party

Definition

The number of guests in a reservation or table, used to quickly communicate group size. A 'four-party' sounds more elegant than 'table of four,' apparently.

Example Usage

We've got a six-party VIP coming in at 8—prep the private room.

Origin

Restaurant reservation and service terminology

Fun Fact

Large parties (8+) strike fear into servers' hearts due to complicated split checks, dietary restrictions, and the inevitably terrible tip despite the automatic gratuity.

Source: Front-of-house service terminology

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