Shakou Restaurants

Shakou does look beautiful from the outside,but I was not impressed with food. First of all, everything could use some extra touch, either more seasoning or more attention to how the food exits the kitchen. The calamari were more on the chewy side, and the spicy dipping sauce wasn't remarkable. On the other hand, the nachos with the spicy tuna dip were really good. For our entrée we ordered a Tokyo steak with a potato croquet and sautéed vegetables and Sapporo NY steak with jumbo shrimp. Unfortunately, Tokyo steak was not cooked properly as I ordered a medium well steak,but it came out medium. Our server took it back to the kitchen to fix it,but in the meantime, everything else on the plate got cold. The veggies were fresh but did not have any bold flavors. Still, as a courtesy, our server offered we would not have to pay for the Tokyo steak. It was a nice gesture, and it came as a surprise. The Sapporo steak was much better than the Tokyo steak. The accompanying shrimp were cooked perfectly, and they had a delicious glaze on top. Overall, the food was okay, but it could have been better considering the high ratings. Finally, I think that the music that was played at Shakou completely did not match the classic/elegant/Asian atmosphere of the restaurant. I believe that there are better choices than electronic dance music that would go well with the relaxing feel of Shakou..

Shakou Barrington is now my husband and I FAVORITE sushi and Asian cuisine restaurant. Tempura shrimp and vegetables were a great appetizer. Mixed drinks amazing. Main course we had sushi rolls (Golden Lobster, Niko Niko, and Raging bull with crab) and with the freshest seafood. They were perfectly rolled. Black Widow is a great option too.. Presentation was beautiful. Oh the seafood miso was the best I have ever had. Topped the dinner off with Mochi ice cream. Ask for Ziya or James, both very attentive and nice.

This was my first time Shakou. I highly recommend the appetizers as you will get the try the chefs more creative and unique takes on sushi. Several variations of ahi tuna are all great. There are many traditional rolls as well and some non sushi options, like ribs. They do close a little early, keep that in mind when going for a longer time.

Birthday Dinner time!! The sashimi was fresh and buttery. The rolls were good flavor, but the rice was a bit mushy and too much of it. The calamari tempura was crispy and yummy, but more meat! My husband enjoyed his chicken katsu. The breading was light and crunchy. It was a cute setting and very cool for downtown Barrington. Good for date nights!