Are restaurants required to serve tap water?

Question

I'm really only interested in answers that apply to the state of California. Thank you.

I went to a Mexican restaurant near a university yesterday and ordered food. I asked for a cup of water, because I didnt want to buy a soda. The lady behind the counter told me that they do not serve tap water, but I was free to buy a bottle of water.

I asked why they do this, and they answered that they are trying to curb underage drinking, because they are well known around campus for their deals on pitchers of beer. They dont want to give a water cup to someone who is underage, and then the person just uses it for the beer. So now they ID for cups. I asked her if I could show my ID (because I'm over 21) and then get a water cup, and she responded that I would get a cup, but they still no longer serve tap water.


Is this legal?? I dont care about PAYING for tap water, but in a place that serves alcohol, arent they required to provide water? Water bottles arent unlimited... tap water would be.

Answer 1

Frustrating, eh? Restraints are not required to serve water at all. It sounds like the woman could have handled it more tactfully and respectfully, but that is the way it is at that particular place. Places which do serve tap water generally don't charge for it, but many do not serve water unless asked. Also, of course, there is profit to be made from bottled water.

Answer 2

Sure, they don't have to "give" you anything. Most bars give away soda for desginated drivers, but restaurants could charge you for tap water if they wanted to because it costs them money to provide it (water bill, washing the cups, etc...)

Answer 3

the water that we use in this area is almost like bottled water but it is out of our soda fountain. Its healthier for you anyway.