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

Chef Shota Nakajima announced the closure of Taku, his Osaka-inspired restaurant on Capitol Hill, after five successful years. In a heartfelt message, he reflected on a decade of community engagement in Seattle, calling it a "wild, beautiful ride. " Nakajima hinted at future projects while expressing gratitude for the support he received. This closure follows the earlier shutdown of his pizza pop-up, Kōbo, and comes amidst changes in his business plans, including the withdrawal of a construction permit for expansion. He faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted Taku's opening.

Nakajima plans to host farewell dinner pop-ups to celebrate his time at Taku. His experiences highlight the evolving culinary landscape in Capitol Hill. The community's response will be pivotal in shaping Nakajima's next steps.