If a guest's mood shifts suddenly, what should you consider?

When a guest's mood shifts suddenly, considering that they may be intoxicated is crucial for a server. Sudden changes in mood can be a clear indicator that a guest has consumed an excessive amount of alcohol, which can lead to a range of behaviors from jovial to irritable. Understanding this helps you to approach the situation with care and professionalism.

Recognizing the signs of intoxication allows you to ensure the safety and comfort of both the guest and other patrons. It also prompts you to monitor their drink service closely and potentially intervene if necessary, such as offering water or cutting off additional alcohol service. This is important not only for the well-being of the guest but also for the restaurant’s compliance with alcohol service laws.

While factors like fatigue, distraction, and waiting for food can also affect how a guest behaves, they typically do not warrant the same level of concern regarding safety and responsibility that intoxication does.