The reputed Italian restaurant chain in Japan, Saizeriya, is currently making waves with questions surrounding their carbonated water policy. As customers started noticing that at some locations carbonated water appears to be free, it became a buzzy topic on social media, prompting a response from the company's representative. The PR official confirmed that indeed, Saizeriya now offers complimentary carbonated water at their outlets.

In Japan, the serving of free tap water at restaurants is a frequently undertaken practice, reflecting the nation's hospitality culture. Altering these norms (especially when it comes to offering a previously paid-for item like carbonated water for free) can generate significant public interest.

In the US or EU, majority of restaurants already provide free tap water, but charging for carbonated or mineral water is a common practice. Switching from paid to free offerings would also stir public attention, but might not make headlines as it has in Japan.