Monikered “Las Vegas of the East”, Macao is an epicenter of glitz and luxury. While gaming and entertainment here is world-class, with opulent addresses MGM, The Parisian, The Venetian, to name a few, the city has much more to offer than that with a heritage marked by Portuguese governance for over 300 years. Macao is defined by wonderful cultural hybridity of European, Chinese, and Macanese influences that manifests itself in all aspects of life; and when you’re hungry, the city offers treats from the world over spanning all flavors under the sky. The smell of the contemporary Chinese cuisine at the La Chine restaurant inside a half-size replica of the Eiffel Tower, the taste of delicate Indian flavors at Michelin star awarded -The Golden Peacock, the touch of a slice of Italy in contemporary setting at Portofino, the sound of the crackly top as you scoop into that perfectly made Crème Brûlée at The Parisian’s Brasserie and the sight of a range of international cuisine atop Macao Tower at Sky 21 with breathtaking views of the city, here the universe is at your fingertips and your senses the first to tingle. Last year when my partner and I scored an invite to visit the city that attracts some 30 million visitors a year, we were expecting to be drawn by its pastel baroque churches, ancient Chinese temples and (mostly) vast establishments that dwarf even Las Vegas’s; little did we know we will come back with food memories of a lifetime. Here are personal recommendations of 5 restaurants in Macao that guarantee a gastronomic experience.
La Chine
Located on the 6th floor of The Parisian Macao’s Eiffel Tower, La Chine offers diners a panoramic view of Cotai Strip while they enjoy elegant fine dining. Guests can experience signature French influenced Chinese dishes in a genuine French atmosphere.
Address: Level 6, Eiffel Tower, The Parisian Macao
Brasserrie
Brasserie at The Parisian Macao features some of France’s most popular and authentic dishes, made from recipes honed to perfection through the centuries and set in the restaurant’s remarkable decor.
Address: Level 3 , The Parisian Macao
Portofino
A wonderful slice of Italy at Portofino serving Italian classics – fresh seafood, pasta and piping hot pizzas in a stylish and contemporary setting.
Address: Shop 1039, The Venetian Macao Level 1 (near The Venetian Theatre)
The Golden Peacock
Since opening in February 2013, The Golden Peacock has been a popular choice among visitors and a hit with food critics. It has received a one-star rating in the Michelin Guide for Hong Kong & Macau since 2014 and is listed in the Hong Kong Tatler Best Restaurants guide for 2016.
Address: Shop 1037, The Venetian Macao Level 1 (near Cotai Arena)
360° Café:
360° Café is a gourmet’s delight, the views over Macau are spectacular and you can see it all unfold before you as the restaurant slowly rotates!
Address: 60/F, Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Centre
