When must food service be offered by restaurant licensees alongside alcoholic beverages?

The requirement for restaurant licensees to offer food service alongside alcoholic beverages until 10 p.m. is significant in the context of Arizona's liquor laws. This regulation ensures that patrons have access to food while consuming alcohol, which can help mitigate the risks associated with excessive drinking and promote responsible alcohol consumption. Keeping food available until 10 p.m. aligns with the idea of a restaurant being a place for dining as well as socializing, allowing for a balanced experience for customers who may be enjoying the establishment late into the evening.

Offering food all day or only during lunch hours would not fulfill the proactive role that food service plays in alcohol safety policies. Allowing service until midnight does not align with the state's regulations and could lead to violations. Thus, the stipulation to provide food service until 10 p.m. helps maintain the integrity of dining experiences while promoting responsible drinking habits within regulated hours.