What should a server do if a guest appears to be intoxicated?

When a guest appears to be intoxicated, the appropriate action is to refuse service and offer alternative beverages. This response is crucial for ensuring the safety of the guest and others. Serving alcohol to someone who is already intoxicated increases the risk of accidents and potential harm, both to the individual and to others in the establishment. By refusing service, the server is acting in compliance with responsible beverage service practices and promoting a safe environment.

Offering alternative beverages is a proactive step that can help rehydrate the guest or provide them with a non-alcoholic option to help mitigate the effects of intoxication. This approach shows care for the guest's well-being while also adhering to legal requirements related to the sale of alcohol.

While encouraging the guest to eat food or serving them water may seem helpful, these actions alone do not address the immediate concern of preventing further alcohol consumption and ensuring the guest does not engage in risky behaviors. Alerting nearby customers is generally not an appropriate response, as it can cause unnecessary alarm and distress. Therefore, the focus should be on refusing additional alcohol service and providing safe alternatives.