I have the Straight Dope books (vital ref. tomes), I have done the web-searches, and asked just about everyone I know. If I am ever going to get an answer, it will more than likely be here.
Why “blue” plate special? Everyone I ask generally knows what the term “blue plate special” means. Generally speaking, a meal (typically lunch) served at restaurants that changes daily. When I ask why it’s called the “blue” plate special… I get funny looks. Help! It’s just really bugging me that no one can come up with anything - not even far-fetched speculation. So far, I have a lot of shoulder shrugging on this one.
Even some wild theories would be appreciated!
Luis
Wild speculation my father insisted was true:
During the 1800’s (maybe 1700’s), porcelain from China was becoming all the rage throughout Europe. Many local manufacturers were trying to replicate it (since its rarity and shipping costs made it prohibitively expensive), but even these were still pretty costly. One of the notable features of this porcelain was that the designs were almost always painted with blue glaze.
Because these dishes were so expensive, you wouldn’t use for just any occasion. Only on special days, or when an important guest was visiting would you use the blue plates. The special (usually more expensive) meal served at a restaurant or hotel therefore became known as “The Blue Plate Special.”
Disclaimer: I have absolutely no evidence that this is in fact true.