What the numbers bartenders shout out actually mean: 'Hottie at the bar' (2024)

If you're heading to the pub in the near future, you might want to know the secret language bartenders use to discuss patrons without them realising it.

In a thread on Reddit, bartenders shared the covert 'numerical' codes they used when sussing out customers.

"A while ago I was told of a 'bartenders code' which consisted of various numbers that were used to represent things on the bar either secretly or quickly between staff," the original post read.

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What the numbers bartenders shout out actually mean: 'Hottie at the bar' (1)

"I was wondering if anyone knew any more or had a different/more comprehensive list of expressions?"

Bartenders revealed numbers like "86" were used as shorthand for when a drink or stock had run out, while "200" meant a customer was waiting.

RELATED: Mum credits special 'code words' with stopping daughter's abduction

For the more flirtatious bar-goer, "700" was used to refer to an attractive customer.

"It seems like a pretty fun and useful thing to get my staff doing," the original poster added.

A number of other bartenders shared their private codes, revealing how different numbers' meanings varied across countries.

What the numbers bartenders shout out actually mean: 'Hottie at the bar' (2)

One person said "699" was said in reference to a "hottie at the bar," while "700" was strictly reserved for "probably the hottest girl in the building is at the bar."

The code "900" meant there was a couple on a date where the man was likely to tip well because "he's showing off."

The numbers "601" and "602" were used to describe needing to go to the bathroom, while "608" meant it was time for a meal break.

Different numbers were combined with words to incorporate adjectives, such as the "300 high", which noted an attractive customer with "big boobs".

One bartender confessed the staff even used an "area code scale" to rate women at the venue.

What the numbers bartenders shout out actually mean: 'Hottie at the bar' (3)

"First number is face on a scale of 0-9, second number is either 0 or 1 (would or wouldn't) and last number is body," they explained.

"So 719 is pretty damn good and a 303 looks like your grandfather."

The phrase "shredding some documents" was a way to signify "when it's time for a shot or a quick beer in the cooler."

A Glasgow bartender says they widely use code words rather than numbers to communicate on the clock.

"We use 'shoes' to mean an attractive woman," they explained.

"The bar I used to work in was frequented by bartenders a lot, so we changed that to 'garnishes'."

What the numbers bartenders shout out actually mean: 'Hottie at the bar' (2024)

FAQs

What the numbers bartenders shout out actually mean: 'Hottie at the bar'? ›

700 - Hottie at the bar (So if you hear this being yelled when you next walk into a bar, give yourself a pat on the back). Shoes - A very attractive woman. 303 - Looks old enough to be your grandfather/mother.

What are the bartender codes? ›

“Things like '86', meaning to be a ran out of product, '200' meaning a customer waiting, '50' meaning to catch, and '700' to refer to an attractive customer,” they added.

What is the 50 bartender code? ›

Number 50

While the previously mentioned bartender code words are employed for customer interactions, the term “50” means they are throwing something at you. When this term is heard, it's time to be prepared to catch the incoming object.

What does 85 mean at the bar? ›

Others also said that they had codes referring to the upkeep of the bar such as number “85' if something was nearly out of stock, “86” for when something was completely out of stock, and then the reverse “68” when stock has been replenished.

What does 900 mean in a bar? ›

A number of other bartenders shared their private codes, revealing how different numbers' meanings varied across countries. The code "900" meant there was a couple on a date where the man was likely to tip well because "he's showing off." (Unsplash)

What is the bar code 700? ›

700 - Hottie at the bar (So if you hear this being yelled when you next walk into a bar, give yourself a pat on the back). Shoes - A very attractive woman.

What are the bar numbers? ›

Bar numbers provide a crucial reference point for music that has multiple players, and make the chronological sequence of the music clear. They indicate where players are in the piece, which allows them to co-ordinate themselves easily in rehearsals and concerts.

What is the angel code at the bar? ›

Angel Shot Straight Up/Neat is code for, “I need an escort to my car.” Angel Shot on Ice/on the Rocks is code for, “Please call a taxi/Uber/Lyft for me.” Angel Shot with a Twist/Lemon/Lime is code for, “I am in immediate danger. Please call the police.”

What is bartender 4? ›

Bartender is an award-winning app for macOS that superpowers your menu bar, giving you total control over your menu bar items, what's displayed, and when, with menu bar items only showing when you need them. Bartender improves your workflow with quick reveal, search, custom hotkeys and triggers, and lots more.

What is the bar drink code for help? ›

A customer asking for an angel shot indicates that they need help but do not feel comfortable outright asking for it in their present situation. These orders are usually requested in the presence of someone else who puts the customer in a dangerous position or makes the customer feel uncomfortable.

What does 2 for 1 mean at a bar? ›

Did someone say 2-for-1 co*cktails? Listen, someone needs to say it... there ain't no such thing as too much of a good thing. That's why you can get your hands on a bangin' 2-4-1 deal with us. That's 2 co*cktails for the price of 1 all happy hour, every happy hour.

What does "angel shot" mean? ›

When a patron orders an Angel Shot , they're covertly letting their bartender or server know that they're either on a date that's not working out, or they don't feel safe because of another guest's behavior.

What is a bar 1? ›

Bar is the unit of pressure that is almost similar to the atmospheric unit. 1 atm = 101.325kPa. 1 bar = 100 kPa.

What does 51% mean in a bar? ›

TEXAS “RED” 51% NO GUN SIGN

This is a 51% sign, meaning the business has a liquor permit or beer license. It also means the company receives 51% or more of its income from the sale of alcohol for on-premises consumption.

What does 100 bar mean? ›

100 bars = 100 atmospheres = 3300 feet = 1000 meters = 1470.0 PSI.

What is the safe word at a bar? ›

While they can vary at different establishments, the most common coded phrases include an “angel shot neat,” which means the bartender will arrange for you to be escorted safely to your car. Ordering an “angel shot with ice” signals the bartender to call you a ride.

What is the angel shot code? ›

An angel shot is a code word used by guests in a bar or restaurant to let staff know that they require assistance because they feel unsafe. It's a discreet way for guests to ask for help from, say, a bartender in situations where they may potentially be in danger.

What are 3 rules of being a bartender? ›

If you want to make it, following these golden rules will be your ticket to being a great bartender.
  • Rule #1: Be Sociable. ...
  • Rule #2: Know Your Drinks. ...
  • Rule #3: Don't Mess Up. ...
  • Rule #4: Have Some Tricks Up Your Sleeve. ...
  • Rule #5: Listen and Respond. ...
  • Rule #6: Go Above And Beyond. ...
  • Conclusion.
Mar 17, 2022

Do all bartenders know what an angel shot is? ›

Ordering an Angel Shot at a Bar

Depending on which shot the guest orders, a restaurant or bar that recognizes its meaning will know what to do. There are three different angel shots, each a signal that bartenders and restaurant managers should know as a plea for help.

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