How should alcoholic beverages be served to the table?

Serving alcoholic beverages from the right side of the table is a standard practice in fine dining and hospitality. This method ensures that the service is smooth and unobtrusive for the guests. In many dining settings, serving from the right side allows servers to maintain eye contact and engage the guests without reaching across them, which can be disruptive.

Additionally, delivering drinks to the correct guests enhances the dining experience, as it shows attention to detail and ensures that each guest receives the beverage they ordered. This practice also helps to avoid confusion and mix-ups at the table, contributing to a more organized and pleasant service experience.

The other options may not align with established serving protocols that prioritize guest comfort and service efficiency. For example, serving from the left, though sometimes acceptable in certain contexts, does not adhere to the preferred standard in most dining settings. Immediate service after mixing may compromise the quality or temperature of the drink, while only serving upon request lacks proactivity and attentiveness, which are key in providing exceptional service.