Mongolian Grill Coming to Algonquin Commons this Spring

After noticing that Algonquin was lacking in restaurants offering Mongolian food, Shan Hao Zhao decided to look into opening his own.

Jiang’s Mongolian and Japanese Grill is scheduled to open in the Algonquin Commons this April. Shan Hao Zhao has been operating Golden Wok Chinese Buffet restaurant in Villa Park since 2000 and wanted to try something a little different.

Zhao, who lives in Addison, moved to the United States from China 20 years ago. While in China, Zhao gained experience cooking Chinese foods. His experience operating the buffet in Villa Park also has helped him hone his knowledge of the restaurant industry.

He asked local residents what they thought about his idea to open a Mongolian restaurant; he said he repeatedly was met with positive reactions. “This gave me much confidence to operate a Mongolian grill in the kind city of Algonquin,” said Zhao, as translated in an email from his broker, David Chen.

As Zhao searched for restaurant locations, Algonquin Commons emerged as the most suitable spot. The large space at 1740 S. Randall Road allows for ample seating and kitchen equipment.

“It’s on a corner which will help attract customers,” Zhao said. “Also, this is an excellent shopping center. Lots of people visit day and night.”

The new restaurant will feature a 70-inch Mongolian natural gas grill on which chefs can grill 10 dishes at a time. Jiang’s also will feature classic ingredients like chicken, beef, shrimp and scallops.

Noodle dishes and vegetarian options also will be available, and Zhao plans to offer 20 different kinds of sauces.

“I believe I can offer a different and healthy food to the great people of Algonquin,” said Zhao. If Jiang's succeeds, Zhao would consider opening another location in the area.