When should you suggest drinks from the bar to guests?

Suggesting drinks from the bar upon greeting the table is a best practice for enhancing the dining experience. This approach allows servers to engage with guests early in their visit, creating an opportunity to set the tone for their meal. By presenting drink options right away, servers can help guests start their experience on a positive note, providing suggestions that might complement their meal choices. This initial interaction can also lead to increased sales, as guests may be more inclined to order a drink when it's presented to them early in the dining experience.

Introducing drinks earlier allows the server to assess the guests' preferences and make tailored recommendations, demonstrating attentive service. Typically, guests appreciate having drink options presented before food orders are made as it gives them time to consider their choices. This method also helps in setting the pace of the meal, as it can encourage guests to relax and enjoy a beverage while they review the menu.