Why are drinks usually served cold?

Question

I'm really curious as to why certain foods and drinks are usually served cold instead of room temperature. Not drinks that last longer cold - like dairy. But why are soda and water served cold?

Answer 1

It's typically a cultural tradition.  Water is invariably served with ice in the USA.  I just did a search and find Hong Kong serves hot water while charging extra for ice.  I find that amusing.  I suppose ice DOES cost more to maintain than straight water from the tap.  Americans don't even think about it and are just accustomed to having ice water.

 

Occasionally the water is merely chilled and decanted without ice.  I've been to up-scale restaurants and observed this procedure.  I think this falls under the category of snobbery in an attempt to justify outrageous prices.  Consumers can be peculiar in many ways.  My only requirement is lemon!  I love lemon water.

 

I stopped drinking soda long ago.  It also comes with ice.  My recollection is that cold soda DOES taste better than warm soda.  This might have something to do with CO2 solubility as a function of temperature.  I certainly think soda tastes better from glass than aluminum can.  I'm convinced a voltaic cell exists between my metal fillings and the can which affects the taste.

 

Finally a fun thermodynamic fact:

 

Q: Which is colder at a table

1. Your paper napkin
2. Your silverware

A:  They are the SAME temperature (room temperature).  It's just that metal conducts heat far better and is PULLING heat from your fingertips.  So now you know ;-)