The Muslim Jewish Forum of Greater Manchester
Established to develop the cultural and social ties between the Muslim and Jewish communities of Greater Manchester

Forum visits the essence of modern Britain – a halal and kosher chippy in Leeds

12 July 2026

21 years of the Forum have shown that eating together brings people closer to each other. That is why so many of our events involve food!

On Sunday 12 July 2026, about a dozen of us visited Marlow’s British Kitchen, a chippy in Leeds.

This chippy may be unique. Owned by two Muslims, it is both halal (no surprise) but also properly kosher certified. Accordingly, it appeals to practicing Muslims and Jews, as well as welcoming the rest of the community.

We were joined by Leeds City Councillor Mohammed Iqbal who represents Hunslet and Riverside Ward. 20 years ago, he was the first Muslim Lord Mayor of Leeds.

Having had a wonderful afternoon, despite having eaten far too much, we have decided to repeat the experience next year.

The main organisers of the trip were iur Co-Chairs, Mohammed Amin MBE and Cllr Heather Fletcher who has just completed her year as Ceremonial Mayor of Salford. She was the first ever female Jewish Mayor of Salford.

Susan Gordon, who is Jewish, said:

“How delightful to be eating in a 'chippy'! The event I attended with my friends from the Muslim Jewish Forum in Leeds was very pleasant. A comfortable venue, pleasant surroundings, great friends, and very nice food. A restaurant which caters for religious Jews and Muslims alike. More of the same please!”

Cllr Mohammed Iqbal said:

“I am honoured to have been invited to be part of this important initiative.

The Muslim and Jewish communities have much in common, not only in our faith traditions, but also in our religious practices, cultural values, bereavement customs, and the community issues we face. By working together on matters of shared concern, we can build stronger relationships, foster greater understanding and provide mutual support for both our communities.

I look forward to working alongside colleagues in the Muslim Jewish Forum of Greater Manchester to strengthen relationships, advocate for positive change, and promote the shared values that unite our communities.”

A group photo of the diners.

Cllr Heather Fletcher with Cllr Mohammed Iqbal

Mohammed Amin with Mohammed Iqbal

The Muslim Jewish Forum of Greater Manchester
Established to develop the cultural and social ties between the Muslim and Jewish Communities of Greater Manchester