Do the French really hate ice?
Hate is strong. The French position is that ice is an ingredient you did not order, added in quantity, which then replaces the thing you did order. Put like that, it is difficult to argue with, and I have tried.
Why do Americans use so much of it?
Because cold is part of the expected sensation, and because refills make dilution irrelevant — if the glass is topped up for free, the ice melting is not a loss. The two habits are internally consistent; they just do not survive contact with each other.
Is this the same as the water thing?
Related. French restaurants bring a carafe of tap water without being asked, and nobody expects it to be cold. If you want cold water in France you are generally buying a bottle, which is a separate conversation — and the bottles have their own hierarchy.
Questions, answered
Why don’t the French use ice in drinks?
Because ice is thought to dilute the drink and dull its flavour. French drinks are served cool rather than cold, and if ice appears it is usually one or two cubes rather than a full glass.
Do French restaurants serve tap water?
Yes. A carafe of tap water is brought free on request and is entirely normal, though it will not usually be iced.
Can you ask for ice in France?
Yes — ask for glaçons. You will generally get a few cubes rather than a filled glass, and nobody will be offended, though someone may comment.
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