If you’ve lived around Monmouth County long enough, you probably remember that specific vibe. You’d drive down Ocean Avenue, past the massive seawall, and pull into the Driftwood Cabana Club. There was this place upstairs—Ama Ristorante. It wasn't just another Jersey Shore Italian joint. It was "the" spot. Mahogany floors, views of the Atlantic that made you forget about the Parkway traffic, and meatballs that actually tasted like someone’s grandmother was in the kitchen.
But then things shifted. If you search for ama sea bright nj today, you might get a little confused. You’ll see old reviews talking about Tuscan sunsets and new listings pointing toward something called Drifthouse.
Here’s the deal: The space is still there. The views haven't gone anywhere. But the "Ama" name in Sea Bright has essentially transitioned into a new chapter under celebrity chef David Burke. Understanding what happened to Ama—and what’s there now—is basically a crash course in how the Jersey Shore dining scene evolves without losing its identity.
The Era of Ama Ristorante
Ama was special because it felt like a secret. Even though it was open to the public, being tucked inside the Driftwood Cabana Club gave it this "if you know, you know" energy. It officially opened around late 2012, right as the town was literally digging itself out from Superstorm Sandy.
While other places were struggling to put the roof back on, Ama was serving up beet tartare and wood-fired pizzas. It was upscale but not stuffy. You could wear a nice summer dress or a button-down and feel right at home overlooking the Shrewsbury River on one side and the ocean on the other.
The menu was heavily influenced by Tuscany. We’re talking about hand-rolled pastas and a wine list that could keep a sommelier busy for an hour. People loved it because it didn't feel like a seasonal beach shack. It was a year-round destination. When the wind was howling off the ocean in February, you could sit by the fireplace with a glass of Sangiovese and feel like you were in a villa in Italy rather than a narrow strip of land in New Jersey.
Why did it change?
Restaurant life is tough. In 2018, the Stavola family, who has owned the Driftwood since 1957, decided to partner with David Burke. Burke is a local legend—born in Hazlet, trained everywhere—and he brought a different kind of "theatre" to the space.
That’s when Ama became Drifthouse by David Burke.
It wasn't a "failed restaurant" situation. It was a rebranding. They kept the "Tommy’s Rigatoni" on the menu (a staple for over 14 years) but added the Burke flair. Think clothesline bacon and Himalayan salt-aged steaks. If you’re looking for that specific Ama Sea Bright NJ experience, Drifthouse is the direct descendant.
What to Expect at the Location Today
If you pull up to 1485 Ocean Ave now, the physical soul of Ama is still there. The building still sits between the river and the sea.
The interior has been refreshed, but it still has that "warm and cozy" feeling people raved about a decade ago. It’s beach-chic now. You’ve still got the panoramic windows. You’ve still got the sunsets over the Shrewsbury River, which, honestly, are probably the best in the state.
- The Raw Bar: They’ve leaned heavily into the seafood. There are custom-made lobster tanks and an oyster tank built specifically for the venue.
- The Famous Rigatoni: They didn't scrap the history. The house-made sausage, tomato, and pea rigatoni is still a heavy hitter.
- The Fireplace Lounge: In the winter, this is still the best seat in town. It’s got leather swivel chairs and framed prints of legends like Sinatra and Jagger.
Ama vs. The Competition in Sea Bright
Sea Bright is a tiny town, but it’s a heavyweight in the food world. When people talk about ama sea bright nj, they usually compare it to a few other staples.
Anjelica’s is the big one. It’s right down the street and is notoriously hard to get a table at. While Anjelica’s is legendary for that intimate, high-end Neapolitan feel, the old Ama (and now Drifthouse) has the advantage of space and views. You aren't cramped. You can actually breathe.
Then you’ve got Tommy’s Tavern + Tap. It’s a totally different beast—loud, massive, great for a game. But if you wanted the refined, "date night" energy of Ama, Tommy’s isn't the vibe.
Is "Ama" Still Around Elsewhere?
This is where it gets slightly tricky for the casual Googler. There is a place called AMA Pizza e Cucina in Hillsborough, NJ.
It’s run by the Confuorto family. It’s incredible. It has that same Neapolitan heart, but it is not the Sea Bright location. If you’re looking for the oceanfront experience you remember from 2015, don't drive to Hillsborough. You’ll be about an hour and a half inland. Beautiful pizza, but zero seagulls.
Actionable Tips for Visiting the Old Ama Spot
If you’re planning to head to the Driftwood location (now Drifthouse) to recapture that Ama magic, here is how to do it right:
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- Timing is everything: Go about an hour before sunset. Start with a drink at the bar facing the river. The way the sun hits the Shrewsbury is worth the price of the cocktail alone.
- Don't skip the pasta: Even with the new "Burke" steakhouse items, the house-made pastas are where the legacy of Ama lives on.
- Winter is the secret season: Everyone crowds Sea Bright in July. But this location is built for January. The wood-burning fireplace and the dark wood decor make it the ultimate escape when the beach is empty.
- Check the "Tiki" status: During the warmer months, the Driftwood Tiki Bar is open. It’s more casual than the main dining room but uses the same high-quality kitchen.
The name on the sign might have changed from Ama to Drifthouse, but the fundamental reason people flocked there remains. It’s that rare combination of high-end culinary skill and a location that makes you feel like you’re on vacation, even if you just drove ten minutes from Red Bank.
Next time you're looking for that specific Italian-inspired coastal vibe, just remember: search for the Driftwood Cabana Club. The spirit of Ama is still very much alive in the rigatoni and those Atlantic views.
Your Next Steps
Check the current seasonal menu at Drifthouse to see if their specific "Sunday Gravy" or pasta specials are running, as they frequently rotate based on local NJ harvests. If you're looking for a private event, ask about the "Gallery Room," which still maintains the original intimate architecture that made Ama a favorite for shore weddings.