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The restaurant business can be incredibly cutthroat, and standing out from the competition often requires a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of humor. Owners are always coming up with unique ways to grab attention—whether it’s an unforgettable name, eye-catching decor, or hilarious signs that make customers chuckle and come back for more. 

Today, we’re dishing out another round of El Arroyo’s legendary funny signs, and let me tell you—it was no small task picking the best ones. Whether you’re a fan of clever wordplay, quirky humor, or simply need a good laugh to turn your day around, we’ve handpicked some of their finest for you to enjoy.

And while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out our exclusive interview with Sumersing Patil and Pravin Kadam, the co-owners of Swaad – Assal Marathi, a restaurant based in Munich that’s bringing the authentic taste of Marathi cuisine to the city. So scroll on, enjoy the laughs, and stay tuned for some behind-the-scenes restaurant wisdom!

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    Choosing the perfect name for a restaurant is no easy task. Sure, the dishes and recipes get all the spotlight, but the name? That’s the first thing people notice—it’s what gets them curious, makes them remember you, and sets the vibe for the entire place.

    It’s like giving your restaurant its own personality, so naturally, a lot of thought (and maybe a few sleepless nights) goes into getting it just right.

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    #4

    Sign at El Arroyo Austin humorously suggesting taco trucks cruise like ice cream trucks.

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    Kelly H. Wilder
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes! Why has no one done this? Food trucks on the go instead of clustering in just a couple of places around town that I can't get to in my brief lunch break...wonderful idea!

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    #5

    El Arroyo sign with text "Mi casa es su casa but mi taco es mi taco" in a sunny outdoor setting.

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    Sumersing Patil and Pravin Kadam, co-owners of Swaad – Assal Marathi, shared with Bored Panda how they arrived at their restaurant’s meaningful name despite being in a foreign land.

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    “In India, when we eat food, we say swaad, which means taste,” they explained. “In Marathi, the state language of Maharashtra, we say assal marathi, which translates to authentic Maharashtrian food.” 

    #8

    El Arroyo sign with humorous quote about errands counting as going out.

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    #9

    El Arroyo sign: "HATE WHEN I GO OUT IN PUBLIC AND THE PUBLIC IS THERE," showcasing humorous message.

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    S Bow
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's just too peopley out there.

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    Their restaurant, known for its flavorful Maharashtrian cuisine, reflects their pride in authenticity. “While the name is important, it’s equally important for us to represent our language and culture,” Sumersing and Pravin emphasized. 

    They spent a few days brainstorming, tossing around ideas that might catch attention, but eventually decided to skip anything too flashy or funky. For them, authenticity was the winning formula. “We didn’t want a gimmick; we wanted something that spoke to who we are and what we serve,” they said.

    #10

    El Arroyo sign with a humorous message about losing things in safe places.

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    axle f
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    10 out of 10 times, if you find it? It's in the last place you look for it...

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    #11

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message: "My day starts backwards. I wake up tired & go to bed wide awake."

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    #12

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message: "SORRY I'M LATE! I GOT HERE AS SOON AS I WANTED TO."

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    The Announcer
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Regardless of when this event began, I arrived precisely on time!

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    At the same time, they acknowledge that every restaurant is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

    “Each owner should do what they think works best for them. For us, it was about staying true to our roots, but for others, it might mean experimenting with quirky names or standout concepts.”

    #13

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message: "I need to teach my facial expressions how to use their inside voice."

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    #15

    Sign at El Arroyo with humorous message about snooze and microwave minutes.

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    marianne eliza
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Back when frozen meals had to be baked in an oven, you had time to go do something else while you waited.

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    In today’s world, they believe marketing is everything. “For some restaurants, the name alone can be the key to success.

    For others, it might be unique branding, unforgettable customer experiences, or even something as simple and fun as creative, funny signs that make people smile.”

    #16

    El Arroyo sign with humorous text about cookies and performance improvement.

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    Riley Quinn
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Liars. They collect cookies to sell our info to mailing companies, and we are forever inundated with garbage popping up on our computers. At least an edible cookie tastes good and you can walk off the calories afterwards.

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    #17

    Funny El Arroyo sign about online shopping, featuring humorous text and Texas outline.

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    to old to care
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    this is so true, scary - but true.

