What does the term "over-serving" refer to in bartending?

The term "over-serving" in bartending specifically refers to the act of serving alcohol to a customer who is already intoxicated. This practice is concerning because it can lead to various negative consequences, including increased risk of accidents, impaired judgment, and potential legal issues for the establishment and bartender. Bartenders are trained to recognize the signs of intoxication and are responsible for ensuring they do not serve additional alcohol to patrons who have already consumed enough to be impaired. This not only protects the patrons but also upholds the establishment’s reputation and legal obligations regarding alcohol service.

In contrast, serving a drink or checking ID does not inherently involve intoxication and is a standard practice in bartending. Serving drinks with less alcohol does not relate to the concept of over-serving, rather, it could be a strategy for crafting lighter cocktails. Therefore, understanding the implications of over-serving is crucial for responsible alcohol service in any bartending environment.