A waitress taking an order at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store restaurant.

FOOD NEWS

Here's What 'SOS' Actually Means At A Restaurant
by CEARA MILLIGAN
Even during busy times, restaurant kitchen staff know that "SOS" isn't a distress signal. It’s a vital shorthand way of communicating a customer’s preference regarding condiments.
When an order ticket reads "SOS," the customer has requested their sauces or condiments (which are not the same, by the way) to be served separately.
The code “SOS” means a patron wants their sauce on the side, allowing them to control distribution. This can be crucial for those with dietary restrictions or persnickety tastes.
In the fast-paced environment of a restaurant kitchen, understanding and fulfilling SOS requests efficiently is a testament to a well-trained and attentive staff.