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    #18

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about a parrot speaking, highlighting its iconic reputation in Austin.

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    Paul P.
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Shouldn't that be "Polly not OK"? Just sayin'.

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    Ultimately, they believe that being genuine and understanding your audience is what matters most. Whether it’s a simple, heartfelt name or over-the-top humor plastered on the walls, the key is to make a connection.

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    “It’s not just about food; it’s about creating an experience that sticks with people long after they’ve left your restaurant.”

    #19

    El Arroyo sign humorously states: "I'm stayin home today, I have mood poisoning."

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    Nea
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is new for me! Definitely adding to my vocabulary.

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    #20

    Funny El Arroyo sign about dry clean only shirt learning harsh truths.

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    Der Kommissar
    Community Member
    11 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    " This shirt is "dry clean only", which means,,, its dirty " - Mitch Hedberg

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    #21

    El Arroyo sign with humorous text about a roach.

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    to old to care
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    or Spiders, those guys are just as fast.

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    That’s exactly what El Arroyo has mastered with their now-iconic funny signs. While their food might be what brings customers through the door, it’s their clever and witty one-liners that leave a lasting impression.

    These signs aren’t just funny—they’re a brilliant way to connect with customers on a personal level, giving them something to laugh about, relate to, and even share online.

    #22

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about scrolling to select birth year.

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    Oerff On Tour
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    What strikes me the most, is that sites that have an age restriction, have the date-of-birth scrolly thing starting with 2024. First off, babies don't know how to use a computer. Second, shouldn't they start with the minimum age for the site?

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    #23

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about falling apart and tacos.

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    Probably Aoife
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Your insides are still delicious, even when they're messy... >:D

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    Whether it’s a heartfelt story behind a restaurant’s name or a dose of humor that keeps people talking, the takeaway is the same—find a way to stand out and connect. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a place that can serve up both good food and a good laugh?

    #25

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message: "CLEANING IS JUST PUTTING STUFF IN LESS OBVIOUS PLACES."

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    #26

    El Arroyo sign with a humorous message about rolling an ankle.

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    MED71
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Lmao! Lil pee came out! 😊 Fun...brb

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    #27

    El Arroyo sign reads, "Dear Naps, I'm sorry I was a jerk to you as a kid," humorously lamenting past decisions.

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    on second thought....
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Those countries where siestas are common really nailed it!

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    Which of these posts made you laugh the most? Did any of them remind you of a funny moment or a sign you’ve seen in real life? Tell us your favorites in the comments below!

    #28

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about getting through the day without a nap.

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    Probably Aoife
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have napped maybe, like, twice in my whole life (discounting when I was a tot). So thank you ;D

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    #29

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about running out of passwords.

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    JK
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My password list looks like a CVS receipt.

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    #30

    El Arroyo sign with a humorous message about jogging and smiling in Austin, Texas.

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    #31

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about cheese measurement.

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    Owen
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You're edam right. [Sorry everyone]

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    #32

    El Arroyo sign with funny message about being ready for bed.

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    Ashlisha
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Gotta give your dogs a chance to get of the couch.

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    #33

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about unintentionally doing stunts.

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    #34

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about calories reading "I think you mean delicious points."

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    Ashlisha
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I like conservation of mass. This donut weighs like nothing so it must be the heavy water making me fat.

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    #37

    El Arroyo sign with funny mom-related quote in Austin.

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    Nuku Nyara
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Or your wife can't find it for you.🤣

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    #38

    El Arroyo sign humorously states, "If cats could text you they wouldn't."

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    #40

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message: "The me that buys groceries & the me that cooks are two different ppl."

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    Space Invader
    Community Member
    11 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And the me that eats hates both of them...

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    #41

    El Arroyo sign with a humorous message about treating people by not talking to them.

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    Khavrinen
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And yet so many of them fail to take the hint.

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    #42

    El Arroyo sign with funny quote about squirrels acting inexperienced.

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    JessieJ&LilyLovebug
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "Ha!...did I leave the gas on? No, I'm a f*****g squirrel!"

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    #43

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message: "Clapping is literally hitting yourself cause you like something."

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    Ugh, do I have to?
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We repeatedly high-five ourselves to congratulate someone else

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    #44

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about sneezing and farting simultaneously.

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    Tostones
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ok, that’s a new one and it’s brilliant!

