In 1979, Michael and Athina, originally from Famagusta, Cyprus, embarked on a journey to establish their first fish and chip shop, "Mick’s Fish Bar," in Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, UK. Through unwavering dedication, a commitment to high-quality food, and exceptional service, the business quickly gained a stellar reputation in the local community. Their children soon became integral to the family business, contributing to its growing success. In 1985, driven by their deep love for Cyprus, the family returned to the island. However, two years later, they decided to return to the UK, reigniting their passion for providing customers with quality food. Despite facing challenges—particularly when Michael had to step back due to health issues—their three children, Xenia, Vasso, and Flora, stepped up to support their mother. Not only did they sustain the business, but they also modernized it while maintaining its core values of quality and excellent service, always guided by their parents' advice.
The legacy of their efforts was embodied in the family’s new venture, M&A Fish Bar, proudly serving Clacton-on-Sea since 1979. The shop earned numerous local accolades, recognized as the best fish and chip shop in the area. In 2018, TripAdvisor honored the shop by ranking it among the top 10% of restaurants worldwide—a testament to their dedication and excellence. Over the years, many famous celebrities have visited, including singer and entertainer Danny La Rue, British professional wrestlers British Bulldog and Giant Haystacks, as well as Ross Kemp and Martin Kemp from
EastEnders. In 2020, the family set out on a new journey to open another fish shop, further expanding their culinary legacy. This proud tradition in the catering business began with their grandparents, Vassos Varosiotis, the founder of the renowned Varosiotis Fish Tavern, and continued through the parents’ success.
The next generation is carrying the torch. In April 2022, Xenia and Vasso launched Oh My Cod Fish and More in Larnaca, Cyprus. The establishment offers a delightful menu featuring authentic fish and chips, crispy prawns, calamari, grilled fish, fresh salads, burgers, and more. Over the years, many famous personalities have visited Oh My Cod, including footballer Matt Derbyshire, actor Sofoklis Kaskaounias, as well as Jamie Demetriou, Natasha Demetriou, and Stavris. With their roots deeply embedded in a family tradition of excellence, the new venture promises to deliver the same quality and care that have defined the family’s legacy for decades.
In 1979, Michael and Athina, originally from Famagusta, Cyprus, embarked on a journey to establish their first fish and chip shop, "Mick’s Fish Bar," in Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, UK. Through unwavering dedication, a commitment to high-quality food, and exceptional service, the business quickly gained a stellar reputation in the local community. Their children soon became integral to the family business, contributing to its growing success. In 1985, driven by their deep love for Cyprus, the family returned to the island. However, two years later, they decided to return to the UK, reigniting their passion for providing customers with quality food. Despite facing challenges—particularly when Michael had to step back due to health issues—their three children, Xenia, Vasso, and Flora, stepped up to support their mother. Not only did they sustain the business, but they also modernized it while maintaining its core values of quality and excellent service, always guided by their parents' advice.
The legacy of their efforts was embodied in the family’s new venture, M&A Fish Bar, proudly serving Clacton-on-Sea since 1979. The shop earned numerous local accolades, recognized as the best fish and chip shop in the area. In 2018, TripAdvisor honored the shop by ranking it among the top 10% of restaurants worldwide—a testament to their dedication and excellence. Over the years, many famous celebrities have visited, including singer and entertainer Danny La Rue, British professional wrestlers British Bulldog and Giant Haystacks, as well as Ross Kemp and Martin Kemp from
EastEnders. In 2020, the family set out on a new journey to open another fish shop, further expanding their culinary legacy. This proud tradition in the catering business began with their grandparents, Vassos Varosiotis, the founder of the renowned Varosiotis Fish Tavern, and continued through the parents’ success.
The next generation is carrying the torch. In April 2022, Xenia and Vasso launched Oh My Cod Fish and More in Larnaca, Cyprus. The establishment offers a delightful menu featuring authentic fish and chips, crispy prawns, calamari, grilled fish, fresh salads, burgers, and more. Over the years, many famous personalities have visited Oh My Cod, including footballer Matt Derbyshire, actor Sofoklis Kaskaounias, as well as Jamie Demetriou, Natasha Demetriou, and Stavris. With their roots deeply embedded in a family tradition of excellence, the new venture promises to deliver the same quality and care that have defined the family’s legacy for decades.