Which method can be used to assess a patron's intoxication level?

Assessing a patron's intoxication level is best accomplished by tracking the number of drinks they have consumed. This method gives a clear quantitative measure of alcohol intake, which is directly related to intoxication. The more drinks a person has had, the higher the potential for impaired judgment, coordination, and other signs of intoxication. This method provides a straightforward and objective metric, allowing staff to gauge whether a patron may be over the legal limit for alcohol consumption.

While observing whether patrons are ordering food, asking about their weekend plans, or monitoring social interactions can provide some insight into a patron's state, these methods are more subjective and less reliable. For instance, not all patrons order food when drinking, and conversations about weekend plans may not reflect their current level of intoxication. Similarly, social interactions can vary greatly among individuals and settings, making them an insufficient measure for assessing alcohol levels. Therefore, tracking the number of drinks consumed is the most effective and logical approach for determining a patron's intoxication level.