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    #45

    El Arroyo sign reads humorous message about inventing a Sunday without Monday.

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    Everest Hernandez He/She/They
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They're trying to start 4 day weeks for schools, so something ¯⁠\⁠_⁠(⁠ツ⁠)⁠_⁠/⁠¯

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    #46

    El Arroyo sign humorously lists the 5 stages of waking up: denial, anger, bargaining, acceptance.

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    Kelly H. Wilder
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    /Gen: I'm missing one. Is the miscount part of the joke, or am I just missing it altogether?

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    #48

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message, "No matter how kind you are, German children are kinder."

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    JessieJ&LilyLovebug
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And trusted with the real Kinder Eggs...we Americans can't be trusted not to eat the toy...and honestly, I don't doubt it.

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    #49

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message: “I forgot how expensive outside was.”

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    WindySwede
    Community Member
    11 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Have you used Internet lately? 😶

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    #50

    El Arroyo sign humor: "The main function of the little toe is to make sure all the furniture is in place."

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    #51

    El Arroyo sign with a humorous message about missing TV shows in childhood, capturing the best sign moments.

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    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    No fooling here, youngsters. TV shows used to have 39 episodes per year and were replaced with another show during the 13 weeks of summer. No reruns, no syndication, no streaming. And it was all uphill - both ways.

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    #52

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about the future leadership being homeschooled by day drinkers.

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    Bob Brooce
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Are we going to throw a 20th birthday party for this sign next month?

    #53

    Funny El Arroyo sign about people's survival instincts and toilet paper in Austin, Texas.

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    #54

    El Arroyo sign reads "Introverts unite! Separately! In our own homes," humorously highlighting introvert lifestyle.

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    kitten levels tokyo
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Introverts: We like people, we just don't want to be around them much.

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    #55

    El Arroyo sign with the humorous message: "I just know I’ll die trying to pet something I shouldn’t."

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    Angela C
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If not friend then why friend shaped?

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    #56

    Humorous El Arroyo sign with a witty message about aging like milk, not wine.

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    #58

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about Santa visiting once a year.

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    Geoffrey Scott
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And at night, so you don't have to see them.

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    #59

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about running out of coffee and using tequila instead.

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    Peppy
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    One tequila two tequila three tequila, floor!

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    #63

    El Arroyo sign with humorous quote about not going to bed angry and plotting revenge late.

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    JessieJ&LilyLovebug
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Who says I can't plot my revenge in my bed?

    #65

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about naming a baby and realizing dislikes.

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    kitten levels tokyo
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I like the method where you give the baby a classic name, a hippie name, and a Scottish Clan name. Like Elizabeth Rain Skullcracker Tokyo.

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    #66

    Sign at El Arroyo displaying witty message: "Common sense is like deodorant, those that need it most never use it."

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    #67

    El Arroyo sign humorous message about Netflix history and m****r studies.

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    kitten levels tokyo
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My Bored Panda comment history makes me look cynical and sarcastic.

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    #68

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about eating and shirts.

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    Rose the Cook
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    To be safe just never wear white while eating.

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    #70

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about Santa publishing his naughty list for meeting people.

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    #71

    Humorous El Arroyo sign about holding the fridge door open, seeking answers.

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    kitten levels tokyo
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm pretty sure in Texas there are little taco-type snacks called "Answers".

    #72

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message: "Always remember you're unique just like everyone else."

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    #75

    El Arroyo sign with humorous quote about Texas weather's unpredictability.

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    Kombatbunni
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Melbourne as well though these days it feels more like two..

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    #76

    El Arroyo sign displays "You're on mute" phrase, highlighting a popular saying of 2020.

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    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "Do you realize you're not on mute?" came in a close second.

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    #77

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message: "Feeling good about yourself? Have a kid draw a picture of you."

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    WindySwede
    Community Member
    11 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well, at least the German kids are Kinder? 🤷‍♂️

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    #78

    El Arroyo sign with funny message: "Easter egg hunts: Proof your kid can find things if they want to."

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    #79

    El Arroyo sign with humorous message about Earth's rotation in a street setting.

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    WindySwede
    Community Member
    11 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And a slight tilt makes my summer! 🌞

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    #80

    El Arroyo sign with a humorous message about rewatching firework videos.

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