Hong Kong's longest-opening Indian restaurant and popular Michelin Guide-listed dining landmark, Gaylord Indian Restaurant celebrated its 50th anniversary in operation, hosting a duo of glittering evening events in early March.
The Silver Oak Group, which owns and operates the restaurant, thanked its loyal patrons and community for supporting for 50 years with a showcase of Celebrity Chef Sanjeev Kapoor's culinary expertise during the Golden Jubilee celebration of Gaylord Indian Restaurant, located in Tsim Sha Tsui.
Chef Kapoor hosted two successful nights of invitation-only access on Mar. 9 and 10, culminating in a grand finale cocktail night with a cooking show. The featured 50th Anniversary canapés from the Tasting Menu, together with Golden Jubilee cocktails.
Gaylord Indian Restaurant/Prawn Balchao Puri with Solkadhi
Silver Oak Group Mixologist Vincent Chue presented three golden jubilee celebratory beverage specials: a home-infused Gin “RUKMAMAYA,” meaning ‘made of gold’ in Hindi, “ROSE-ROYALE,” a sparkling cocktail with gold dust, and “OLDIE GOLDIE,” a smoky bourbon and Indian rum cocktail.
Gaylord Indian Restaurant/Oldie Goldie Cocktail
Continuing the celebrations, Celebrity Chef Kapoor’s Golden Anniversary Tasting Menu, including the unique delicacies of his innovative Indian gastronomy, will be offered for dining at Gaylord from Mar. 13 for a limited six-month period.
Gaylord Indian Restaurant/Kari Patta Crab Malabari
Gaylord Indian Restaurant, which literally means "Happy God" in Hindi, was established as an authentic fine-dining Indian restaurant in 1972 to cater to the demand for high-quality Indian cuisine among both expatriates and the local Indian community.
Over the decades, the restaurant has prospered and expanded to other locations. The respected Harilela family owned and operated the restaurant for 34 years, and Rajeev Bhasin, who has managed Gaylord for over 31 years, co-founded the Silver Oak Group, which presently owns and operates the restaurant.
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If pumpkin spice isn’t cutting it this Halloween, Auntie Sweet has something much darker in mind. The beloved dessert brand has unveiled its new Dubai Black Sesame Paste Kakigori, a Halloween-themed creation that taps into the viral black sesame craze while leaning fully into the spooky season.
The towering shaved ice dessert is designed to look like a quirky one-eyed monster, with every serving individually hand-styled by the kitchen team. No two creations are exactly alike, making each one delightfully creepy in its own way.
Beneath the striking black exterior is a mix of rich and nutty flavors, featuring homemade Dubai Black Sesame Paste, black sesame ice cream, black sesame brittles, and tofu pudding. The monster’s expressive face is finished with silky pumpkin cream, while crunchy “Deep Fried Ghost” crisps add texture and a playful Halloween touch.
Photo by Instagram/Auntie Sweet
For black sesame fans looking to go all in, the seasonal lineup extends beyond the kakigori. Auntie Sweet is also serving a range of Dubai black sesame desserts inspired by the crunchy kataifi-filled treats that have taken social media by storm, including a Dubai Black Sesame Tofu Shake (HK$40) and a Dubai Black Sesame Mochi Roll (HK$48).
The Halloween special is available from now until Nov. 5, 2026, at Auntie Sweet’s Causeway Bay, Diamond Hill, and Mong Kok branches, while the wider Dubai black sesame dessert range is available across all locations.
For more information and new menu reveals, follow Auntie Sweet on Instagram.
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If you're always on the lookout for your next dessert fix, Butterfly Patisserie has something worth adding to your calendar. From Oct. 14-18, 2026, the acclaimed pastry boutique will be hosting a limited-time pop-up featuring its newest collection, "Les Choux."
Inspired by the beloved French pastry, the collection highlights the contrast of textures that makes choux so irresistible. Each piece features a light, golden shell paired with a velvety custard center, thoughtfully crafted to balance richness and lightness in every bite.
