How long should onion strings be held before serving?

Onion strings should be held for up to 3 hours before serving to maintain their ideal texture and flavor. Holding them within this timeframe allows them to remain crispy and fresh for customers, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. Holding times beyond this limit can lead to sogginess or a decline in quality, as the moisture can adversely affect the crispness of the onion strings. This practice aligns with food safety and quality standards in the restaurant industry, making it essential for managers to ensure that food items are held for appropriate durations before they are served.