Grain Exchange on STAR Campus — Restaurant in Newark

We made plans in advance with another couple to have dinner at Grain Exchange after attending a UD Mens Basketball game on a Friday night. We arrived at Grain Exchange around 6:15pm. There was a sign posted near the door which said please wait to be seated but after waiting 15 minutes with no one coming over to greet & seat us we made the decision to sit at an empty table. We noticed a large group dining in the back of the restaurant and estimated it was a party of 25-30. Obviously a group of that size would have had to make a reservation in advance which meant management was fully aware of the staffing needs. After waiting another 10 minutes the bartender noticed us and came over to take a drink order. We asked if she could also take our food order which she graciously did. One plate of food was finally delivered at 7:40 and the other 3 plates came out at least 10 minutes later. Standing in the front waiting be greeted & seated and being ignored...STRIKE 1 Having to wait over an hour to be served "simple" food items with staggered arrival times...STRIKE 2 Showing total disregard for your customers and employees by not properly staffing for a large group (that you knew about in advance) + regular diners...STRIKE 3 You're OUT, you lost my business. By the way we witnessed a number of other customers come in, wait to be seated, and leave after being completely ignored. DO BETTER, Grain...

We were looking for somewhere in Newark to accommodate approximately 50 people for my mother's surprise 70th birthday party. I had been to the other Grain locations, but I had not been to Grain Exchange. After contacting them, I learned they were closed on Sundays and we would be able to rent out the whole restaurant. Pete, the manager, is amazing! He was so easy to work with and went above and beyond prior and during the party (we had asked for a few additional food items during the party). He didn't hesitate to ensure everything went smoothly. The food and drinks were great. Everyone who attended couldn't stop telling me how great the location and food were, how clean the restaurant was, how they loved the decor, and especially how nice and attentive the staff were to them! From Pete to our servers to the bartender Steph, and Jay who helped me plan, everyone was spectacular. There is a little grassy area outside where the kids could run around. I live out of state, but I'll be sure to stop in each time I'm back visiting. Thank you all so much for ensuring my mother's party went so well! If you go, get the Cream of Chesapeake soup and...

We celebrated our son's 40th birthday this past weekend at Grain Exchange, and it could not have been more perfect! From start to finish, Team Grain made this such a memorable and special event for our family! Pete (GM) and Simon (Manager) went above and beyond in helping us plan every detail!! They were so attentive and caring, it truly felt Pete and Simon were celebrating with us! Everyone raved about the food..from appys to entrees (especially Pete's family recipes on the menu). The bartenders (Andy & Sherise) kept the cocktails flowing! Our family had fun trying just about every drink on the menu!!! AJ and Andrew provided amazing support throughout the party too! The venue is so welcoming, with indoor and outdoor space including bars, which was so cool as our family had plenty of room to mingle and enjoy each other. Thanks to the entire Grain Exchange team, our party was a huge success...filled with laughter and lasting memories not just for our son, but for our entire family! We will continue to be Grain Exchange...