Why restaurants give you hot water — and why it's actually great

📅 9 May 2026 KAT'S TIP

You'll notice that most Chinese restaurants serve hot or warm water instead of cold. This comes from traditional Chinese medicine — hot water is believed to aid digestion and balance the body. Don't ask for ice; embrace it. Bonus: hot water is free everywhere, even on trains. Bring a small thermos and you'll never pay for drinks again.

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Why restaurants give you hot water — and why it's actually great

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