What beverage should servers recommend to accompany spicy dishes?

When it comes to pairing beverages with spicy dishes, the main goal is to provide a refreshing and cooling effect that can help to balance the intense flavors and heat. Sparkling water is particularly well-suited for this purpose because it is effervescent, which can cleanse the palate between bites, allowing the diner to fully appreciate the flavors of the dish without being overwhelmed by the spiciness. The carbonation in sparkling water can also help to alleviate the heat without adding any additional flavors that might clash with the dish, making it an excellent choice for spicy cuisine.

While other beverages like dark beer or sweet tea might have their own merits in different contexts, they could potentially amplify the spiciness or introduce flavors that compete with the dish. Chardonnay, while a versatile wine, may not provide the same level of palate cleansing as sparkling water does when it comes to spicy foods.