answer: #Person1# explains to #Person2# the cold dishes are served first because people usually talk more and eat less at the beginning of the dinner. But #Person2# is full before the hot courses are served.
documents: #Person1#: Here are your cold dishes, sir.
  #Person2#: Thank you. I wonder why it Chinese dinner always starts with cold dishes instead of hot courses. Could you explain that to me?
  #Person1#: Certainly, sir. It's a custom in our country to serve cold dishes first as they have been prepared before hand.
  #Person2#: Oh, I see. The chefs in your country are just in the habit of preparing cold dishes first.
  #Person1#: I'm afraid that's not exactly right, sir. Chinese people usually regard the dinner party as an occasion for a friendly chat.
  #Person2#: Yes, I quite agree. But what does that have to do with serving cold dishes first?
  #Person1#: Well, people usually talk more and eat less at the beginning of the dinner. Therefore, if hot courses were served they would get cold very quickly.
  #Person2#: I see, but the problem is that I'm already full when it comes to the wonderful hot courses. And I often miss the chances to enjoy many Chinese dishes.