In Asian countries where rice is the staple diet, it is a common practice for restaurants to serve rice in covered bowls or containers. This is mainly to keep the rice warm.
Of course, rice is served or offered only when you order set dishes or a combination of dishes and not ala carte.
I have eaten at restaurants in Myanmar and Indonesia where the rice is served in lovely baskets either for sharing or individual portions.
Korean eating places usually serve rice in metal containers that are not hot to the touch but the rice is kept warm.
