Do you place your napkin on your lap?

[WhatNextNowForDS]

Just that.
Been out for a few meals this year and it seems I am uncommon in this, although it was always what i was taught. (Overseas)

Is it not a done thing in the uk?

Napkins aren't placed in the lap to CATCH food. It's the most discreet place to put it so that other diners aren't succumbed to having to look at your filthy napkin after you gently dabbed your chops.

Another one here who is wondering where else you would put it.

I mean, like most, we don't have napkins at home / everyday use, but if your question is "When you are out for a meal and there is a napkin, where do you put it?", then yes, you put it on your lap. I am British, and that is the only place you'd be expected to put it.

Cloth napkins: yes
Paper napkins: no

I'm with your dh. I associate napkins with people who scoop all their food with a fork. Or eating pizza, chips or burgers with hands, not a formal situation. If I am eating properly at a table with a knife and fork I don't find I need one.
If there is a fabric napkin a restaurant, I might put it on my lap or leave it on the table depending which is more convenient.

I had no idea this was considered to be a class matter. Of course the napkin goes on your lap , where on earth would you put it otherwise ?

On the table….

What an absolutely pompous and shallow thread.
"Where else would one possibly place it?"

There are terrible things happening all over the world and this has had five pages of responses.

I have a few suggestions of where one can place a napkin.

Mate, what the fuck is this salty word salad?
You do realize you are on a chat forum? Surely there are plenty of deeper topics you could contribute to?

I never do - and I live overseas. From memory my late DM used to, but I don't recall seeing anyone else do it.

Discreetly! I mean if you get a bit of bone or something that you can't swallow.

However I always assumed it was for catching food. Never thought that you could use it when on lap. Interesting.

Don't worry I haven't been anywhere fancy in a really long time!

It is meant to go on your lap. It's standard table etiquette, like forks being on the left hand side of the plate and knives being on the right.

You are supposed to put it on your lap after you have ordered food but before the food arrives.

Get lost and read a philosophy book you twit.

Of course. That's where it goes!

A personal bête noire is people who blow their feckin’ nose with their napkin at the end of the meal. I feel physical rage at those revolting creatures.

My reply was meant for this. Apologies @Tribblesarelovely .

Yes I do, I think most people do.

No