Austin Shake Joins the Renowned Shake Family Flagship Restaurant, Old Fisherman’s Grotto
Austin Shake Joins the Renowned Shake Family Flagship Restaurant, Old Fisherman’s Grotto, Now Celebrating its 75th Anniversary in Monterey
April 24, 2025. Monterey, CA. Lisa and Chris Shake are proud to announce that their son, Austin Shake, a Monterey native and rising business professional, has officially joined the family’s legacy of hospitality excellence in the Monterey Bay region. Working alongside his father, the veteran restaurateur Chris Shake, Austin represents the next generation of leadership for the flagship restaurant, Old Fisherman’s Grotto, a business that has helped define the local dining experience for 75 years.
Raised in the vibrant atmosphere of his family’s landmark restaurants—including Old Fisherman’s Grotto, The Fish Hopper in Monterey and Kona, and Kokomo’s Grotto Fish Market, Austin absorbed the art of hospitality from a young age. After earning his degree in Business Management from the University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management, Austin launched a successful career in residential real estate, working in some of Southern California’s most competitive luxury markets.
Now back in his hometown of Monterey, Austin brings with him not only strong business acumen and a passion for service, but also a deep appreciation for the traditions that shaped his upbringing. As he steps into a leadership role within the Shake Family enterprises, Austin is committed to preserving the hallmark values of quality, service, and community engagement while helping the restaurants evolve to meet the tastes of a new generation of guests.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to return to the place that shaped who I am,” said Austin. “To have the opportunity to carry forward what my grandfather and father built, and to grow alongside my family, is both an honor and a responsibility I take to heart.”
Chris Shake, CEO of the Shake Family businesses, shared his excitement: “Seeing Austin step into the business is one of the proudest moments of my life. He grew up in our restaurants, and now he’s bringing new ideas, energy, and a deep respect for our family’s legacy. Our guests and staff will benefit from his leadership, and I know he will help guide us into a strong and successful future.”
Austin will work directly with his father, Chris Shake, who has spent his life building and expanding the family’s hospitality footprint in Monterey and beyond. A second-generation restaurateur, Chris began his career at the age of thirteen at Old Fisherman’s Grotto, the 44-seat restaurant on Old Fisherman’s Wharf founded by his parents, Isabella and the late Sabu Shake, Sr. Since then, Chris has led the creation and success of multiple acclaimed restaurants and retail establishments, and earned numerous awards for culinary excellence, sustainability, and philanthropy.
Together, Chris and Austin Shake represent a powerful blend of legacy and vision—honoring the past while preparing for a bright future.
For more information, visit www.oldfishermansgrotto.
About the Shake Family Businesses
Founded in 1950 on Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf, the Shake Family businesses are iconic fixtures of the Central Coast hospitality industry. Their restaurants are known for exceptional seafood, steaks, and pasta, served with oceanfront views and a commitment to top-tier service. With locations in Monterey and Hawaii, and a tradition of philanthropy and sustainability, the Shake Family remains dedicated to elevating the guest experience for locals and visitors alike.