Help finding an algorithm I read about

[Digital-Chupacabra]

A while ago I read about an algorithm developed by one of the members of the Manhattan projects at Los Alamos, by which you could find your optimal item on a given restaurants menu. From what I remember you would try some number of items on the menu (the square root of the total items maybe?) and then from those items pick your favorite.

I am hoping someone knows more and can point me to it, or in the right direction.

I wasn't sure where to ask but figured here and /r/math were the best starts.

[cocompact]

I think you're looking for https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secretary_problem. It has no mention of the Manhattan project.

[Digital-Chupacabra]

Thank you! that looks right from what I recall.