The collection is available in three flavor combinations: Vanilla, Chocolate & Hojicha, and Taro & Coconut. Whether you're drawn to classic pastry flavors or curious about combinations with an Asian twist, the lineup offers a fresh take on a French favorite.
While the choux may be the star of the show, Butterfly Patisserie is no stranger to drawing dessert enthusiasts through its doors. Nestled inside Rosewood Hong Kong, the boutique is known for its chocolates, pastries, and cakes, and is led by Executive Pastry Chef Jonathan Soukdeo, with La Liste's World's Best Afternoon Tea Award 2025 among its accolades.
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The local cocktail scene has another reason to celebrate, as the World’s No. 1 Bar is still in Hong Kong!
At the 18th edition of The 50 Best Bars 2026, sponsored by Perrier awards ceremony in Milan, Bar Leone was crowned The World’s Best Bar for the second consecutive year, cementing its place as one of the most influential drinking destinations in Asia and rest of the world. The Central hotspot, led by Lorenzo Antinori, first made history as the first Asian bar to reach No. 1 globally in 2025 and has now successfully defended its title in 2026.
The city also reclaimed its status as Asia’s most represented cocktail capital, with four Hong Kong bars securing places on this year’s list. Joining Bar Leone at No. 1 are Argo at No. 25, while newcomers Montana and Gokan debuted at No. 36 and No. 41, respectively. Gokan founder Shingo Gokan also received the prestigious Roku Industry Icon Award for his contribution to the global cocktail industry. Representing Mainland China, Hope & Sesame Guangzhou earned the No. 12 spot on the list.
Courtesy of 50 Best Bars
Beyond Hong Kong, the rankings highlighted standout bars from across the world. Milan’s Moebius Milano was named The Best Bar in Europe and placed No. 2 overall, while Cartagena’s Alquímico ranked No. 3 and earned The Best Bar in South America title. Bangkok’s Bar Us landed at No. 4, followed by Athens’ sustainability champion Line at No. 5.
Joining Bar Us were fellow Bangkok bars Dry Wave Cocktail Studio at No. 21 and BKK Social Club at No. 30. Singapore's Jigger & Pony ranked at No. 18 and Nutmeg & Clove at No. 38.
Several special awards were also handed out during the evening. Mexico City’s Bar Mauro earned the Highest New Entry Award at No. 10, New York’s Schmuck took Best New Opening, and Barcelona’s legendary Paradiso received the Rémy Martin Legend of the List Award.
Courtesy of 50 Best Bars
Altogether, the 2026 rankings featured bars from 26 cities, reflecting the growing diversity and creativity shaping cocktail culture worldwide. For more details, visit The 50 Best website and follow them on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook.
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K11 MUSEA and K11 Art Mall have teamed up with Two Moons Distillery for "Taste of GIN-dulgence," a limited-time series of 12 food-and-gin pairings running from now through Nov. 30, 2026.
The program brings together 12 restaurants across the two K11 destinations, each serving a signature dish with a cocktail built around Two Moons gin. Gin is not treated as an afterthought or a side character; rather, each place brings a full flavor experience: citrus, tea, ginger, and floral botanical notes are used to sharpen, soften, or contrast with what is on the plate.
At UNAGI YONDAIME KIKUGAWA, for example, the Ippon Hitsumabushi Set is paired with "Moonlit," made with Ginger Gin, mirin, yuzu, honey, and soda. The bright drink is designed to cut through the rich, broiled eel. Yung's Bistro takes a similarly refreshing approach with "The Salisbury Jade," combining Calamansi Gin, Seedlip Garden 108, cucumber, sparkling oolong, lime, and watercress honey alongside deep-fried shrimp balls.
