Most of my experience was with food court type restaurants and other fast food establishments at Eaton Centre (among other places). After a while, I gave up on the sit down restaurants and switched to water when my beverage of choice (unsweet tea) was unavailable. I did have to make do with canned soft drinks at a bar/restaurant on Dixie Road (don't remember name).
Had Alexander Keith for the first time at the Elephant and Castle. It was great but, unfortunately, refills were quite dear.
The weather in this part of the world (FL) is quite warm at this time of year It is not unusual for my wife and I to ask the witress to bring a pitcher of tea to the table. It is usually gone by the end of the meal.
Tnx for the tip about cold tea and Asian restaurants. I will try it on my next visit.
Originally Posted by CXYYZ
2) I have heard a few waiters over the years recommend to American customers that they ask for 'cold tea' instead of 'iced tea.' Except at Asian restaurants during the summer months, I can't think of anywhere where I've even seen unsweetened iced tea featured or on a beverage listing though.
2) I'm not sure where you were eating, but refills are free at most mid-range sit down restaurants in Toronto. Some restaurants do charge but they are definitely the minority, in my experience. Fast food places, however, often do charge, but I don't think many people complain. Drink cups are big enough for most - it's what we're used to.
3) Again, I'm not sure where you were eating. In food courts you might see canned pop because of space restrictions or other considerations. Otherwise, it's almost always fountain pop. However, you'll find that many authentic Asian restaurants do serve cans because of a lack of demand to justify the fountains, and also because it's pretty much expected by customers in those establishments.