A long line of eager customers gathered in Billesley today to snap up a 20p cone of chips at Hot Spot, a popular Birmingham chip shop. The bargain, which revived memories of simpler times, was the brainchild of Nassar “Uncle Nas” Iqbal, who aims to share a taste of the ‘good old days’ with the community.
Located on Yardley Wood Road, Hot Spot has been serving locals since 2004 but recently skyrocketed in popularity thanks to viral TikTok videos. Uncle Nas created the 20p plain chips deal to offer youngsters from nearby schools—as well as the whole neighbourhood—a chance to enjoy chips drenched with salt and vinegar, just like kids did in the 1980s.
Eighteen-year-old Hanifa Rice, who arrived over an hour early with a friend after spotting the trend on TikTok, said, “I saw it on TikTok and thought, since it’s nearby, it’d just be fun to come along!” When asked if chips are outdated with so many trendy food options like peri peri chicken and gourmet burgers, Hanifa replied, “I love going to the chippy with my friends, but it really depends on what everyone feels like.”
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Uncle Nas greeted visitors outside the shop, emerging through a big balloon arch and saying, “I’m just like you, I just got on TikTok too!” His chip shop combines nostalgic charm with modern touches, including a self-service machine, colourful milkshake ingredients, and an ice cream machine from Mr Tee, another local TikTok sensation.
Speaking to BirminghamLive, Uncle Nas admitted feeling a bit stressed but optimistic: “We bought extra potatoes from my supplier, Copes Potatoes, who’s been with me for years and supplies the best ones. I’m not making money today—I just want to bring back memories. Follow me on TikTok and you’ll hear what the young people are saying. I’m teaching kids what it was like before all the fancy options.
“Back then, fish was a luxury. But at lunchtime, we’d sneak out to get chips loaded with extra salt and vinegar—they didn’t charge extra for that, so we asked for loads. Anything free!”