Holt Fish Bar celebrates 50th anniversary with new menu launch

Holt Fish Bar, in Shirehall Plain, has been owned by three generations of the Garrard family for half a century.

Bought by Michael and Shirley Garrard and Shirley’s parents Bob and Jessie Beere in July 1973, current owner Martin Garrard took over the family business five years ago in 2018.

Mr Garrard, 45, has worked at the fish and chip shop since he was 14 years old and now runs the chippy alongside his partner Idal Nakkour.

Owner Martin Garrard outside Holt Fish Bar, which has been frying fish since 1973 (Image: Adam Barker)

READ MORE: How new banking hubs could replace closing bank branches in north Norfolk

“Celebrating our 50th anniversary feels like a real milestone and is something we’re really proud of,” Mr Garrard said.  

“Times have changed so much but we still get customers come in who have been coming since we opened back in 1973.

“We’re now serving their grandchildren and generations of holiday makers – we’ve got some really loyal and repeat customers.

Holt Fish Bar, which offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options alongside its traditional fish and chips, is now serving up a range of Lebanese dishes – inspired by Mr Garrard’s partner Miss Nakkour’s French Lebanese heritage.

The new items on the menu include homemade falafel served in wraps and salad bowls.

READ MORE: Sea Palling lifeboat was back on service during kayak rescue

Martin Garrard and his partner Idal Nakkour (Image: Supplied)

Mr Garrard said the last few years, with the pandemic and cost of living crisis, have been challenging for Holt Fish Bar and fish and chip shops across the country.

“I’d like to say thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years," he said.

"We’ve built relationships with so many of our customers who helped us through the pandemic, so I’d like to thank them for their loyalty and custom.

“I know my grandparents would love to see it carrying on as it’s their legacy.”