Shin Thompson's Kabocha to Close on Saturday

Less than 10 months in, Kabocha, Shin Thompson and Ryan O'Donnell's "Japanese brasserie," will reach the end of the line after service on Saturday night. In a statement, Thompson in part says "we did not do as strong a job as we could to articulate a clear vision of our concept." Expect something new from Thompson as well as the space on Lake Street soon.

For fans of the restaurant, Thompson and team will host $50 popup dinners tomorrow and Thursday to highlight Kabocha's signature dishes from the last nine-plus months, including his "Scallop Motoyaki" with torched ponzu aioli. The $75 six-course Valentine's Day service is still on the books as well.

Read Thompson's full statement below and expect word of his next move soon.

"I am sad to announce the closing of Kabocha. I was proud of the food our team executed, the service we insisted on and the accolades we received," Thompson said. "Along the way, however, we learned that we did not do as strong a job as we could to articulate a clear vision of our concept.

I look forward to adapting a lot of these lessons in a more cohesive experience in the future. I very much appreciate and thank all of my long-time supporters. For now, I am a free agent, while I ponder my next move."