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s po t l i gh t
M
eet Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen, newcomer to the Newark
dining scene. A complete renovation of the space
formerly occupied by Mojo Main on the University of
Delaware’s East Main Street brought first-time restaurateurs, owners
Lee Mikles and JimO’Donoghue (pictured at right), into the industry.
With a strong design element and a nod to history, the owners have
created a uniquely comfortable and functional space that highlights
both historical and modern furnishings. Committed to community
involvement, some of the restaurant’s most striking wood pieces were
created by the Challenge Program/CP Furniture, which provides
vocational education skills for Delaware’s at-risk youth.
1. How did you come to the decision to open a restaurant?
Being neighbors for over ten years, we have talked about
ideas for our ideal restaurant/bar for almost that long. Our
career and family paths finally aligned to where both our
families could take the leap to start the business.
2. Why did you choose Newark?
Newark has such a great mix of rich history with the
community and constant change with the university, we
knew we wanted to be a part of it. And the building has
such a rich history with the community and music, we felt
it was perfect for our initial location. Both being UofD
graduates made it a natural fit.
3. What’s your focus/”vibe” of the restaurant?
The entire concept is focused on creating opportunities to
socialize. We want people to feel comfortable trying different
things, from our beers, to our food and our music. Our
tagline is “Creative Tastes for Regular Folk.” We wanted to
take unique twists on familiar foods. We are focused on two
groups—what we term as “the suburban foodies” and the
students who “graduate” from downtown Main Street. A
regular night at Grain has college students interacting with
business professionals and families from all over the area.
Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen