Harrogate restaurant serves first free school meals

Last updated Oct 27, 2020

An Italian restaurant in Harrogate has stepped up to the plate to deliver free school meals this half term week.

Portofino Ristorante has cooked about 70 meals today including pizza, pasta and chips for those most in need.

The charitable move, which hundreds of cafes and restaurants across the country are also doing, follows a controversial vote in Parliament.

Ozgur Babat, who owns Portofino on Albert Street, decided to take action when the government voted down a motion to extend free school meals over half term and the Christmas holidays.

Any families who need a meal can get in touch with the restaurant, which will prepare a meal for volunteers to deliver to their door.

There are around 2,000 children in Harrogate who receive free school meals.

How many other places deliver free school meals?

(Please make sure to check how long the offers are available for as some may vary.)

Art from the Heart, Harrogate is offering to drop off a parcel of essentials – message them on Facebook here.
Caffe Tempo, Ripon is offering a free lunch – message them on Facebook here.
Estabulo Rodizio Bar and Grill, Harrogate is cooking 100 free meals each day – collection is from the restaurant between 4-5pm.
Harrogate Fisheries is offering a free kids sausage and chips lunch meals between 11.30am – 1.45pm this week – ask for the deal when ordering inside.
Harrogate Tea Rooms is offering a free lunch – just head into the Tea Room for its no judgement offer.
Hazel House Guide headquarters is offering free, pre-booked meals – call April Martin on 07855802373 to book.
Indulge Deli Bar, Harrogate is offering a free hot or cold lunch – ask for the Marcus Rashford deal when ordering inside.
Konak Meze, Harrogate is offering free hot meals or essentials – message on Facebook here.
Major Tom’s Social, Harrogate is offering free kids pizzas between 12-4pm – find out more here.
Scarlett’s Vintage Tea Rooms, Knaresborough is offering a free packed lunch – ask for the deal when ordering inside.
Thug Sandwiches, Harrogate is offering a free lunch – message on Facebook here.
The Forge Sandwich Shop, Ripon is offering a free packed lunch – message them on Facebook here.
The Harrogate CBD Company has joined forces with Mrs Smith’s Cafe in Jennyfields to provide a free lunch – go to the cafe or message them on Facebook here.
Ash Grove Guest House on Kings Road in Harrogate is offering free warm breakfasts – call them on 01423 569970