Best Hairy Crab Restaurant In Hong Kong
If you're a food lover planning a trip to Hong Kong, then you should definitely put trying a dish of hairy crab on your list. This classic Chinese delicacy is highly sought after for its delicate and sweet taste that bursts with flavor. Known for its velvety texture and signature roe, it's a must-try when visiting Hong Kong.
What is Hairy Crab?
Hairy crab, also known as Chinese mitten crab, is a freshwater crab found in the rivers and lakes of China. It's highly prized for its delicate, sweet meat and creamy golden roe. The crab got its name from the fine hair-like filaments that cover its claws and legs.
The best time to enjoy hairy crab is during autumn, when the crabs are in season and at their fattest. Between September and November, the crabs are harvested and served in restaurants all over Hong Kong. Many Chinese people believe that eating hairy crab during this time is good for health and well-being.
The Best Hairy Crab Restaurants in Hong Kong
When in Hong Kong, you'll be spoiled for choice as to where to try this local delicacy. Here are some of the best restaurants in Hong Kong that serve hairy crab:
1. Lai Heen
Located in The Ritz-Carlton hotel, Lai Heen is a Michelin-starred restaurant that's known for its exquisite Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant is renowned for its signature dish, the braised hairy crab with bird's nest and crab roe. The crab's creamy roe is mixed with bird's nest and steamed inside a crab shell, resulting in a luxurious and decadent dish.
2. Seventh Son
Located in Kowloon, Seventh Son is a classic Cantonese restaurant that's been around since 1968. The restaurant is known for its fresh, live hairy crabs that are cooked to perfection. The crabs are steamed and served with a side of sweet black vinegar dipping sauce, which complements the crab's natural sweetness.
3. Fook Lam Moon
Fook Lam Moon is an iconic Hong Kong restaurant that's been serving Cantonese cuisine for over 70 years. The restaurant is famous for its hairy crab dishes, which are cooked in a variety of ways. One of their most popular dishes is the braised hairy crab with vermicelli, which is cooked in a rich broth made from chicken, pork, and crab roe.
4. Tin Lung Heen
Tin Lung Heen is another Michelin-starred restaurant located in The Ritz-Carlton hotel. The restaurant is known for its contemporary Cantonese cuisine, which is prepared using traditional techniques and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their signature dish is the hairy crab dumplings, which are filled with a mixture of crab meat and roe and steamed to perfection.
Conclusion
If you're a foodie with a love for Chinese delicacies, then Hong Kong is the place to be when it comes to trying hairy crab. From Michelin-starred restaurants to classic Cantonese eateries, there's no shortage of places to indulge in this succulent dish. So why not add it to your bucket list and experience the taste of true Hong Kong cuisine?
