What does "sale of alcohol by the drink" mean?

The term "sale of alcohol by the drink" specifically refers to the practice of selling individual servings of alcoholic beverages that are consumed on the premises where they are sold. This concept highlights the idea of serving alcohol as part of a dining or social experience, such as in a bar, restaurant, or nightclub, where patrons can enjoy their drinks on-site.

This definition is distinct from other forms of alcohol sales, which may involve bulk transactions or takeout, as those do not fit the context of consuming alcohol in a social setting. Selling donated alcohol for charity and bulk quantities of alcohol relate to different commercial practices and regulations, and selling alcohol only for takeout does not involve the immediate consumption aspect that "by the drink" implies. Thus, option C captures the essence of the terminology accurately.