Pasqual and Marianna Tomassi begin making ice cream in Langley Park Durham. They open a temperance bar, selling ice cream to the mining community.

The Tomassi's move to the boom town of Southend, opening what would go on to be known as the “Southend Shop”.

The business flourishes and grows with the addition of ice cream carts and new premises under Southend Seafront’s iconic arches.

Newlyweds Tony and June Tomassi become involved in the family business.

Ever the innovators, Tomassi’s is the first restaurant in Southend to feature an Eskimo ‘Tripple Hedda’ ice cream machine and the first in Essex to have Gaggia coffee machine.

Tomassi’s once again expands with the opening of ‘The Cellar” restaurant and the Bouzy Rouge Bistro.

After running the business for many years, Tony is awarded “Freeman of the Town” status as an accolade for his pioneering approach to restaurants and his commitment to Southend. In 1987 the restaurant is relocated to the nearby premises at 9 High Street, where it has remained ever since.

Now run by Antony and Giovanna Tomassi, the restaurant once again expands with the addition of the popular Cafe Tomassi.

Tomassi’s is awarded ‘Growing Business of the Year’ at the Southend District Business Awards

A family business for over 100 years and spanning four generations, we invite you to enjoy Tomassi’s in the same way as Pasqual, Marianna, Tony and June have done.