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Notes on a Napkin is where I share unfiltered musings from the messy, magical world of restaurants. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at what really goes on — the myths, the madness, the moments that matter — written by a self-taught restaurateur still figuring it all out.

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Every post lands straight in your inbox — no algorithms, no ads, no fluff. Expect candid reflections, industry truths, and the occasional rambling thought that wouldn’t fit anywhere else.

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This is more than a newsletter. It’s a seat at the table — a chance to connect with others who live, love, or are just curious about the restaurant world. Comment, share, or just quietly read along. All are welcome.

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Subscribe to Notes on a Napkin

Notes on a Napkin is a candid, irreverent dive into the realities of restaurant life, mixing industry truths with cultural commentary and a restaurateur’s POV of the beautiful chaos behind the scenes.

People

Dan O’Regan is the owner of BANK and Lapin, two Bristol restaurants blending contemporary cooking with a sense of place. A self-taught restaurateur, he writes candidly about the ups and downs of running restaurants and the moments that matter.