Coronation Street star soaks up the vibe at new Mexican restaurant's open night

One of Coronation Street's longest-serving stars soaked up the atmosphere as a new neighbourhood restaurant opened its doors with a generous mission before Christmas. Mexicali dished out free tacos to those who popped in for its first 'open day' on Saturday (December 16).

But there was a kind-hearted catch for diners, as the tacos were served in return for a donation to a Salford charity which supports homeless people in the city. Mexicali is gearing up for a full launch in the new year on Monton Road, in the bustling Salford suburb of Monton.

The first of a number of 'open days' took place on Saturday, with diners including Alan Halsall, who has played Tyrone in Corrie for 25 years. Alan popped in alongside his partner, Tisha Merry, his daughter, Sienna Rae, and a crowd of Monton locals who were queueing outside the door.

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The evening coincided with the first day of the Mexican Christmas festival Las Posadas, which means 'The Inns' in Spanish. Las Posadas, which marks the journey of Joseph and Mary in search of a safe refuge before Jesus' birth, runs from December 16 to 25.

Mexicali completely ran out of tacos before the night was over, as generous diners added their support to the restaurant's fundraising efforts for Emmaus Salford. Visual artist Sian Elizabeth, also known by the name Fanny Gogh, designed and led the event - while band Mariachi Felino provided an evening of fun entertainment.

Mexicali is hosting it's next open night on Thursday (December 21), with full opening