Other pairings lean richer or more playful. Glasshouse Greenery serves BBQ Peking Duck Pizza with "Dandy Butcher," a spirit-forward mix of Signature Dry Gin, Yuk Bing Siu, dry vermouth, red date, and chocolate bitters. At Hearth Yakiniku by ATUM, A5 Japanese Miyazaki Wagyu Chuck Rib comes with a Calamansi Gin cocktail featuring apple cider, black tea, and lemon juice to balance the indulgent Wagyu.
The lineup also includes Japanese, Cantonese, and contemporary dishes at restaurants such as KAIYŌ, Sushi Masa, Dab-Pa, Golden Blossoms, Greyhound Cafe Galleria, VELO, HOW To Live Well, and Shiawase Yakitori.
(From left) Yung's Bistro pairing and Glasshouse Greenery pairing | Photo from Website/K11 Musea
Beyond the restaurant pairings, K11 MUSEA is hosting two "Moonlit Sips" guest bartender takeovers.
KT Lam, Bar Director at Rosewood Bangkok, takes over Yung's Bistro on Oct. 9, 2026, from 5:30 to 8:30 PM. Lam oversees Lennon's, which is ranked No. 7 on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2026.
On Nov. 13, bartender Antonio Lai, Co-Founder of Quinary, Draft Land, and The Opposites, will helm UNAGI YONDAIME KIKUGAWA from 7 to 10 PM, pairing his cocktails with the restaurant's unagi.
There is also a perk for KLUB 11 members. From Oct. 12 to Nov. 30, 2026, members can access dining privileges at more than 30 selected restaurants across K11 MUSEA and K11 Art Mall, with up to HK$1,200 in dining discounts.
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Carmela is bringing the Côte d’Azur to the dinner table this October with Chez Carmela: A Night on the Riviera, the latest edition of the restaurant's monthly Dinner Series.
Taking place on Oct. 6, 2026, the French Riviera-inspired evening features a multi-course set menu priced at HK$688 per person, with special wine pours also available. The lineup leans into the coastal flavors of Southern France.
Dinner starts with a spread of hors d'oeuvres designed for sharing, including Oregano Sourdough Fougasse with Ratatouille, Fried Zucchini Flowers with red pepper and goat cheese, Artichokes à la Barigoule, and Pissaladière.
From there, guests can get a bowl of Bouillabaisse with Rouille Toast, followed by Spaghetti tossed with prawns, bottarga, garlic, and olive oil.
The main event is served family-style, with diners choosing one centerpiece for the table: either Whole Seabream with fennel and tomato or Roasted Lamb Rump with olive tapenade and eggplant. Herbed potatoes with aioli come alongside.
Dessert keeps things bright with a Lemon Meringue Tart scented with rosemary.
Wine plays its own supporting role in the evening. Bottles from Maison Mirabeau have been hand-selected by Simone to accompany the menu.
This limited-time dinner fits neatly into Carmela's broader approach to Southern Mediterranean cooking. From the team behind FRANCIS, the restaurant centers its menu on generous, flavor-forward food rooted in tradition but presented with a more contemporary touch.
For more information, visit Carmela's website or follow them on Instagram.
Chez Carmela: A Night on the Riviera
Location: Carmela, G06, Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Voeux Road Central
Date: Oct. 6, 2026
Price: HK$688 per person
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Looking for your next go-to bar? Hong Kong’s cocktail scene is about to get a major shake-up, as Rosewood Hong Kong has recently revealed its plan to launch a new bar concept later this year. What makes this announcement exciting is that the upcoming bar will be developed exclusively for the hotel with the help of Lorenzo Antinori and Justin Shun Wah, the names behind Bar Leone, which was named The World’s 50 Best Bar in 2025 and maintains the Best Bar in Hong Kong 2026 title for the 3rd year in a row.
The project is slated to open in November 2026, bringing together two heavyweight names in luxury hospitality and cocktails. On one side is Rosewood Hong Kong, which topped The World’s 50 Best Hotels rankings in both 2025 and 2026. On the other is Bar Leone, the neighborhood bar that has quickly become one of the industry's biggest success stories.
