What should you do if a customer appears overly intoxicated?

When a customer appears overly intoxicated, the appropriate response is to refuse further service and offer water or food instead. This approach prioritizes the safety and well-being of the customer, as well as the responsibility of the establishment.

Refusing service demonstrates a clear recognition of the signs of intoxication, which can help prevent potential harm to the individual and others around them. Offering water or food is a practical way to mitigate the effects of alcohol and support hydration or absorb alcohol in their system. This option aligns with responsible serving practices and legal regulations, which often require servers to intervene when patrons exhibit signs of excessive drinking.

In contrast, encouraging another drink would exacerbate the situation and could lead to dangerous consequences. Allowing the individual to stay and socialize without intervention fails to address the issue of their intoxication and could lead to further problems. Suggesting that they can drink more slowly does not sufficiently acknowledge their current state and could give the impression that more drinking is acceptable. Hence, the best approach is to take a proactive stance by refusing further service.