Hash House Lingo: The Slang of Soda Jerks, Short-Order Cooks, Bartenders, Waitresses, Carhops and Other Denizens of Ye (Electronic book text)

Originally published in 1941, this pocket-sized treasury preserves the language of diners and roadside restaurants during their golden age in the '30s and '40s. From all hot (baked potato) and dog soup (water) to perk (coffee) and first lady (spare ribs), the long-lost terms are fascinating, funny, and sometimes politically incorrect by today's standards. Historic photos from the Library of Congress add nostalgic appeal.