Ever noticed a sign that made you do a double-take and then giggle for the rest of the day? We've gathered some of the most unexpectedly hilarious, brutally honest, and downright confusing public signs and notes from around the world. Warning: side effects may include spontaneous laughter and perplexed expressions!
“These chefs are not your mother.”
Chefs Nathalie and Jozef aren't here to coddle anyone. You want substitutions? Dream on! It’s their way or the highway, and don't even think about allergy requests. This kitchen doesn't do special treatment—unless your special treatment is loving the food exactly as it's served. You’ve officially been schooled by the menu. The options are clear: accept the meal as-is with a smile or hit the road. Somehow, I respect their energy—it’s very much a 'mom’s night off' sort of vibe. Welcome to the house of boundaries!
“Stay in school, kids.”
Clear ants? Clearance? Clean rants? This clearance section really has something for everyone—except, apparently, proofreaders. I’m still not over how 'clear ants' is now a thing at the store. Whoever put up these signs clearly had a day. At least we know everything is, in fact, at a reduced price—even if we’re not quite sure what it actually is.
“I see a cat”
If you’re interpreting bar paintings, it might be time to call it a night. This sign doubles as an impromptu sobriety test and I’m 99% sure I’d fail it. Honestly, if you start seeing meaning in this abstract, you probably need more fries and a taxi home. The best kind of bar safety.
“The most honest product description ever written??”
This is brutal honesty at its retail finest. They don’t know what this product is, why it’s here, or where it’s coming from, but they sure do want you to buy it and take it far, far away. They’re appealing directly to our sympathy—and a hint of existential terror. Who knew toy stores could be so mysterious?
“Another one from Indian hills.”
Only at Indian Hills: a pun that works on multiple levels and requires a collective appreciation. That’s some next-level sign humor for you. The best part is realizing not everyone may get the joke—thus fulfilling the sign’s own prophecy.
“At my local park”
Well, I guess that answers the question about adults randomly hanging out at the playground. No kid? No entry! Is this to keep things safe or because some adults just like the swings too much? Honestly, it’s the most polite way of saying, 'Hey grownups, this is not your personal jungle gym.'
“That makes sense actually”
I’ve never related more to a menu note. There’s a demon in the fridge and no one wants to work—it’s the greatest excuse for slow service I’ve ever heard. Respect to the staff who showed up. Honestly, I wouldn’t wrestle a demon for minimum wage either.
“Good advice. Thank you.”
We’re encouraged to grab both buns and eat like a man. Not totally sure what that means for my burger-eating technique, but I feel weirdly inspired? Also, does this mean no utensils, or is it a challenge to my masculinity? Clear instructions would help…or maybe not.
“I would never”
This high school sign is giving out some very confusing advice. Should I not buy or should I not forget? Is forgetting encouraged or not? I feel like this was supposed to be motivational, but mostly, now I want to forget my yearbook AND high school.
“Know yourself”
When you’re so self-aware, you cut yourself off before you can procrastinate. This is a next-level productivity hack and probably the most honest declaration in a study room. If only there were signs like this for every distracting coworker and chatty friend.
“Support your son's art”
It takes a brave parent to build a website over a stick figure–esque drawing and ask the internet to decide a child’s artistic fate. Seriously, is this support or a thinly-veiled roast? On the upside, at least the world gets a vote on this rock-and-bald guy masterpiece.
“Six Word Stories”
Wow, a warning about low-flying owls right above a lost chihuahua sign. I think we can draw our own conclusions about what happened here. This is one of those moments where you just want to hope for the best—but suspect the worst.
“Hiring sign of the week...”
This hiring sign just won the Olympics for unrealistic expectations. If only time travel was a job requirement too! No one under 18 with the wisdom of a 38-year-old, please. Experience required: all of it.
“Our saviour”
A billboard crossover of biblical resurrection and…Is that Shrek? This is either the most creative or the most confusing church marketing move ever. All I know is, I’d consider attending a service just for answers.
“Stop making Stupid people famous”
This graffiti isn’t holding back; it’s saying what many are thinking. I feel both seen and targeted at the same time. If only this was government policy—just think of the peace.
“My boyfriend caught this at work”
A private sign demanding not to be read. Oops. Too late. There’s just no way to win this game. Honestly, the forbidden fruit always tastes the sweetest—and apparently includes signage.
“A sign that's only funny for a few minutes.”
‘Moon’ to the right and there it is, like the happiest road sign and literal celestial matching game ever. Traffic directions taken to astronomical heights! Follow the sign, shoot for the moon, and hope the red and green traffic lights play along.
“How do you do, fellow kids?”
Desperate to reach the youth, management translated their friendly notice into pure Gen Z. You might not understand the words, but you know exactly what they mean. Sometimes, you just need to know when a bathroom 'got REKT.' Thanks, Ty.