Hong Kong’s leading Chinese restaurants have launched an aggressive round of discounts on fresh Alaskan king crab this autumn, with prices plunging to as low as HK$168 per catty. Beginning early November, at least six major chains—including Harbour Restaurant, Tea Palace, Tao Heung Group, and Fook Yuen Group—are competing for diners with limited-time offers on live, ocean-fresh crab. Whether patrons seek budget-friendly single dishes, set menus for groups, or premium chef-prepared styles like steamed with chicken oil and Shaoxing wine, the current market presents exceptional value across the board.
A Surge in Seasonal Seafood Competition
The annual arrival of Alaskan king crab season typically sees higher prices, but this year multiple restaurant groups have slashed rates by up to HK$150 per catty compared to usual menu prices. Industry observers note that the discounts reflect both an oversupply of imported crab and a bid to attract cost-conscious diners amid a sluggish economy. For consumers, the timing is ideal: autumn is traditionally the peak period for enjoying rich, sweet crab meat.
Breaking Down the Best Deals Across Six Chains
Harbour Restaurant: Entry-Level Pricing at HK$168 Per Catty
Harbour Restaurant has rolled out its lowest offer of the year. Small female king crabs are priced at HK$168 per catty, while larger male specimens cost HK$188 per catty. The chain emphasizes that all crabs are air-freighted directly to Hong Kong, ensuring freshness and creamy roe. The promotion runs from November 2 across all branches, but applies only to dine-in regular seating. Takeaway or private room orders incur an extra HK$40 per catty. Tea charge and 10% service fee also apply. Stock is limited.
Tea Palace: Live Seafood Tank Selection at HK$188 Per Catty
Tea Palace has slashed its original price of HK$338 per catty by nearly half, offering Alaskan king crab at HK$188 per catty at most outlets (HK$198 at the To Kwa Wan branch). Each crab weighs at least 3.5 catties, with thick legs and firm flesh. Customers can personally select their crab from the restaurant’s live seafood tank, ensuring transparency. Extra charges apply for takeaway or private rooms.
Tao Heung Group: Early Evening Discounts for Families
Tao Heung Group joins the price battle with a HK$188 per catty offer, down from HK$338. This deal is strictly limited to dine-in regular seating during the 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM dinner period—ideal for early-bird diners. Takeaway or private room orders rise to HK$238 per catty. Not combinable with other promotions, and available only at designated branches while supplies last.
Kam Yuen Restaurant: Set Menu Featuring King Crab and Peking Duck
Located in Mongkok, Kam Yuen offers a seafood combo set starting at HK$898. The package includes a whole steamed Alaskan king crab weighing about 4 catties, paired with a choice of Peking duck two-ways (set B), a whole crispy suckling pig (set A, HK$998), or Australian rock lobster (set D, HK$898). These sets are available for lunch and dinner, dine-in only, with additional charges for tea, pickles, and service.
Fook Yuen Group: Five Branches at Uniform HK$188 Per Catty
Fook Yuen Group operates five outlets across Chai Wan, Sheung Shui, Hung Hom, Tseung Kwan O, and Cheung Sha Wan, all offering king crab at a flat HK$188 per catty for dine-in. No takeaway or self-pickup option is available. Service charge applies. The straightforward pricing allows groups to order flexibly alongside other dishes.
Maxim’s Chinese Cuisine: Premium Bering Sea Crab with Chef Upgrades
Maxim’s takes a higher-end approach, sourcing king crab from the pristine Bering Strait. Dine-in price starts at HK$268 per catty (regularly HK$388), while takeaway is HK$298 per catty. For an additional HK$98, customers can opt for premium preparations: steamed with chicken oil and Shaoxing wine, crab-juice braised E-fu noodles, or crab roe fried rice. Offer valid at all Maxim’s Palace, Chui Garden, August Flower, Ying Yue Lau, and Tsui Yu Xuan outlets.
Key Terms and Conditions to Consider
Before diving in, diners should note the following:
- Dine-in only for most deals; takeaway and private rooms typically incur surcharges of HK$40–$50 per catty.
- Time restrictions apply, especially for Tao Heung (5–8:30 PM) and some sets.
- Service charges and tea fees are often excluded from the listed price.
- Limited stock is common—early reservations are recommended.
What This Means for Hong Kong Food Lovers
The current price war offers a rare opportunity for seafood enthusiasts to enjoy premium Alaskan king crab at near-historic lows. Families, friend groups, and solo diners alike can choose between budget-friendly per-catty orders or comprehensive set meals that pair crab with other classic dishes. As restaurants continue to compete for foot traffic, consumers can expect similarly aggressive promotions on other seasonal seafood in the coming months.
For the latest updates, readers are encouraged to check individual restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm availability and terms. This autumn, Hong Kong’s dining scene has never been more accessible—or more delicious.