For now, details about the venue remain under wraps. Rosewood has only described the concept as "an exciting new chapter for cocktail culture in Hong Kong," leaving cocktail enthusiasts to speculate about what the duo and the hotel has in store.
The hotel has already kicked off a teaser campaign on Instagram for those who want a glimpse of the upcoming project ahead of its official unveiling.
More information is expected to arrive in late October according to the post, so keep an eye on Rosewood Hong Kong's Instagram for sneak peeks and upcoming announcements.
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One of Hong Kong’s most acclaimed destinations for plant-based fine dining has found a new home. YUAN, the city’s first modern Chinese vegetarian fine dining concept by Lubuds® Group, officially opened its doors in Tsim Sha Tsui on Sept. 28, 2026, following its departure from its long-running Hollywood Road location in Central.
Previously tucked inside Chinachem Hollywood Centre, the Michelin-recommended restaurant has relocated to the landmark FWD House 1881 Main Building, bringing its refined allium-free vegetarian cuisine to one of the city’s most historic settings. Surrounded by Victorian-era architecture, YUAN continues its philosophy of celebrating nature through seasonal, plant-based ingredients transformed into elegant contemporary Chinese dishes.
YUAN is open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, with menus ranging from a HK$388 three-course lunch to an eight-course tasting menu priced at HK$898. For reservations and more information, call +852 4629 3560, book online via Inline, or follow YUAN on Instagram and Facebook.
Location: YUAN, G/F, FWD House 1881 Main Building, 2A Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
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From beer halls and harbourfront pop-ups to racecourse parties and family-friendly festivals, Hong Kong is going all out for Oktoberfest this year. Whether you're looking for free-flow brews, Bavarian comfort food, live Oompah bands, or stein-holding contests, the city is packed with celebrations throughout October.
Here's our guide to the best Oktoberfest events in Hong Kong for 2026, featuring German beer, hearty fare, and plenty of reasons to say "Prost!"
Hong Kong Football Club (HKFC) Oktoberfest
Photo by Website/HKFC
If you're in the mood for a lively Oktoberfest celebration, HKFC Oktoberfest is bringing Bavarian cheer to the Bier Hall at Hong Kong Football Club on Oct. 3, 2026, from 7 PM until midnight. The Sports Hall will transform into a festive bier hall filled with communal long tables, traditional décor, and plenty of Oktoberfest spirit.
Tickets are priced at HK$498 for adults and HK$398 for children aged 4-11, with a hearty German buffet included. Expect authentic Bavarian fare, a cash bar serving beer and other drinks, and live entertainment from acclaimed German folk band Die Notenhobler, who will keep the atmosphere buzzing all night.
Guests are encouraged to dress in lederhosen or dirndls, and every ticket also includes a chance to win tickets to the Got Balls Halloween Party on Oct. 31.
Hong Kong Football Club (HKFC) Oktoberfest Bier Hall, Hong Kong Football Club Sat, October 3 7:00 PM
onwards
Raise a stein at HKFC Oktoberfest on Oct. 3, 2026, with authentic German food, live folk music, Bavarian traditions, and plenty of beer.
Happy Wednesday: Oktoberfest & Beerfest
Photo by HKJC
Looking for a midweek excuse to celebrate? Happy Wednesday's Oktoberfest and Beerfest are taking over the Happy Valley Racecourse across three Wednesday nights this month, with Oktoberfest happening on Oct. 7, 2026, followed by Beerfest on Oct. 14 and 21, 2026.
The opening night features German folk band Die Notenhobler, Oktoberfest dancers, and a ceremony led by Dr. Annika Bolten-Drutschmann, the Consul General of Germany to Hong Kong and Macau, and Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, the Chief Executive Officer of The Hong Kong Jockey Club. Later dates also spotlight live performances by nine-piece band PENTHAŪS and powerhouse vocalist MsLolo.
