With Taku closure, Chef Shota says goodbye to Capitol Hill (and maybe Seattle?)

Chef Shota Nakajima has announced the closure of Taku, his beloved Osaka-inspired karaage bar in Capitol Hill, after five successful years. In his farewell message, Nakajima reflects on his enriching experiences in Seattle's culinary landscape, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the community that has supported him. The closure comes after a period of temporary downtime as he hosted a series of pop-ups inspired by his acclaimed first venture, Naka. This decision follows the previous shutdown of his Detroit-style pizza pop-up, Kōbo, suggesting a shift in Nakajima's business focus. While he acknowledges the challenges faced, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, he remains optimistic about future projects.

Nakajima's heartfelt words resonate with his loyal patrons, hinting at potential new directions beyond Seattle. His journey has been characterized by innovation and resilience, leaving an indelible mark on the local dining scene. As he prepares for farewell dinners at Taku, anticipation builds for what lies ahead for this talented chef.