Michael Barrett, owner and operator of the Sunset Inn since 1987, prides himself in the personal and undivided attention that he gives each client and each event whether it be a large wedding, an intimate anniversary party, a shower, a professional business meeting and luncheon, or a celebration banquet. An Erie native, Michael has a long and varied career in the hospitality field. His career star
ted with Stouffers in San Francisco, then advanced to managing food and beverage facilities for Newark International and Tampa International airports. Following his return to Erie, he owned and operated several franchises and independent restaurants including The Dry Dock, The Pasta Factory, and Barrett’s restaurant. Michael also taught hotel and restaurant management at Mercyhurst College in Erie, PA and Sandhill’s Community College in Pinehurst, NC. He is a certified Food Management Professional (FMP) and is very active in the Pennsylvania Restaurant Association, where he served as President in 2001 and Chairman of the Board in 2002. Built in 1922, originally as a social club for local executives, the Sunset Inn is located on cliffs overlooking Lake Erie to take advantage of the view of Erie’s glorious sunsets! Countless party guests since then have enjoyed the splashes of reds, pinks, and oranges as the sun sets over the lake in the evening. Afternoon guests are treated to views of Lake Erie as well as the landscape of Sunset Inn’s 4-acre estate. Thousands of couples from all over the country have celebrated their marriages with us… by the Sunset Inn’s fireplace, on the deck, or in the romantic gazebo. Paula Barrett, Michael’s wife and local university professor, was delighted when she learned that her parents had their wedding reception at the Sunset Inn in 1947.
