Crossword Genius

Appreciate a couple of drinks when starting a meal (7,2)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

digging in

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'starting a meal' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are present participle verbs, I cannot see how they can define each other.

'appreciate a couple of drinks' is the wordplay.
'a couple of drinks' means two substitutions for 'drink'.
'appreciate' becomes 'dig' (to dig something is to appreciate it).
'drink' becomes 'gin' (gin is an alcoholic drink).
'drink' becomes 'gin' (gin is an alcoholic drink).
'dig'+'gin'+'gin'='DIGGING IN'

'when' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for digging in that I've seen before include "Creating a defensive position - eating vigorously" , "Beginning to eat" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.