Thursday, October 1, 2026
When Laura and Ralph Bonelli first stepped into the building that would become the Sea Cliff General Store, they were struck by its charm. The property, known only to a handful of locals who had glimpsed it through its windows, featured a handcrafted bar, a small stage and a warm, wood-accented interior. When the property went up for sale, the Bonellis decided they had found the perfect home for a community hub.
“We moved to Sea Cliff three years ago, and we just absolutely adore the town,” Laura said. “The space was so unique… so much of the community was really interested in seeing what it was like, and wanted to have this as a community spot.”
The family purchased the property on Oct. 2, and after navigating zoning requirements and making minor aesthetic updates, they held a soft opening of the Sea Cliff General Store on Saturday. The building had previously been known as Woodpecker Hall, a private event space. The Bonellis kept the name alive by incorporating a woodpecker into the new store’s logo.
The couple preserved the bar and stage, leaning into the building’s history while adapting it for retail. Ralph said the transition from turning it into a store was luckily straightforward.
“The property was in such pristine condition it was really a matter of figuring out how to preserve the authentic feel to it,” he said. “It was really kind of just come in and just set up some shelving, figure out how we want to do this, and some tables and go from there.”
Ralph, a retired city police officer, said the location had long been a point of curiosity for residents walking to the waterfront.
“It’s just one of the spots you just always look in the window,” he said. “I’m like, wow, that’s such a cool spot."
Now open to the public, the store features a mix of modern and nostalgic goods. Old-fashioned toys like whoopee cushions and kaleidoscopes sold out on opening day. Shelves carry everything from soaps and candles to personalized leather-bound books and Sea Cliff branded merchandise.
A local focus runs throughout the store’s offerings, from artwork to curated gifts by area artisans.
A highlight of the space is its working tap system, originally installed for private events. Without a liquor license, the Bonellis opted for nonalcoholic options. The store now serves Nitro Cold Brew from Shag Harbor and kombucha from Black Cap in Farmingdale. “
Local response has been enthusiastic. According to the couple, the line for the store was out the door at their soft launch.
“This past weekend was such a great example of everyone just came out to support,” Ralph said. “Everyone loves the energy about it.”
For the Bonellis, community involvement is central to their mission.
“We’ve always felt it takes a village,” Laura said. “We just love everything about Sea Cliff and its community, and we just want to give back.”
The family plans additional programming, including holiday events for children and collaborations with local organizations. A grand opening is planned for early 2026. For more information on the general store, check out their Instagram at @seacliff.general or their Facebook page, Sea Cliff General.
