Chef Joseph LoMonaco

Chef Joseph LoMonaco, who is best known for his work at Villa Monaco of West Islip and Lomonacos of Centereach has brought his talents to the historic Sea Cove Restaurant, located at 361 Main Street in Center Moriches, NY with spectacular results. Built between 1873 and 1888, 361 Main Street has been a landmark building for local residents and travelers through the “Gateway to the Hamptons” to eat, drinks and gather for over 125 years, including the very first and forever famous Sweezy & Newins Co., as well as the locally loved Sunrise Diner and for the last 30 or so years, as the still popular Sea Cove Restaurant.

Mr. LoMonaco has also spent the past few decades creating quite a name for himself on the collective Long Island palette with his authentic Italian recipes (which have been passed down for generations in his family) always using only quality, veal, chicken, beef, seafood, pasta, and cheeses. Joe credits his success to the philosophy of “The two Q’s; quality and quantity. Let the people eat!” And that they do. Although diners have praised his cooking for decades now, he should not be thought of as a one horse show, as he has cultivated a flair for authentic BBQ which he showcases at “The Cove,” as the locals call it. Now, alongside his reliable Lasagna and Chicken Marsala dishes guests can order authentic baby-back ribs, and pulled pork, among other BBQ dishes he offers on the menu; what some call the single best BBQ menu in Suffolk County which uses his own proven methods to smoke all the meats on premise with a combination of cherry and hickory woods, along with some secret ingredients.

Some of the other delicacies on the menu include Chicken Casalinga, a very tender Ribeye Oregenata, Shrimp Parmesan and Chef Specialties like the meal-in-itself Pasta e Fagioli. Many regulars suggest starting with the Sicilian Salad, Whole Baked Clams, Homemade Pizzas or the incredibly large Sea Cove Sampler to get a taste of what this place has to offer. For meals, try the homemade Fettuccine, Lasagna or Manicotti. The bar also takes on a hip vibe after hours with some of the area’s top DJ’s spinning and party promoters working the room. Whether it’s St. Patrick’s Day, New Years Eve, or our annual Halloween party, there is probably an event going on to coincide with the occasion. Sea Cove also regularly reaches out to the community, donating food for Maureen’s Haven and time and resources to other worthy local causes and groups.

Additionally, Sea Cove Restaurant has a full catering menu featuring exquisite selections of hors d'oeuvres and other items as well as a private room that can accommodate up to 60 people for all occasions including birthdays, communions, business meetings, etc.