From Tap to Table: Why We Drink Differently at Restaurants

It’s so common to sit down at a restaurant and be asked, “tap or bottled,” we almost answer without thinking. But if you default to ordering tap, do you really know what’s in your glass? A recent national survey reveals surprising truths about how Americans choose and trust drinking water when dining out. The results might make you rethink the next time you say, “just tap.”

The Tap Water Trust Divide

More often than not, people feel a slight hesitation when drinking water straight from the tap at home. Yet, when dining out, many of us choose tap water without thinking twice. This stark contrast highlights a shift in perception—somehow, the tap water at restaurants feels different from the one at home. But is it?

• 86% of Americans opt for tap water at restaurants, while 57% rarely or never drink tap water at home.
• Midwest diners are most likely to order tap water (92%) of all U.S. regions, but the West (86%), South (84%), and Northeast (80%) follow closely behind.
• Gen X and Baby Boomers are more likely to drink tap water (88%) than Millennials and Gen Z (82%)

A Shift in Perception

Here’s where things get interesting: diners seem to trust tap water at restaurants more than the water they drink at home, even though it often comes from the same municipal water supply.

• Half of those who order tap water at restaurants do so out of habit, without any knowledge of the quality or safety of what they’re drinking.
• 86% of Americans drank tap water the last time they dined out. But at home, only 16% drink tap water regularly, while 57% say they rarely or never do.
• Younger diners, especially Millennials and Gen Z, are more likely to choose bottled or filtered water at restaurants.
• 58% of restaurant-goers assume tap water served at restaurants is safe to drink, but the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) water quality report confirms significant water contamination issues across the U.S., such as lead and PFAS (forever chemicals).

The Case for Filtration: Every Glass, Every Time

Just because water looks clear and tastes fresh doesn’t mean it’s free from contaminants. In fact, harmful chemicals like lead and PFAS are colorless, tasteless and odorless, and can be present even in water that appears pristine.

• Ask to H2KNOW: Don’t hesitate to ask about the water source and filtration at your favorite restaurants.
• Take Control at Home: Get a third-party certified water filtration solution for safer, cleaner water you can count on with every drop.
• Stay Informed: Utilities publish local water reports publicly, so you can easily check yours to understand what’s in your water.

Looking to learn more about drinking water and dining out?
Learn more in this Q&A with Culligan Head of Science Eric Roy.

With decades of expertise and unparalleled service to truly understand what’s in your water, Culligan offers industry-leading solutions for homes and businesses alike. Whether you’re exploring a comprehensive filtration system, a pitcher or even a commercial-grade solution, our teams are here to help you better understand your water and ensure every glass you drink is safer, cleaner and great tasting.

Think twice about water quality the next time you’re seated for a great meal and explore Culligan’s wide range of water filtration solutions today.

Survey Methodology
Source: Culligan International // 1,509 U.S. General Population Adults Who Have Dined Out at Sit-Down Restaurants in the Last Month // May 2025