Hotate Scallop Sushi: Raw vs Seared

Hotate (帆立) is the Japanese scallop — one of the sweetest things on a sushi menu. Served raw it is silky and delicate; seared (aburi) it turns caramelised and nutty. Both are worth ordering.

At a glance. Raw: sweet, silky, clean ocean flavour. Seared (aburi): caramelised edges, warmer, richer. Best origin: Hokkaido. In Hong Kong: Sushiro's platter, sen-ryo's Hokkaido jumbo scallop, Kerry Hotel's weekend buffet.

Raw hotate

Raw scallop is served as a single thick disc or split into two thinner slices across the nigiri. The texture is soft and almost creamy, with natural sweetness. Chefs often add a touch of salt, citrus or a thin brush of nikiri rather than soy.

Seared hotate

A quick torch browns the surface and releases more sweetness. Seared scallop often comes with a little mayo, butter-soy or salt. It is a good choice for diners who are nervous about raw texture.

Hokkaido scallops

Hokkaido is Japan's main scallop region and the benchmark for sushi. Hong Kong's ban on seafood from ten Japanese prefectures, in place since 24 August 2023, does not include Hokkaido. See Japanese seafood sourcing.

Where to try it in Hong Kong

Sushiro's 4-kind sashimi platter (HKD 70) includes Japanese scallop. sen-ryo's 42-piece Special Sushi Platter features Hokkaido jumbo scallop. Kerry Hotel's weekend Japanese buffet adds Hokkaido scallop until 30 November 2026. Sushiro's LOHAS Park opening sold whole Japanese scallops at HKD 17.

Order both ways. Raw first, then seared — the contrast shows off how versatile scallop is.

Freshness check: raw scallop should be glossy, ivory to pale peach, with a clean sweet smell. Avoid anything dull, grey or fishy-smelling.

Shellfish allergy. Scallops are shellfish. Tell staff before you order, and remember that sushi counters share boards and knives. See shellfish allergy.

Common questions

Is raw scallop safe?

From reputable suppliers, generally yes, but it is still a raw high-risk food.

What is aburi hotate?

Torch-seared scallop sushi.

Where else can I look?

See our sushi fish guide.

Compiled by our editorial team from Japanese seafood and sushi references, chain and restaurant menus, and Hong Kong food safety guidance, retrieved September 2026. Seasons vary by region and year. General information only, not medical or dietary advice.