Shakou Sushi rolled out the red carpet for excited patrons this weekend and hosted the debut event in their new Barrington location. Barrington 220’s Roslyn Road Elementary School chose Shakou’s rooftop terrace as the spot for their “Grateful for You” fundraiser Saturday and we’ve heard nothing but rave reviews from guests who made a point of visiting Shakou during their first full week open in Barrington.
Shakou has been promising modern Asian cuisine served with a city-vibe in the suburbs and we can now personally attest they have delivered just that with the opening of their third location in the heart of downtown Barrington. It feels surreal to walk into this urban, contemporary atmosphere overlooking the community’s historic Catlow Theater with decor, dishes and music unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere in the northwest suburbs.
Shakou spokesperson, Randi Moxi says the response to the new restaurant has been absolutely overwhelming. “Before we opened, the community was already embracing Shakou and giving us feedback about how excited they were about our Barrington opening. Expectations were really high and, now that we’re open, we haven’t stopped hearing praise about how we’ve not only met, but surpassed those expectations.”
“Shakou’s symbol is the Japanese character for happiness,” Randi says. “Your happiness is our goal and we think we’ve met that with Shakou’s new Barrington opening.”
We asked some of this weekend’s first patrons for their thoughts about Barrington’s newest restaurant and they were singing praises as they sipped cocktails over Shakou’s sushi and signature dishes.
“I’m amazed with it! I think this place is beautiful. I love the rooftop, the atmosphere, everything is very impressive. To have that city-like environment in the suburbs is awesome!” ~ Kelly Pearson
“Just the rooftop alone. Outside dining is not a big thing in the suburbs. It’s way more popular in the city so it’s nice to be able to get something like that out here.” ~ Kevin Bloom
“We love it! Love the music and the cocktails. The decor is chic and clean and modern and the food is awesome. And we love the cozyness of Shakou’s terrace with the lamps and heaters. It’s so nice that you can sit outside overlooking Main Street. Yet it doesn’t feel like Barrington. It feels like somewhere else. Like we’re in the city.” ~ Friends Jill Rojas, Jessica Hoffmann, Karen Bundrant & Nicole Koviak – Barrington Hills, IL
“Awesome! I love the decor, I love the atmosphere and the food has been flavorful, fresh and fabulous. We don’t have anything like this in the area so having Shakou close by is awesome! It’s very much like being downtown so it’s nice to have this in the suburbs and not have to go Chicago.” ~ Maureen Degen, Lake Zurich, IL
“The food is wonderful, the restaurant is beautiful and I love the crowd. We’ve needed this so much in this area. Everything is a step up and we love it. Absolutely love it!” ~ Denise Tripicchio, Lake Zurich, IL
“The food is awesome. The freshness is perfect, the texture is wonderful and the ambiance of the restaurant is incredible as well.” ~ Karen & Doug Crawford
“Shakou is a wonderful addition to the lineup of restaurants in Barrington. The space is beautiful, the atmosphere relaxing and the food was delicious. With the urban-chic ambiance, extensive menu selections, great portions and pricing, I think Shakou Barrington will quickly become a destination for people all over the northwest suburbs.” ~ Anne Garrette, Village of Barrington Event & Marketing Coordinator
“Shakou brings a fun and relaxing, urban chic atmosphere and a new vibrancy to the downtown, making Barrington a social, active and vibrant area. The décor is spectacular and the food is wonderful with great portions and prices. You will be in heaven with this welcome addition to the Village of Barrington.” ~ Peg Blanchard, Village of Barrington Economic Development Director
Not only does Shakou offer a refreshing new option for date nights, lunch or evenings out with friends, Randi Moxi says it’s the perfect place for your next event or fundraiser. “For corporate and charitable events, fundraisers, showers, birthday parties or any milestone celebration, Shakou offers a one-of-a-kind experience for your guests and a menu that has something for everyone. From the city vibe decor to the overall atmosphere to the warm and inviting staff, Shakou is here to help you impress your guests.” For more information about events, contact Shakou Party Coordinator, Kristen, at 815-260-2200.
To introduce the community to Shakou Cares, the social mission of Shakou, the restaurant is donating a portion of proceeds from opening weekend in Barrington to the Muscular Dystrophy Association in loving memory of Lonnie Russell. The Shakou Cares program was designed by the restaurant’s owners to help local organizations raise funds, find cures and champion worthy causes.
Shakou is located at 121 W. Main Street in the new Barrington Village Center. They are open Monday through Saturday for Lunch and Dinner and for Dinner only on Sundays. For a reservation, click here or call 224-655-2853 and, for more information, visit ShakouSushi.com/Barrington.
