More Than a Venue. A Family Tradition.

For more than 65 years, Amarante's Sea Cliff has welcomed generations of families to celebrate life's most meaningful moments along the Connecticut shoreline.
Family celebrating a special occasion at Amarante's Sea Cliff in New Haven, Connecticut

A Place Where Memories Begin

Some places host events.

Others become part of people's lives.

At Amarante's Sea Cliff, we've watched couples become parents, parents become grandparents, and families return year after year to celebrate the moments that matter most. From weddings and anniversaries to retirement parties, fundraisers, and family reunions, every celebration adds another chapter to our story.

That sense of connection is what has defined us for more than six decades.

Our Story

Before Amarante's

Long before our family arrived, the Sea Cliff was already a beloved gathering place on the Connecticut shoreline. During the Roaring Twenties, guests arrived by trolley and chauffeur-driven cars to enjoy dinner, dancing, and evenings overlooking Long Island Sound.

Even during Prohibition, The Inn became home to a hidden speakeasy, adding another unforgettable chapter to the property's rich history.

1962

Andy "Sonny" Amarante purchases the Sea Cliff.

Following service in the United States Navy and graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in New Haven, Sonny dreamed of creating more than a restaurant.

He wanted to build a place where people could celebrate life's biggest milestones.

The Following Decades

Through hard work, incredible food, and genuine hospitality, that dream became reality.

As families celebrated weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays, Amarante's Sea Cliff became woven into the fabric of Connecticut's shoreline community.

Today

More than 65 years later, that tradition continues with the same family values that started it all.

What We Believe

Hospitality First

We believe every guest deserves to feel welcomed from the moment they arrive.

A Beautiful Setting Matters

Our waterfront location provides a naturally unforgettable backdrop.

Great Food Brings People Together

Every menu is thoughtfully prepared because celebrations deserve exceptional meals.

Every Event Is Personal

No two celebrations are alike, and we wouldn't want them to be.

A Venue for Every Celebration

Bridesmaids holding colorful bouquets before a waterfront wedding at Amarante's Sea Cliff

Weddings

Waterfront ceremonies and elegant receptions.

Private Celebrations

Birthdays, showers, anniversaries, and all in between.

Corporate Events

Meetings, fundraisers, galas, and holiday parties.
Fresh seafood and cocktails at The Deck at Amarante's Sea Cliff overlooking New Haven Harbor

The Deck

Summer dining, live entertainment, cocktails, and sunsets.

Then & Now

Amarante's Sea Cliff waterfront venue on Long Island Sound in New Haven, Connecticut
Bride and groom arriving at The Inn at Amarante's Sea Cliff before their waterfront wedding

Community Roots

Long before Amarante's Sea Cliff became a destination for weddings and celebrations, it was part of the fabric of Morris Cove. For generations, families have gathered here to mark life's biggest milestones, creating traditions that have been passed down from one generation to the next.

Many of the same families who celebrated here decades ago continue to return today—bringing their children, grandchildren, and friends to experience the same warm hospitality and beautiful waterfront setting they remember. Even members of the Amarante family and lifelong neighbors still call Morris Cove home, a reflection of the deep roots we've planted in this remarkable community.

We're proud to support local businesses, work alongside talented Connecticut vendors, and welcome guests from near and far to discover everything our shoreline has to offer. While our venue has grown over the years, our commitment to our community has remained unchanged.

At Amarante's Sea Cliff, we're more than a place to host an event—we're proud to be part of the story of Morris Cove, New Haven, and the generations of families who have celebrated here for decades.
Historic trolley arriving at Sea Cliff in Morris Cove, New Haven during the early 1900sHistoric Amarante's Sea Cliff menu from the early years of the waterfront restaurant in New Haven

Looking Ahead

While we're proud of our history, we're even more excited about what's next.

Every wedding.

Every anniversary.

Every graduation.

Every corporate milestone.

Every sunset dinner.

Every celebration becomes another page in the story of Amarante's Sea Cliff, and we can't wait to help write yours.
Connecticut Special Olympics participants gathered at Amarante's Sea Cliff overlooking Long Island Sound

We'd Love to Welcome You

Whether you're planning the wedding of your dreams, a milestone celebration, or your next corporate event, we'd be honored to be part of your story.