A beloved fish and chip eatery is taking a trip down memory lane by offering a classic menu item for just 20p.
Nassar Iqbal, affectionately known as ‘Uncle Nas’ in the Birmingham area, is a well-established figure in the city’s dining scene. After operating a restaurant in the vicinity, he launched Hot Spot in Billesley in 2004.
In a bid to engage with younger audiences on TikTok, he is extending a special offer of 20p chips, prepared in the traditional manner with only salt and vinegar, aiming to provide a familiar and affordable after-school treat for the youth.
On January 14, between 3pm and 5pm, he will be serving up hot servings of chips for just 20p, hoping to evoke nostalgia for older patrons and create a novel experience for the younger generation.
In a conversation with Birmingham Live, Uncle Nas shared, “The younger generation following us on TikTok may not realize that chips were once priced at 20p. In the 80s, we used to sneak out of school during lunch breaks, head to the chip shop, and relish 20p chips with extra salt and vinegar.”
“Kids today haven’t had that same experience, so I decided to reintroduce it to bring back memories and offer them that experience.”
While maintaining chips at 20p indefinitely is not sustainable for a business in 2026 due to escalating costs impacting chip shops nationwide, Nas is leveraging his social media presence to attract new audiences. Hot Spot has garnered over a million likes on TikTok and amassed 29.8k followers.
“We initially joined TikTok to connect with a broader audience, but it evolved into something more significant,” Nas remarked. “In a time of negativity and Islamophobia, I wanted to spread positive messages within the community.”
Through their social media platforms, Hot Spot showcases stories of the chip shop and its dedicated customers. Despite the bygone era of budget-friendly meals, Uncle Nas remains committed to supporting the local community.
“I understand that eventually I will have to raise prices; it’s a competitive market out there. However, I am striving to keep prices as affordable as possible,” he emphasized.