A patron has consumed several drinks and is showing signs of intoxication. As the server approaches to check on them, the patron quickly hides their last drink under the table. What is the best course of action for the server to take to manage this situation effectively?

Question: A patron has consumed several drinks and is showing signs of intoxication. As the server approaches to check on them, the patron quickly hides their last drink under the table. What is the best course of action for the server to take to manage this situation effectively?

Answer options:

• Demand to see the drink under the table and threaten to call security if the patron doesn't comply. ✅ Serve the patron a glass of water and discreetly remove the hidden alcoholic beverage, then suggest they should take a break from drinking.
• Ignore the hidden drink for the moment and focus on observing the patron for further signs of intoxication.
• Ask a colleague to distract the patron while the server removes the drink from under the table.

Correct answer: Serve the patron a glass of water and discreetly remove the hidden alcoholic beverage, then suggest they should take a break from drinking.

Explanation: When an intoxicated patron attempts to conceal a drink, the server must intervene to prevent further consumption while also managing the situation discreetly and professionally. Offering water serves as a diversion and a responsible service measure, while discreetly removing the drink directly addresses the hidden alcohol without causing unnecessary confrontation. Demanding to see the drink or threatening security can escalate the situation unnecessarily. Ignoring it risks greater intoxication. Distracting and removing is acceptable only if the server is actively involved in the removal; a colleague covertly removing it might be seen as deceptive.