Since opening in 2014, Barnwood Grill has become a beloved dining destination in Newtown, known for its warm atmosphere, personable service, and elevated take on New American cuisine.

At the heart of it all is owner Shkelzen “Denard” Kralani, who brings over two decades of culinary experience from top-tier restaurants across Europe and the tristate area.

“My goal was to combine the best elements from everywhere I had worked—Italian, French, Mediterranean, steakhouses—and create a space that feels both upscale and welcoming,” Denard said.

With its rustic interior, thoughtful menu, and staff trained to treat every guest like family, Barnwood Grill has earned a reputation for consistency, creativity, and customer connection.

Executive Chef Enrique Marocho leads a kitchen that constantly experiments with weekly specials, fresh ingredients, and globally inspired flavors. The Sunday brunch and signature dishes like the Chicken Milanese Burrata, Kobe Burger, and Jumbo Sea Scallops remain local favorites.

But Denard’s passion for hospitality didn’t stop in Newtown.

In December 2022, he expanded his vision with the opening of Bora Restaurant, located at 68 Stony Hill Road in Bethel. Sleek, modern, and upscale, Bora quickly gained recognition for its vibrant ambiance and stylish plating.

And in 2024, Denard launched his third concept: Barnwood Tavern, located at 2 Tabby Road in Danbury. This newest addition brings a rustic charm and approachable feel, blending hearty tavern fare with Barnwood’s signature hospitality.

“We always aim to reflect the community we're in,” Denard said. “Whether you’re at Barnwood Grill, Bora, or Barnwood Tavern, you’re going to experience thoughtful food and genuine hospitality.”

All three restaurants also offer catering services, private event accommodations, and online ordering for takeout. Denard and his team invite everyone to stop in, say hello, and enjoy what they've worked so passionately to create.

Sample Of The Menu

Appetizers: Out of the ten appetizers, a standout dish is the Tuna Tartar with tempura avocado, red tobiko, crispy wontons, and a light spicy Japanese sauce. It is vegan and gluten free.

Soups: The Vegetable Puree is a staple at Barnwood Grill and is also vegan and gluten free. Customers can look forward to the Soup of the Day option, too.

Salads: From the nearly half a dozen salad possibilities, the Spinach Salad is a popular choice. It is made with baby spinach, pecans, dry cranberries, Manchego cheese, crispy homemade bacon, avocado, and poppy seed honey-lime dressing.

Flatbreads: One of Denard’s favorite flatbreads is the Barnwood Norwegian with smoked salmon, capers, red onions, and fresh dill sauce.

In Hands: The Kobe Burger is a specialty of Barnwood Grill and has caramelized onions, wild mushrooms, truffle aioli, Vermont white cheddar, and toasted brioche.

Raw Bar: Barnwood Grill has a Raw Bar with Blue Point Oysters and Clams on Half Shell.

Sea: Customers cannot get enough of the Jumbo Sea Scallops — pan seared scallops with spinach, mushrooms, asparagus, grape tomatoes, and lemon white wine sauce — as well as the Shrimp & Grits — grilled shrimp with marinated sweet chili sauce and cheddar jalapeno grits.

Land: The Beef Brisket is gluten free and cooked “low n’ slow.” It has tender and sweet light BBQ sauce, potato, vegetables, and coleslaw.

Pasta: The homemade Sacchetto is one of five pasta dishes on the menu. It has Parmigiano Reggiano, shredded short ribs, mushrooms, caramelized onions, creamy au jus, and fresh arugula.

Poultry: At Barnwood Grill, patrons can enjoy their famous Chicken Milanese Burrata with crispy chicken breast, arugula and Arcadian mix, fresh lemon, almonds, grape tomatoes, and balsamic reduction.

Brunch: Sunday Brunch takes place from 11:30 am to 2 pm and has a variety of items to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Dig into the Burnt Ends Breakfast Sandwich, which includes brisket chunks, cheddar cheese, scrambled eggs, creamy Thai lime sauce, caramelized onions, and naan pocket bread paired with home fries.

Drinks: Barnwood Grill has its award-winning Pear Basil Martini, as well as an assortment of wines, draft beer, martinis, and spirits.

Dessert: Indulge in the homemade crème brûlée and the tiramisu.

Barnwood Grill, 5 Queen Street, has kitchen hours Sunday to Tuesday from 11:30 am to 9 pm and Wednesday to Saturday from 11:30 am to 10 pm. The bar stays open until the last customers leave.

For more information, visit barnwoodgrill.com and follow them on social media, Facebook @barnwoodgrillnewtown and Instagram @barnwood_grill. To contact Barnwood Grill, e-mail barnwoodgrill2014@gmail.com or call 203-491-2215.