Among the many fish laid out on the cutting board, few draw the eye quite like this one.
Its elegant black stripes and golden hue make it look almost ornamental.
This fish is called Kagokakidai — a hidden gem in the hands of a sushi chef.

📖 What Is Kagokakidai?

Kagokakidai (Microcanthus strigatus) is a small coastal fish that belongs to the sea bass family.
It typically grows to about 20 cm, with a yellowish body marked by five bold black stripes.
Its name, which literally means “palanquin carrier sea bream,” comes from its humped back,
said to resemble the shoulders of the men who carried palanquins in the Edo period.
The fish lives in rocky coastal shallows and seaweed beds, spawning in spring and early summer.
From autumn through winter, it gains fat and reaches peak flavor — the best season to enjoy it.

🍽 Flavor and Culinary Appeal

Kagokakidai offers a refined, delicate white flesh with a pleasant depth of flavor.
When lightly cooked, the skin releases a gentle sweetness and aroma,
and when fresh and fatty, it becomes truly special.
It’s rarely seen in markets — a lucky catch for those who find it.

🔥 At Sushi Hatake — Served as Seared Sushi

At Sushi Hatake, we prepare Kagokakidai with great care,
searing the skin side to bring out its aroma and umami.
The gentle heat melts the fat beneath the skin,
creating a beautiful harmony between the sea’s natural sweetness and a hint of smokiness.
It’s especially delicious during the cooler months when the fish are at their fattiest.

💡 A Fish That Rewards the Chef’s Touch

Kagokakidai has very fine scales and requires delicate handling.
By carefully cleaning and scoring the skin, our chefs highlight its unique texture and flavor.
Under skilled hands, this striking striped fish transforms into a small story of the season —
a single bite that captures the sea’s fleeting beauty.

🌊 The Art of Holding a Season

For a sushi chef, preparing fish is more than a task — it’s a quiet conversation with the ocean.
We adjust the seasoning, temperature, and timing to find that one perfect moment of flavor.
This pursuit of seasonal perfection is what defines Sushi Hatake’s philosophy:
to capture the essence of the sea, one piece at a time.

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🍣 Private Sushi Catering by Sushi Hatake

Experience the finest seasonal fish, prepared right before your eyes by our professional chefs.
From Kagokakidai to other seasonal delicacies, we bring the freshness and craftsmanship of an authentic sushi bar to your home or event.
For special occasions or gatherings, let Sushi Hatake create a truly memorable dining experience.

▶︎ Reservations & Inquiries: https://sushi-farm.com

For authentic sushi experiences — choose Sushi Hatake.