Diner lingo was most popular in American diners and luncheonettes from the 1920s to the 1970s, although its roots can be traced all the way back to the 1850s. Until recently, diner lingo had faded in popularity due to the rise in fast food establishments, but we are excited to see this fun slang language making a comeback in roadside restaurants and retro diners in places like Chicago, New Jersey, New York, and all across the country. So the next time you visit your favorite diner, try out some of these slang phrases on your waiter or waitress, and see if you can master the art of diner lingo!