Between races, guests can join the Beer Tasting Challenge, pose at themed photo installations, and tuck into German favorites like roasted pork knuckle, pretzels, and sauerbraten, paired with brews from Löwenbräu, Paulaner, and Erdinger. Reservations are available via bookingrc.hkjc.com.
Disclaimer: Racecourse entrants and those who bet must be aged 18 or above. Don't gamble your life away.
Happy Wednesday: Oktoberfest & Beerfest Happy Valley Racecourse Wed, October 7 6:00 PM
onwards
Celebrate Oktoberfest and Beerfest at Happy Valley Racecourse on Oct. 7, 14, and 21, 2026, with racing, live music, German food, beer, and festive entertainment.
Oktoberfest 2026 at Central Market
Photo by Website/Chef's Market
If you're looking to channel Oktoberfest energy all month long, Oktoberfest 2026 at Central Market Oasis runs from Oct. 8-31, 2026, bringing Bavarian food, beer, and entertainment to the heart of Central.
The festival takes place from 6 PM to 10 PM, every Monday to Saturday, with family-friendly activities like games, face painting, arts and crafts, and dance sessions on Sundays from 3 PM to 7 PM. Tickets start at HK$220 for weekday admission, while Sunday entry is HK$200 for adults and HK$130 for children.
Expect authentic German fare from Chef's Market and Stormies, including crispy pork knuckle, award-winning sausages, and Vienna apple strudel, paired with brews from Löwenbräu and Franziskaner Weissbier. German folk band Die Notenhobler also returns to keep the atmosphere lively, so don't miss out!
Oktoberfest 2026 Central Market Oasis, Stormies Thu, October 8 6:00 PM
- 10:00 PM
Raise a stein at Oktoberfest 2026 from Oct. 8-31, 2026, at Central Market Oasis, with German food, beer, live folk music, and family-friendly festivities.
FRITES Oktoberfest Party 2026
Photo by Instagram/Frites
Round up your friends and head to FRITES Oktoberfest Party 2026 on Oct. 10, 2026, where FRITES Central transforms into a lively Bavarian-style celebration from 6 PM to 11 PM.
Priced at HK$550 per person, tickets include five hours of free-flow drinks, with Löwenbräu beer, Prosecco, house wines, mimosas, soft drinks, and juices pouring throughout the night. Expect plenty of entertainment beyond the drinks, including live dance performances, traditional Oktoberfest-inspired games, prize challenges, and a high-energy party atmosphere.
When hunger strikes, an exclusive Oktoberfest menu featuring crispy pork knuckle, Bavarian sausages, warm salted pretzels, and apple strudel is available, alongside FRITES' regular à la carte offerings. Get your tickets now!
FRITES Oktoberfest Party 2026 FRITES Belgium on Tap Sat, October 10 6:00 PM
- 11:00 PM
Celebrate Bavarian traditions at FRITES Oktoberfest Party 2026 on Oct. 10, 2026, with free-flow drinks, live entertainment, games, and German fare.
BaseHall Oktoberfest 2026
Photo by Website/Young Master
Looking for a spirited Oktoberfest celebration in the heart of Central? BaseHall Oktoberfest 2026 returns to BaseHall 01 on Oct. 10, 2026, bringing Bavarian beer hall energy to the city from 6 PM until late. Expect all the festival essentials, from a traditional keg-tapping ceremony and live Oompah band performances to carnival games and the crowd-favorite stein-holding competition.
German-inspired bites and snacks will be available throughout the night, while DJs keep the atmosphere buzzing well into the evening. Tickets start at HK$200 for early bird admission, with standard tickets at HK$238 and door entry priced at HK$260. Each ticket includes a 500ml pint of Young Master Festbier, brewed exclusively for Oktoberfest, and a commemorative 500ml Young Master German stein glass.
BaseHall Oktoberfest 2026 BaseHall 01 Sat, October 10 6:00 PM
onwards
Raise a stein at BaseHall Oktoberfest 2026 on Oct. 10, 2026, with Festbier, live Oompah music, Bavarian games, and German-inspired bites.
