Muslim-Owned Chip Shop in Liverpool Stayed Open to Serve Free Christmas Meals to The Community

Liverpool has always been celebrated for its vibrant culture, iconic waterfront, and, of course, its legendary fish and chips. But one local chippy turned Christmas Day into something truly special, not just for locals, but also for Muslim travellers seeking a warm, welcoming experience during the festive season.

Portland’s Fish & Chips, located on Sefton Street in Brunswick, opened its doors on Christmas Day from 11 am to 5 pm for the second year in a row. Owner Mubinul Hoque and his dedicated team offered free hearty meals to those who needed them most, including NHS staff, carers, emergency workers, older members of the community, vulnerable individuals, and anyone spending Christmas alone.

Mubinul, 36, from Wavertree, told the Liverpool Echo that giving back was part of his religious and personal beliefs. “We give back, and we do a lot of charities. Christmas Day was one of those days we wouldn’t celebrate ourselves, so we thought, "Why not give back to the community?”

About Portland’s Fish & Chips

Image credit: Portlands Fish & Chips | Official Facebook

Since taking ownership in February 2023, Mubinul has transformed Portland’s into more than just a traditional fish and chip shop. The shop became known for its freshly prepared fish, locally sourced when possible, and a menu that balanced classic British favourites with generous portions and friendly service. Visitors enjoyed chunky cod fish fingers, fish and chip bars, battered sausages, and hand‑cut chips, served with free tea and coffee on Christmas Day, ensuring guests felt warm and welcomed during the chilly winter afternoon.

Image credit: Portlands Fish & Chips | Official Facebook

The shop’s interior reflected a community‑focused atmosphere, with staff known for their warmth and willingness to chat with visitors. For Muslim travellers, Portland’s provided a rare chance to experience authentic British comfort food in a welcoming environment, even on a day that is not traditionally celebrated in Islam.

Image credit: Portlands Fish & Chips | Official Facebook

Last year’s Christmas initiative had already touched many hearts. Mubinul shared, “Even a five or ten‑minute chat can make someone’s day. The response we got last year was amazing, emotional even. It was a real eye‑opener.” In 2025, he promised to make it bigger and better, ensuring even more people felt included and cared for.

Beyond Christmas, Portland has been deeply involved in the community. Mubinul’s charitable efforts included sponsoring the Nicosia Juniors U7 football team, supporting local food drives, and hosting small community events throughout the year. His commitment to giving back reflected the shop’s broader mission: to serve the community as much as it serves food.

For Muslim travellers exploring Liverpool, Portland’s Fish & Chips was a heartwarming example of local hospitality. Enjoying local customs and community‑focused events like this offered a unique cultural experience, plus, it was a delicious chance to try traditional British fish and chips in a welcoming environment.

HalalZilla tips: Even though Christmas isn’t a Muslim holiday, participating in community events like this can offer meaningful cultural insights and a warm, memorable experience.

Halal food spots in Liverpool

Image credit: Tom Fisk | Canva Pro

Liverpool’s culinary landscape also reflected its multicultural spirit, making it a friendly city for Muslim travellers. The city offered a variety of halal and Muslim-owned food spots, particularly around the city centre and Bold Street. Visitors could enjoy Lebanese and Middle Eastern dishes at Bakchich Lebanese Restaurant and Fattoush Restaurant, both serving fresh halal options like shawarma, mezze, and grilled platters. Gulf House Restaurant also offered authentic Middle Eastern dishes, while Elif Turkish BBQ Restaurant, Shiraz BBQ, and Anar Turkish BBQ Restaurant provided generous halal grilled meals. For South Asian and casual dining, popular options included Pshdar Kurdish Restaurant, Lazeez Restaurant, KO Grill, Noor Kitchen and Takeaway, Real Taste Kurdish Restaurant, and Aladdin Arabian Food. Travellers were advised to confirm halal certification with the staff, especially when trying new dishes or local favourites.

Prayer spots in Liverpool

Image credit: Mike N | Canva Pro

Liverpool was also well-equipped with prayer spaces for Muslim travellers. Historic and active mosques included the Abdullah Quilliam Society Mosque, England’s first mosque, now restored to serve as both a heritage site and place of worship; Al-Rahma Mosque, one of the city’s largest; and the Liverpool Mosque & Islamic Institute. Other local mosques, such as Masjid Omar Mukhtar and Bait‑ul‑Lateef Mosque, offered additional prayer facilities and community activities. These spaces allowed travellers to fulfil spiritual needs while exploring Liverpool’s cultural and culinary offerings.

For Muslim travellers visiting Liverpool, Portland’s Fish & Chips was a heartwarming example of local hospitality. Experiencing community-focused events like the free Christmas meals provided not only a chance to enjoy authentic British comfort food but also offered insight into the city’s welcoming spirit. Even though Christmas is not a Muslim holiday, participating in local events and exploring halal-friendly dining and prayer facilities made for a meaningful and memorable travel experience in Liverpool.