Brian Sharko said every family has a story, and his family’s story happens to revolve around food. Beginning in the 1930s when his grandfather, George, opened a butcher shop to decades later when members of the family opened their first of several restaurants, bringing people together and a passion for food has been a family tradition.
In 2013, the Naperville resident continued the story when he opened Sharko’s BBQ at the corner of South Route 59 and 111th Street in Naperville.
“Barbecue has a strong history of bringing family, friends and new acquaintances together,” Sharko said. “It’s an equalizer across many social classes and it’s a type of food — when done right — (that) makes you walk away feeling good.”
Here’s the dish on this local feel-good restaurant.
What’s on the menu? Meats that are rubbed and slowly smoked for 12 to 28 hours are what they’re famous for, along with more than a dozen made-from-scratch sides. And save room for desserts, like the warm peach crisp, Margie’s yellow cake with chocolate icing and the root beer float with a “come back cup.” There is a kids’ menu that offers a nice alternative to typical kid cuisine.
About the owner: Being in the restaurant business may be in Brian Sharko’s genes, but Sharko’s BBQ is his first restaurant venture. While working in corporate America, Sharko said he spent a lot of time in Texas where he fell in love with barbecue. He decided to change careers and Sharko’s BBQ was born in 2013. He and his wife live in Naperville and keep busy running the restaurant and running around with their five children.
A mission statement or philosophy: Sharko’s relies on four “inspiration and guiding principles,” which are a focus on the “feel good” when it comes to atmosphere, service, food and value.
What’s the decor like? The light and bright fast casual restaurant welcomes visitors with its rustic interior, exposed brick, distressed wood and metal accents. Vintage signs adorn the walls and huge chalkboards display the menu items to aid customers when they order. When weather permits,
A spacious patio provides comfortable outdoor dining.
Food specialties: Slow roasted meats is what drives traffic to the south Naperville joint, whether it be for ribs, brisket, pulled pork or the “barbecue delicacy” known as burnt ends. And while they may be called “sides,” the more than a dozen made-from-scratch dishes can stand alone and are worthy of a mention. From the signature spinach casserole, buttermilk coleslaw or coveted macaroni and cheese, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
We’re different because: Sharko’s is family-owned and operated, and they have a strong commitment to the community where they live and work. And at the forefront is the food, made fresh and with the highest quality ingredients. And for those who want a little bit of everything, Sharko’s lets you create your plate by selling meat by the ounce, which is a real treat.
Extras: Sharko’s catering options are abundant, which makes it a crowd pleaser for any gatherings, corporate events and graduation parties. From the meats to the sides, Sharko’s offers dozens of reasons to celebrate. Love the sauce? You can take it home, as they sell four varieties along with their house made pickles. And don’t forget to help yourself to the free mini soft serve vanilla ice cream cones. Yes, they are free.
Price range: Enjoy a pork or brisket slider with a side for $4.95, a pulled pork sandwich for $6.95 or a rubbed and smoked half chicken for under $8. Made-from-scratch sides like macaroni and cheese, tri-baked beans or the signature spinach casserole are $2 and are the perfect complement to any meal. The barbecue wafts are free, and they are abundant.
Logistics: Sharko’s BBQ is at 4931 South Route 59 (Unit 127) in Naperville, at the corner of South Route 59 and 111th Street. They are open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Go to sharkosbbq.com.
Jane Donahue is a freelance writer.
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