San Miguel x The Pontiac: An Oktoberfest Takeover
Courtesy of Midnight Espresso
Looking for an Oktoberfest celebration with a little more edge? San Miguel x The Pontiac: An Oktoberfest Takeover is bringing a high-energy, Hong Kong-inspired spin to the Bavarian tradition on Oct. 18, 2026, from 4 PM to 8 PM at The Pontiac. Admission is free, and guests who RSVP via Eventbrite can claim one complimentary San Miguel beer on arrival.
The drinks are only part of the fun. Throughout the afternoon, guests can sip on exclusive San Miguel serves, including a Michelada and a Beer-Campari cocktail, while digging into The Pontiac's signature wieners topped with a custom San Miguel beer sauce. Adding to the party atmosphere is an "unhinged" Oktoberfest bingo challenge that encourages guests to complete challenges, mingle with fellow attendees, and compete for bragging rights.
San Miguel x The Pontiac: An Oktoberfest Takeover The Pontiac Sun, October 18 4:00 PM
- 8:00 PM
Forget traditional tents and standard pints—this localized Bavarian takeover mixes the heritage of San Miguel with the energy of The Pontiac. RSVP for your first beer on us!
Second Draft Oktoberfest - Pouring Again
Courtesy of Second Draft & Friends
Beer lovers won't want to miss the return of Second Draft Oktoberfest - Pouring Again on Oct. 24, 2026, with a full day of Bavarian-inspired festivities at Second Draft & Friends. The celebration begins with a free family- and pet-friendly session from 12 PM to 5 PM, before shifting into a lively ticketed Oktoberfest party from 5 PM to midnight.
Building on the success of its sold-out debut, this month's edition places equal emphasis on beer, food, and atmosphere. The evening features an exclusive Yardley Brothers festbier, live performances from a Euro oompah band, and a lineup of games and singalongs that capture the energy of a traditional Bavarian gathering. Expect a generous spread of German-inspired dishes alongside Second Draft favorites, plus cocktails, wines, spirits, shooters, and non-alcoholic options for those who want a change of pace.
Early bird tickets, with prices at HK$120 for standard admission and HK$150 for VIP, are available until Oct. 12, 2026. Each ticket includes one 500ml festbier, while VIP ticketholders also receive a surprise gift bag.
Second Draft Oktoberfest - Pouring Again Second Draft & Friends Sat, October 24 5:00 PM
- 12:00 AM
ROUND TWO. LET'S PROST AGAIN! OKTOBERFEST: THE SECOND DRAFT returns October 24th!
Oktoberfest Celebration: Docktoberfest at Dockyard
Photo by Website/Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong
For a waterfront take on Oktoberfest, Docktoberfest at Dockyard is bringing Bavarian-inspired food, beer, and entertainment to Dockyard at Kerry Hotel Hong Kong from Sept. 28 to Oct. 31, 2026.
Running every Friday and Saturday throughout the promotion period, this month-long celebration pairs harbourfront vibes with classic Oktoberfest traditions. The menu highlights German favorites such as shredded pork knuckle with crispy potato wedges, pork schnitzel burgers, German wurst platters, and Bavarian pretzels. There will also be live music and complimentary game coupons that give guests a chance to join a beer stein holding competition, beer drinking contest, and beer cup pushing game, with prizes up for grabs.
Guests can opt for a 3-Hour Beer Free Flow Package (HK$350), an Individual Beer Combo Set (HK$240) with two pints and a German dish, or a Mega Beer Combo Set (HK$630) featuring six pints and a sharing platter.
Oktoberfest Celebration: Docktoberfest at Dockyard Dockyard, Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong Mon, September 28 6:00 PM
- 10:00 PM
Raise a stein at Docktoberfest at Dockyard from Sept. 28 to Oct. 31, 2026, with free-flow beer, German specialties, live music, and festival games.
