13 Menus From the Past That Wouldn’t Fly Today

Old menus often reflected the social and health norms of their time. Some included language or practices that are now considered offensive, unsafe, or outdated. This list highlights examples of restaurant menu items and themes that would not be acceptable by today’s standards.

1. Racially Offensive Dish Names

Neal Mueller on Wikimedia Commons

Some menus from the past used racial slurs or offensive stereotypes to name dishes. These names were based on racist ideas and targeted specific ethnic or cultural groups. They were used casually in the food industry with little concern for the harm they caused. Today, this language is no longer tolerated in public businesses and would likely lead to a serious backlash.

2. Exotic Animal Meats

Nate Steiner on Wikimedia Commons

Menus in the early to mid-1900s sometimes featured animals like whale, turtle, or songbirds. These animals are now protected by international laws and environmental regulations. Serving them today would be considered illegal in many places and unethical by conservation standards. The protection of endangered species has changed what is considered acceptable to eat.

3. Extremely Unhealthy Meals

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Older menus often included meals that were high in fat, sugar, and salt without any nutritional information. Many meals were cooked in animal fat and served in large portions. There was little public knowledge about the health risks of these foods. Today, food safety guidelines and public health awareness have shifted what is expected in menu planning.

4. Gender-Based Menu Options

Andy Li on Wikimedia Commons

In some restaurants, menus were divided by gender, with lighter meals offered to women and heavier meals to men. Some menus even listed different prices for men and women. These menus were based on assumptions about gender roles and eating habits. This practice is now seen as discriminatory and has been largely removed from modern dining.

5. Culturally Insensitive Themes

Ignis on Wikimedia Commons

Restaurants sometimes used cultural imagery, names, or themes that were inaccurate or disrespectful. These menus often portrayed cultures in a simplified or stereotypical way. The intent was to entertain or attract attention, but the result was often offensive. Modern restaurants are expected to represent cultures accurately and with respect.

6. Smoking Shown as Part of the Meal

Basher Eyre on Wikimedia Commons

It was once normal to smoke while eating in restaurants, and some menus even showed ashtrays or cigarette advertisements. Smoking was allowed in indoor dining areas, including near children. Today, smoking is banned in most indoor public spaces due to health risks. This change reflects a better understanding of the dangers of secondhand smoke.

7. Alcohol Served to Minors

Nik Frey (niksan) on Wikimedia Commons

Some menus offered wine or beer to children, especially in European or colonial settings. There were few restrictions on alcohol service, and age was not always enforced. Now, strict laws prevent alcohol from being served to anyone under the legal age. Restaurants that ignore this can lose their license or face legal consequences.

8. Sexualized Language in Menu Items

Bugsinmyfood on Wikimedia Commons

Some restaurants used suggestive or sexual terms to describe food or drinks. This was done to attract adult customers or create a certain type of atmosphere. Today, this kind of language is often considered unprofessional or inappropriate in public settings. Businesses now tend to use neutral and respectful language when describing their products.

9. Making Jokes About Poverty

PPR 19 on Wikimedia Commons

Certain menu items were named in ways that mocked poor or homeless people. These names were meant to be humorous but made light of serious issues. Today, this type of language is not considered appropriate in any public setting. Many people now expect sensitivity when talking about social problems.

10. Raw Animal Products Without Warning

David Monniaux on Wikimedia Commons

Older menus often listed raw or undercooked foods like oysters, steak tartare, or raw eggs without any health warning. People were not always aware of the risks of bacteria or illness. Modern food safety laws require warning labels for these items. Restaurants are now responsible for informing customers of possible health risks.

11. Cigarette and Alcohol Advertisements on Menus

Antonio Kless on Wikimedia Commons

Some restaurants printed advertisements for cigarette or alcohol brands directly on their menus. These ads were part of business deals with tobacco and alcohol companies. Today, strict advertising laws prevent this kind of marketing in many places. Public health regulations now limit how and where these products can be promoted.

12. High-Risk Foods Like Pufferfish

Parazelsus on Wikimedia Commons

Certain restaurants served pufferfish (fugu), which can be deadly if prepared incorrectly. The fish contains a toxin that requires specialized training to handle safely. In many countries, chefs must be licensed and follow strict safety rules. Most restaurants avoid serving it due to the risk involved.

13. Racist Drawings or Mascots

Jvillemare on Wikimedia Commons

Some menus included cartoon images of people from different cultures drawn in exaggerated or offensive ways. These images were often used as mascots or decorations. They reinforced racist ideas and were widely accepted at the time. Today, such artwork is removed and replaced with more respectful design choices.

• Tags:
• Food history
• Cultural awareness
• Restaurant trends
• Menu evolution
• Public standards