verbal

Definition

An order called out by the server before the ticket prints, giving the kitchen a head start on preparation. Technically helpful, actually chaotic when servers abuse the privilege.

Example Usage

Verbal: two Caesar salads and one French onion soup for table 8.

Origin

Kitchen communication shorthand for non-written orders

Fun Fact

Some kitchens ban verbals entirely because they create confusion and mistakes when the printed ticket doesn't match what was shouted three minutes earlier.

Source: Kitchen-to-server communication protocol

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