Oktoberfest Macau at MGM 2026
Photo by Website/MGM
Oktoberfest Macau at MGM 2026 returns for its 16th edition from Oct. 28 to Nov. 8, 2026, taking over the 1/F Roof Terrace at MGM COTAI with Bavarian-style celebrations from 6 PM to midnight daily. The open-air festival blends traditional German hospitality with a distinctly Macau flair, featuring long communal tables, authentic fare such as roasted pork knuckle, roast chicken, and pretzels, plus plenty of Paulaner beer.
Live entertainment takes center stage this year, with German band SAKRISCH GUAT making its Macau debut and Cantomania bringing special Cantopop DJ Nights on Oct. 30 and 31. There will also be carnival games and interactive activities for everyone to enjoy.
Admission is MOP180 from Sunday to Thursday and MOP280 on Oct. 30 and 31, with each ticket including one beverage.
Oktoberfest Macau at MGM 2026 MGM COTAI Wed, October 28
-
Celebrate Bavarian traditions at Oktoberfest Macau at MGM 2026 from Oct. 28 to Nov. 8, 2026, with German beer, live music, food, and festival fun.
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Behold the hairy crab , Hong Kong’s undeniably beloved autumnal delight. Known for its rich, buttery roe and deeply indulgent meat, the hairy crab is a luxurious seasonal delicacy that is enjoyed in Hong Kong for only a limited time.
According to experts and tradition, the perfect season to enjoy the hairy crab is from early September to mid-December, with the season reaching its peak in October. And once the much-awaited season arrives each year, numerous restaurants in the city offer their own twist on one of the most celebrated crabs in Chinese cuisine.
But what exactly is hairy crab, and why is it so important in Chinese culture and in dining circles? From learning where it’s from to how to properly enjoy a crab, consider this a beginner’s guide to everything you need to know before cracking one open.
The Prized Hairy Crab
Courtesy of Duddell's Hong Kong
The Chinese mitten crab, more commonly known as the Jiangsu hairy crab, is a highly anticipated seasonal delicacy revered across Hong Kong and China. Renowned for its buttery, golden roe and deep umami flavor, this freshwater crab is named after the soft, fur-like hairs that line its claws.
Arriving at the peak of autumn, the hairy crab season is short but quite celebrated, marking a time for everyone to enjoy its luscious taste and traditional significance. For many, its arrival is a return to traditional dining and seasonal indulgence.
How and Where to Find the Best Crab
Photo from Website/Black Sheep Restaurants
When it comes to Chinese mitten crab, quality is key. Traditionally, the hairy crab is sourced from Yangcheng Lake in Jiangsu Province, where many believe the most premium crabs reside. In recent years, however, restaurants have been sourcing from other regions for ideal conditions.
For example, establishments like Jardin de Jade and The Legacy House have been sourcing their hairy crab from Taihu Lake in the Yangtze Delta, while others have also been exploring other regions and countries for their crab.
The best hairy crabs are known for more than just freshness alone. Factors like origin, seasonality, and balance play a crucial role, resulting in crabs with plump meat, generous roe, and a clean aroma that leans towards sweetness, which also define a prized catch.
And did you know that the hairy crab’s gender and when you want to eat them play a role in the flavor profile you’re looking for? Female crabs are usually preferred during the earlier part of the season and offer a milder and more subtle taste, while male crabs are preferred later in the season, offering more meat and creamy roe — the very thing hairy crab enthusiasts love about it.
How to Eat Hairy Crab
Courtesy of MOTT 32
Eating hairy crab can be a little daunting. But it's not rocket science. All you need is scissors, chopsticks, and a spoon. That's it.
First, start with the claw and legs. They cool down faster than the rest of the crab. Snip them off, crack or cut away the shell, and use your chopsticks to nudge out any stubborn meat. Try the first few bites plain to appreciate the crab's natural sweetness before dipping it into any sauce.
