Seasonal crab Kaiseki at Shikigiku Japanese Restaurant at IFC Mall

Shikigiku at IFC Mall welcomes the arrival of the season with a special hairy crab kaiseki by executive chef Masahiro Noda. Served at the counter, the multi-course menu centres on prized Japanese hairy crab, prepared à la minute and finished in front of guests, a quietly theatrical expression of the restaurant’s traditional craft.

Sourced from the cold waters of the Sea of Japan, hairy crab is cherished for its naturally sweet, delicate meat and deep umami, as well as its fleeting seasonal availability. Small in size but rich in character, it is at its best when handled with precision and respect, qualities that define Noda’s approach throughout the kaiseki.

A standout is the steamed egg custard with hairy crab meat: a silken chawanmushi just set, its gentle warmth carrying the sweetness of the crab. The result is understated yet indulgent, a dish that lets the ingredient speak with clarity and grace.

Kamameshi rice with hairy crab (Photo: courtesy of Shikigiku Japanese Restaurant)

Steamed egg custard with hairy crab (Photo: courtesy of Shikigiku Japanese Restaurant)

Kamameshi rice with hairy crab is a quietly satisfying finale: rice cooked in an iron pot, gently infused with savoury broth and finished with generous flakes of sweet, briny crab. The result is deeply comforting, the richness of the crab settling into the grains for a dish that feels both grounding and indulgent.

Equally soothing is the hairy crab congee, slow-cooked until silky and light, its gentle sweetness making it nourishing without heaviness. It is the kind of dish that speaks to the restorative side of Japanese cooking—simple in appearance, thoughtful in execution.

At Shikigiku, executive chef Masahiro Noda continues to let seasonality guide his kitchen, shaping menus that balance technique with quiet restraint.

The eight-course Seasonal Hairy Crab Kaiseki is available at HK$2,480 per person (minimum four guests), subject to a 10% service charge.

Reservations should be made at least two days in advance by calling +852 2805 0600 or booking online via Optitable.