Pronunciation: [hˈaʃ hˈa͡ʊs] (IPA) 
The term "hash house" is spelled with the letter H, followed by the vowel sound "æ" as in "cat" and the consonant sounds "ʃ" as in "shh" and "haʊs" as in "house." In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be spelled /hæʃ haʊs/. The term originally referred to a cheap restaurant serving "hash" - a dish made of chopped meat, potatoes and onions - but has since become a synonym for any diner or greasy spoon establishment.
A hash house refers to a type of eating establishment or restaurant that typically serves inexpensive, no-frills, and hearty meals. It is commonly characterized by its simple and quick food services, catering to a large number of customers. The term "hash house" is often used as an informal and sometimes colloquial expression to describe such places.
Originating in the United States during the late 19th century, hash houses historically gained popularity as economical dining options for workers, particularly laborers, miners, and lumberjacks. These establishments would often offer plentiful portions of comfort food, including various meat dishes, potatoes, stews, and similar fare. The term "hash" itself refers to a dish made by cooking or preparing leftover or chopped food, such as corned beef hash or hash browns.
Hash houses are typically known for their casual ambiance and informal atmospheres, with communal seating arrangements and occasionally self-service options. They often attract a diverse clientele, spanning anyone from blue-collar workers seeking a budget-friendly meal to late-night revelers looking for sustenance after a night out. Over time, the term "hash house" has become synonymous with inexpensive diners or cafeterias, particularly those serving large portions of relatively simple, no-nonsense meals.
The word "hash house" is believed to have originated in the United States during the late 19th century. It combines the term "hash", referring to a mixture of chopped or minced meat and vegetables, with "house", denoting a place where food is prepared or served.
The term "hash" itself derives from the French word "hacher", meaning "to chop" or "to mince". In culinary contexts, "hash" refers to a dish made by cooking leftover meat or vegetables with various seasonings and sometimes potatoes.
In the late 1800s, "hash houses" were commonly used to describe inexpensive restaurants or diners that served affordable and simple meals, often consisting of "hash" dishes. These establishments were frequented by workers, particularly laborers, who needed quick and budget-friendly meals.
