189 Terminus Road,
Eastbourne, BN21 3DH
History of Qualisea
For over 60 years, our family has proudly served the community with our delicious fish and chips, ensuring a delightful dining experience in several locations throughout the area. Our commitment to quality and tradition has made us a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike.
1964
Beginnings on Junction Road
Qualisea began in a small shop on 28 Junction Road Eastbourne in 1964. It was owned by Michael Cosma, a proud Cypriot immigrant who moved to England at the young age of 18 and after working in hotels and the nightclub Talk of the Town in London. He moved to Eastbourne and learned the Fish & Chip trade. Him and his Irish wife Anne Cosma, were proud owners and achieved great success in Junction Road and really made a name for themselves and their business in the town. However, after several years running Qualisea from Junction Road, the council enforced a compulsory purchase of the property, in order to build the Arndale Shopping Center (now known as The Beacon).
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Below: Michael with his children, Cosma & Katerina
1978
Relocating to Pevensey Road
Qualisea moved to 9 Pevensey Road due to a compulsory purchase. Despite Michael and Anne's concerns, the business thrived, and their loyal customer base only grew stronger. Junction Road held many joyful memories, with the highlight for the Cosma family being when Egon Rooney featured Qualisea in the esteemed 1987 Good Food Guide. As a family-run business, the children also took part, with Cosma and Katerina contributing to its success.
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As business continued to boom, the list of regular customers became longer, and so did the daily queues for tables and takeaway! It became evident business has outgrown it's current location and a change was in order. ​The search for a new location began and the Cosma family set their sights on the Barclays Bank building (189 Terminus Road) that had recently come on the market.
1992
Big move to 189 Terminus Road
The Cosma family achieved their dream of purchasing ​189 Terminus Road. But unfortunately, Eastbourne Council refused to grant planning permission. After a costly public enquiry, and petitions signed by customers, this was overturned and work could commence! Opening day was 1st December 1992 and the family was overwhelmed with the public support. Although the family were apprehensive about a much larger premises, opening day was a roaring success and Qualisea became a staple in the town centre.
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Many customers have become personal friends and still visit us to this day. It's heartwarming to see those who enjoyed our Fish and Chips as children now bringing their own kids to continue the family tradition at Qualisea.The business proudly remains in the hands of Katerina Tutt (née Cosma) and her family and last year, Qualisea celebrated 60 years of business! The legacy of the Cosma family continues...
1937
1962
