A patron demands a drink, stating, 'I know the owner, and he said I could have anything I want.' You have identified this patron as intoxicated. What is your correct response?

Question: A patron demands a drink, stating, 'I know the owner, and he said I could have anything I want.' You have identified this patron as intoxicated. What is your correct response?

Answer options:

• Serve the drink, but immediately inform the owner of the situation. ✅ Politely explain that you cannot serve them due to their intoxication, and refer them to the manager, regardless of their claim.
• Tell them to call the owner to confirm their story.
• Offer them a non-alcoholic beverage and tell them to calm down.

Correct answer: Politely explain that you cannot serve them due to their intoxication, and refer them to the manager, regardless of their claim.

Explanation: A server's legal obligation to refuse service to an intoxicated patron overrides any claims of knowing the owner or VIP status. Explaining the refusal based on visible intoxication and referring them to a manager is the appropriate professional and legal response. Serving the drink (A) is a serious violation. Telling them to call the owner (C) puts the burden on the patron and delays resolution. Offering a non-alcoholic drink (D) is a good step but must be paired with a firm refusal of alcohol service.