What to Do When You're Unsure About Serving Alcohol: A Server's Guide

What to Do When You're Unsure About Serving Alcohol: A Server's Guide

If you’re a server in Illinois — or anywhere, for that matter — it’s not uncommon to find yourself faced with a tricky question: what do you do when you’re unsure about serving a particular alcoholic beverage?

Hold On, Don’t Serve Yet!
Before you jump to conclusions or take on a risky situation, let’s unpack this a bit. You might be tempted to just go ahead and serve that suspicious-looking drink, but that could lead to a whole heap of trouble. What if it’s a concoction that violates your establishment's policies, or worse, the law? It’s a classic case of better safe than sorry.

The Golden Rule: Always Consult with a Manager

So, what’s the best move? The answer is clear: consult with a manager. This action not only shows your responsibility but also puts you on the right path, ensuring that you’re operating within the boundaries of local laws and your workplace policies.

Why is this so important? Well, managers are there for a reason! They are often trained to handle all sorts of queries and can provide crucial guidance when you feel stuck. They’ve got the experience and authority to clarify anything that’s murky—such as local serving laws, how to spot a potentially problematic customer, or even how to deal with a situation where a guest may be overserved.

And, here’s the thing, it’s not just about knowing what to serve. It’s about ensuring a safe atmosphere for everyone involved. Not only do you protect yourself, but you also shield the establishment from potential liability down the line. Responsible service isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a commitment to everyone in your establishment.

When the Borderlines Get Blurry

Imagine this: a customer requests a trendy new cocktail you’ve never seen before. It’s got some playful name like “Poison Apple” — sounds cool, right? But, hang on a sec! Before you start pouring, take a moment to reflect.

What if that drink has a hidden ingredient that could be problematic for some patrons? Or, maybe it violates the guidelines set forth by your establishment? This is where those training sessions you went through come back into play. You remember the protocols? This is the time to utilize that mental toolkit.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

In situations like these, remember, it’s also okay to ask your fellow servers for their insights. They might have experienced a similar case or know the ins and outs of specific drinks. However, in a pinch, don’t rely purely on their judgment. Always loop in your manager for the final word. It’s not about lacking confidence; it’s all about making sure you’re covered legally and ethically.

Here’s a funny thought: a bartender and a manager walk into a bar — okay, maybe that’s not a complete joke, but you see where I’m going with this! Teamwork and communication can prevent many disasters—especially when it involves alcohol!

Final Thoughts: Raising the Bar on Responsibility

Being proactive in seeking guidance showcases your commitment to excellence in the service industry. It’s not just about what you serve; it’s about how you serve it. When in doubt, hitting pause and checking in with a manager makes you a hero on the floor, ensuring that everyone enjoys their experience safely. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to feel like a superstar serving responsibly while navigating the complexities of alcohol service?

Whether your role is part-time, living the hustle while juggling classes, or you’re climbing the career ladder in hospitality, knowing where to turn for answers can make all the difference. Cheers to being a stellar server, committed to responsible and informed alcohol service!