A special £1 chicken and chips deal at Hajees Original Fish & Chips in Birmingham drew a significant crowd, leading to an hour-long wait and chaotic scenes on the afternoon of March 15, 2024. This limited-time offer attracted interest online, racking up over 76,000 views on TikTok, with many customers hoping to relive nostalgic moments of cheaper meals.
Arriving at the takeaway around 15:00, just an hour before the promotion was set to expire, customers found the establishment buzzing with activity. Despite its one-star food hygiene rating, which could deter some, the enticing deal lured a diverse crowd eager to indulge in the bargain.
Inside, the cramped space was filled with customers eagerly awaiting their meals. Staff members were busy trying to process the rush, as patrons shuffled forward slowly, each moment heightening the anticipation. One father in line expressed a lack of concern for the deal itself, stating, “I’m just here for the kids.”
As the clock ticked closer to the end of the promotion, the situation became tense. After approximately 50 minutes of waiting, an employee announced, “We’re out of chicken,” at 15:50, just ten minutes before the offer concluded. This revelation led to a surge of frustration, particularly from a mother who had been waiting even longer. Her passionate response highlighted the growing unrest among those in line, as she argued that the deal should still be honoured.
Despite the chaos, one customer decided to stay the course. After waiting over an hour, the decision to continue was made easier by the prospect of finally enjoying the food. Once at the counter, the order included chips, a grilled chicken wrap, and a drink, totalling £8.
Returning to the vehicle, excitement turned to bemusement upon unveiling the meal. The chips were generously topped with mayonnaise, leading to an overwhelming quantity that made some of them difficult to enjoy. Nevertheless, a portion of the chips had a satisfying crunch and warm interior, providing a comforting experience reminiscent of traditional takeaway fare.
The wrap itself was satisfactory, comparable to a well-known fast-food chain. For those who appreciate such offerings, it proved to be a decent choice.
Reflecting on the overall experience, the customer concluded that while the £1 chicken and chips deal was an adventure worth taking, a return journey to Hajees would not be in the cards. Importantly, the takeaway’s hygiene rating did not necessarily dictate the quality of its food—an important takeaway from this chaotic culinary expedition.
