Javits Takeaway has confirmed that all three of its Edinburgh premises remain open for business as usual, following reports that a former operator had entered liquidation. The acclaimed takeaway operates branches in Granton, Gilmerton and Wester Hailes.
Ownership and recent changes
The food business was founded by Javit Duman, 57, who bought over a Kebab Express in 1995 before rebranding and franchising the now family-run empire. Duman confirmed that he still owns the Granton and Gilmerton branches, which remain open as usual. He told Edinburgh Live that he sold the Wester Hailes site three years ago.
Located at 38 Westside Plaza, Javits Wester Hailes is now under the ownership of Iman Hospitality Ltd. Bosses told the Daily Record that the official takeover took place on September 7, 2026.
Liquidation of former operator
The announcement that the business remains trading comes after the original operator, known as Duman Chippy Ltd, went into liquidation earlier this month. A public Gazette notice dated November 10 confirms that Richard Gardiner of the insolvency firm Thomson Cooper was appointed as liquidator a week prior, on November 2.
Meanwhile, the official Companies House record for new owner Iman Hospitality Ltd shows the firm's status as 'active'. As the new owner is not in liquidation, Javits Wester Hailes remains open as normal. A Mr Muhammed Shahbaz Shafiq holds the position of 'Director' of Iman Hospitality Ltd. Gilmerton and Granton Javits Takeaways are operated under separate companies but also remain open as normal.
Reassurance from management
Muhammad Shahbaz Shafiq, Director of Iman Hospitality Ltd, told the Daily Record: "All three Javits takeaways in Edinburgh are open and trading as usual. Customers can visit or order from Wester Hailes, Gilmerton and Granton as they normally would.
"We know the recent reports about the liquidation of a former operator may have caused confusion. Our teams are here, our doors are open, and we look forward to welcoming you.
"Javits was named Best Takeaway in Edinburgh at the 2025 Mealzo Takeaway Awards. We're proud of that recognition and grateful to the customers who have supported Javits over the years.
"Whether you're coming in for your usual fish and chips or trying Javits for the first time, you'll get a warm welcome. To our regulars, thank you for making us part of your week and for supporting your local takeaway."
History and accolades
Established in 2001, Javits is a well-loved takeaway that serves traditional chippy produce, alongside kebabs, pizzas and burgers. It has gone on to become the recipient of multiple industry accolades.
In 2025, it was named 'Best Takeaway in Edinburgh' by the Mealzo Awards. It was also previously crowned the 'Best Kebab Shop in Scotland' from over 2,000 nominees a decade earlier in 2015.
Javit Duman told Edinburgh Live: "I founded Javits in 2001 and it has been successful ever since. We are not going bankrupt. We're not getting liquidated. The Wester Hailes one is totally different than Javits itself.
"We've opened in Gilmerton that worked as well. So now we're in the middle of buying in Stenhouse Cross. So we are branching out. Javits is getting stronger than ever."