Next comes the main event. Lift the flap on the crab's underside, open the shell, and remove the inedible parts (gills, heart, and stomach). Note: the heart is the small, white, hexagon-shaped piece tucked between the gills. Once those are out of the way, spoon up the bright orange roe inside the top shell — and we all know that's the reason why everyone gets excited about hairy crab season. Break the body in half and enjoy the remaining meat and roe at your own pace.
For a classic sauce, Sheng Siong Supermarket revealed an easy mix: 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 2 tablespoons aged Zhejiang black vinegar, 1/2 tablespoon light soy sauce, and 1/2 tablespoon white or brown sugar. Finish with just three to five drops of sesame oil. Dip the leg meat as you go, or mix a little of the vinegar sauce with the crab meat and roe from the body.
Lastly, the final treasure is the pincer. Cut carefully along one side and peel away most of the shell to reveal the meat inside.
Hairy crab is all about embracing the mess and taking your time in extracting every bit of the goodness. While it can be daunting, you'll find it's easy if you don't rush the process.
Steamed Hairy Crabs with Dried Perilla Leaf | Courtesy of The Park Lane Hong Kong
The Best Way to Enjoy Hairy Crab
As most chefs and local connoisseurs will tell you, the best way to enjoy a fine delicacy like hairy crab is in its simplest form. Steamed whole and lightly seasoned, the crab should speak for itself — with its creamy roe, delicate meat, and natural sweetness taking center stage.
Restaurants like One MICHELIN-starred Duddell’s, MOTT 32, The Park Lane Hong Kong, Hutong, The Chinese Library, and Cruise Restaurant & Bar regularly roll out dedicated seasonal menus that spotlight the richness of hairy crab. Through thoughtful preparations and time-honored techniques, each one pays homage to this prized delicacy, capturing the hearts of diners and enthusiasts across the city.
Xialongbao with Hairy Crab Roe | Courtesy of Duddell's Hong Kong
At the end of the day, hairy crab isn’t just about luxury — it’s about timing and its place in tradition. With this year’s hairy crab season drawing to a close, it’s easy to understand why this beloved delicacy is a must-try every year.
Whether enjoyed simply through steamed preparations or reimagined through contemporary menus, the hairy crab remains a cherished tradition and celebration of autumn — one defined by indulgence, luxury, and culinary creativity.
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Netflix’s "Culinary Class Wars " is making its way from the screen to the dining table this October as Han Dining and Honjo join forces for “THE TABLE,” an exclusive collaboration featuring four breakout chefs from the first season of the hit Netflix series.
Co-presented by Yebisu, the event brings together fan favorites Chef Cho Kwang-Hyoe, Chef Chung Woo-young, Chef Chae Nak-young, and Chef Kim Byoung-mook, who will team up with Han Dining Executive Chef Cho Min Sung and Honjo Executive Chef Kyle Lee for a "high-energy, zero-pretension" dining takeover. Billed as an “anti-fine dining” experience, the collaboration swaps white-tablecloth formality for a lively kitchen takeover packed with chef interactions, playful creativity, and dishes designed to be shared around the table.
Priced at just HK$518 per person, the 14-dish menu features items such as Edamame and Shiso Tomato for the amuse-bouche; Sashimi & Korean “Namul,” Sashimi Salad, and Shrimp Chilled Noodle for the first course; and Mala Chicken Wings, Fish Taco, Tsukune Sando, and Ankimo Hosomaki for the second course.
Mains include “Bossam” and “Ssam,” Salmon Noodle, Spicy Intestine Soup, and Han Dining’s signature Bibimbap for “THE TABLE,” before ending on a sweet note with “THE TABLE” Ice Cream Sundae. The guest chef sessions will take place at Han Dining’s Mong Kok branch on Oct. 23 and 24, 2026, with dinner seatings at 6 PM and 8 PM.
Unsurprisingly, the guest chef sessions have already sold out. But don't fret! For foodies who have missed out a slot, there's still a way to get a taste of the collaboration as regular menu bookings are still open from Oct. 25 onwards, with the post-event menu available at both Han Dining’s Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok branches.
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