Paul,
I agree with you - and I also raise the question of:-
Me: 'Waiter, I'd like to order a pot of tea, with cup, saucer, spoon, sugar bowl, and jug of milk please'
Waiter:'Certainly sir. That'll be $1.50 plus 18% gratuity making a total of $1.77'
Waiter arrives back 5 minutes later with all the above.
or:-
Me: 'Waiter. I'd like a glass of that vinage champagne from that bottle on the other side of the bar please'
Waiter: 'Certainly sir, That'll be $20.00 plus 18% gratuity making a total of $23.60'
Waiter arrives back in 5 seconds with glass of champagne.
Hence, when we go some places in the US we are told 'We don't do pots of tea'.
Pete :o)