s kitchen, “86 it” is more than just a command; it’s a philosophy that drives towards perfection, a testament to the enduring pursuit of culinary excellence. Whether one agrees with his methods or not, the impact of “86 it” on kitchen culture and the culinary world at large is undeniable, making it a fascinating topic for exploration and discussion.
What is the origin of the phrase “86 It” in the culinary world?
The phrase “86 It” is believed to have originated in the United States during the Prohibition era, which spanned from 1920 to 1933. During this time, a popular cocktail called the “86 Cocktail” was created, and its name is thought to have been derived from the Chatham Square area of New York City, where 86 Bedford Avenue was located. Over time, the phrase “86” took on a broader meaning, becoming a slang term used by bartenders and chefs to indicate that a particular item was no longer available or was being discontinued.
In the context of Gordon Ramsay’s TV shows and restaurants, “86 It” is often used to mean “get rid of it” or “take it off the menu.” This phrase has become synonymous with Ramsay’s high culinary standards and his emphasis on quality control. When he instructs his staff to “86” a dish, it means that the dish does not meet his expectations and should be removed from service immediately. This phrase has become an integral part of the culinary world’s lexicon and is widely recognized as a command to stop serving or preparing a particular item.
How is the phrase “86 It” used in Gordon Ramsay’s kitchens?
In Gordon Ramsay’s kitchens, the phrase “86 It” is often used to convey a sense of urgency and importance. When Ramsay instructs his staff to “86” a dish, it means that the dish is not up to his standards and should be removed from the menu or discontinued immediately. This phrase is often used during high-pressure situations, such as during a dinner service or when a dish is not meeting the expected quality standards. Ramsay’s staff is trained to respond quickly and efficiently to the command, ensuring that the dish is removed from service and replaced with a new or improved version.
The use of “86 It” in Ramsay’s kitchens also reflects his emphasis on quality control and attention to detail. By using this phrase, Ramsay is able to communicate quickly and effectively with his staff, ensuring that subpar dishes are not served to customers. This phrase has become an integral part of the kitchen’s communication system, allowing Ramsay and his team to work together seamlessly to deliver high-quality dishes and exceptional customer service. By understanding the context and meaning of “86 It,” viewers of Ramsay’s TV shows and diners at his restaurants can gain insight into the high standards and expectations that drive his culinary empire.
Can the phrase “86 It” be used in non-culinary contexts?
While the phrase “86 It” originated in the culinary world, it has begun to be used in other contexts to mean “get rid of it” or “cancel it.” This phrase has been adopted by popular culture, appearing in TV shows, movies, and social media. In non-culinary contexts, “86 It” is often used to convey a sense of finality or decisiveness, indicating that something is no longer wanted or needed. For example, someone might say “86 the plans for tonight” to mean that the plans have been cancelled or abandoned.
The use of “86 It” in non-culinary contexts reflects the phrase’s versatility and adaptability. As a slang term, “86 It” has evolved to take on a broader meaning, becoming a catch-all phrase for getting rid of something unwanted or unnecessary. While its origins are rooted in the culinary world, the phrase has become a part of mainstream vocabulary, allowing people to communicate quickly and effectively in a variety of situations. By using “86 It” in non-culinary contexts, individuals can add a touch of culinary flair to their language, while also conveying a sense of decisiveness and finality.
Is the phrase “86 It” unique to Gordon Ramsay’s TV shows?
While Gordon Ramsay is often associated with the phrase “86 It,” it is not unique to his TV shows. The phrase has been used in the culinary world for decades, long before Ramsay’s rise to fame. Many chefs and restaurants use the phrase “86 It” to communicate with their staff and manage their menus. However, Ramsay’s TV shows have helped to popularize the phrase, introducing it to a wider audience and making it a recognizable part of the culinary lexicon.
The use of “86 It” on Ramsay’s TV shows, such as “Hell’s Kitchen” and “Kitchen Nightmares,” has contributed to its widespread recognition and adoption. Ramsay’s high culinary standards and emphasis on quality control have made the phrase synonymous with excellence and attention to detail. While other chefs and restaurants may use the phrase “86 It” in their own kitchens, Ramsay’s TV shows have helped to cement its place in popular culture, making it a recognizable and iconic phrase that is closely associated with the culinary world.
How does the phrase “86 It” reflect Gordon Ramsay’s culinary philosophy?
The phrase “86 It” reflects Gordon Ramsay’s culinary philosophy of quality and excellence. By using this phrase, Ramsay is able to communicate his high standards and expectations to his staff, ensuring that only the best dishes are served to customers. This phrase is a key part of Ramsay’s quality control system, allowing him to quickly and effectively identify and eliminate subpar dishes. By “86ing” a dish, Ramsay is able to maintain the high standards of his restaurants and protect his reputation as a culinary leader.
The use of “86 It” also reflects Ramsay’s emphasis on attention to detail and perfectionism. By removing a dish from the menu or discontinuing a particular item, Ramsay is able to refine his menus and ensure that every dish meets his exacting standards. This phrase has become a hallmark of Ramsay’s culinary philosophy, reflecting his commitment to excellence and his dedication to delivering exceptional dining experiences. By understanding the meaning and context of “86 It,” fans of Ramsay’s TV shows and diners at his restaurants can gain insight into the culinary philosophy that drives his success.
Can the phrase “86 It” be used in a humorous or ironic way?
While the phrase “86 It” is often used in a serious and decisive manner, it can also be used in a humorous or ironic way. In some cases, the phrase may be used to add a touch of whimsy or playfulness to a conversation, such as when someone says “86 the diet” to mean that they are abandoning their dietary restrictions. This phrase can also be used in a self-deprecating or ironic way, such as when someone says “86 my cooking skills” to mean that they are acknowledging their own culinary limitations.
The use of “86 It” in a humorous or ironic way reflects the phrase’s versatility and adaptability. As a slang term, “86 It” has evolved to take on a range of meanings and connotations, from serious and decisive to playful and ironic. By using the phrase in a humorous or ironic way, individuals can add a touch of lightheartedness and humor to their language, while also conveying a sense of personality and style. Whether used in a serious or humorous context, the phrase “86 It” has become a recognizable and iconic part of the culinary lexicon, reflecting the creativity and expressiveness of language.