The Southwest system seems like it might alleviate some of the cart issues - they get orders, prepare them in the galley, and bring out trays with 12 drinks at a time. I think it's faster, as they're able to do drink and snack services on <1 hour short flights that other carriers don't, or other carriers do a water-only service. I'm surprised other airlines haven't adopted this yet (plus I'm sure there's weight savings in not having the carts).

I believe in the early 2010s, United decided that in Y they would do drinks-only, and provide no snacks for domestic US flights, including transcons. While this has since changed, the move certainly soured me on them. I think I have an expectation for a drink service (particularly for the dehydration issues), and some sort of snacks on major carriers that are not ULCCs.