Which phrase describes a situation where a restaurant is extremely busy and overwhelmed?

The phrase "in the weeds" specifically denotes a situation in the restaurant industry where staff members, particularly servers or kitchen staff, are overwhelmed by a high volume of customers and orders. This term captures the feeling of being overrun and unable to keep up with demands, which can lead to mistakes and a hectic environment. This urgency and busyness are part of the fast-paced nature of quick service restaurants, and understanding this term can help staff recognize and manage the stress that comes with peak service times.

While "at capacity" refers to a restaurant reaching its maximum seating or service limit, it does not inherently imply that the staff is struggling to manage the workload. "In the zone" typically describes a state of being focused and performing efficiently, while "under pressure" indicates stress but does not specifically convey the chaotic context of being overwhelmed by busyness in a restaurant setting. Therefore, "in the weeds" best encapsulates that specific experience of being overwhelmed in a busy restaurant environment.