Macau, often referred to as the “Vegas of Asia”, is not just about glitzy casinos and stunning architecture. It’s also a food lover's paradise. This small but vibrant city is a melting pot of cultures, resulting in a unique culinary scene that blends Chinese, Portuguese, and other international flavors.

In 2017, Macau was recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy, which was in line with the Macau Central Government's strategy of developing the city into the 'World Centre of Tourism and Leisure'. The designation is set to endorse the global recognition of Macau‘s more than 400-year old culinary legacy. There is no better way to experience Macau’s unique gastronomy culture by eating around, from world-class restaurants to restaurants tucked away in nooks and crannies, to get a true taste of Macau.

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For high quality yet affordable eats, explore Rua do Cunha in Taipa Village, the home of Michelin Bib Gourmand-rated street food like pork chop buns, pork floss cakes, and almond cookies; or Rua da Felicidade with equally amazing pork and shrimp dumplings, curry fish balls, and so much more. But in a city with more Michelin Stars per area than anywhere in the world, choosing where to eat could be a daunting task. Here’s our list of must-try food and restaurants in Macau — from fine dining delights to hole-in-the-wall finds.

Lord Stow's Bakery - Begin your journey at Lord Stow's Bakery, home to the famous Portuguese Egg Tarts. These pastries, with their flaky crusts and caramelized tops, are a global sensation, offering a taste of Portuguese heritage in the heart of Macau.Lord Stow''s Bakery

Fernando’s - Enjoy Portuguese cuisine with a view at Fernando’s on Hac Sa Beach. Savor dishes like succulent suckling pig, garlic-infused clams, and grilled prawns that capture the essence of the ocean. With a relaxed beachfront setting, it's perfect for a leisurely meal. @chilipepper_titans

Sei Kee Cafe  - Sei Kee Cafe is renowned for its iconic pork chop bun. The thick egg omelette pairs perfectly with savory meat in a fluffy bun. Sei Kee Cafe 

Kam Lei - This local favorite serves bowls of noodles with homemade sauces and broths. Make sure to try the Chicken Curry Sauce, Braised Beef Sauce, and Cuttlefish Balls. @obxxob

Restaurante Litoral  - Restaurante Litoral offers the beloved Macanese dish Minchi, a minced meat delicacy with fried potatoes and a fried egg. They also serve other Macanese delights. Restaurante Litoral 

Riquexo - Riquexo introduces foodies to a unique Macanese dish: African Chicken. This succulent chicken, marinated in a rich, coconut-based sauce, is a delightful fusion of flavors from around the world.@imissapixel

O Santos - For quick, delicious street food, visit O Santos. They specialize in Bifanas, a Portuguese pork sandwich bursting with flavor.O Santos

A Petisqueira - A Petisqueira offers an authentic Macanese experience. Try dishes like Minchi, African Chicken, and Tamarind Pork in a cozy, traditional setting.@kuenmic

Koi Kei Bakery - Koi Kei Bakery is a must-visit for almond cookies, a popular Macanese souvenir. They come in various flavors, from classic almond to green tea.Koi Kei Bakery

Jade Dragon  - Jade Dragon at City of Dreams offers modern Cantonese dishes worthy of not just one but three Michelin Stars. Try their Crispy Suckling Pig with Caviar, Alaskan Crab, Prawn Har Gao, and Steamed Spotted Coral Grouper Fillet with Crispy Black Bean and Garlic. Jade Dragon 

Pearl Dragon - One-Michelin-Starred Pearl Dragon at Studio City excels in lychee wood barbecue and sweet and sour pork, offering an extensive tea selection to complement your meal. Pearl Dragon

Alain Ducasse at Morpheus - Alain Ducasse's restaurant at Morpheus Hotel offers intensely flavored, sophisticated dishes. A visit to this Three-Michelin-Starred establishment is best enjoyed through their degustacion menu.Alain Ducasse at Morpheus

Wing Lei Palace - Wing Lei Palace, a one-Michelin-starred restaurant at City of Dreams, features dishes like Typhoon shelter-style fried pigeon and bamboo fungus stuffed with asparagus.Wing Lei Palace

Robuchon au Dôme - Indulge in luxury at Robuchon au Dôme within the Grand Lisboa Hotel. This three-Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique blend of French and Asian cuisine in a lavish setting. Robuchon au Dôme

Sichuan Moon - Visit two-Michelin-starred Sichuan Moon at Wynn Palace for an exceptional culinary experience. Led by acclaimed chef André Chiang, this restaurant redefines Sichuan cuisine. Try their Freshwater Bream Belly with Pickled Mustard Greens.Sichuan Moon

The Kitchen - The Kitchen is a haven for meat lovers, offering prime cuts seared to perfection over an open flame. Do not miss out on their beef offers.The Kitchen

8 1/2 Otto e Mezzo - Bombana - Chef Riccardo La Perna brings the flavors of Sicily to Macau at 8 1/2 Otto e Mezzo - Bombana. Their Sicilian-inspired degustacion menu brings foodies from all over the world to Macau.8 1/2 Otto e Mezzo - Bombana

Feng Wei Ju - Feng Wei Ju offers a myriad of Sichuan and Hunanese dishes in an extravagant setting. Try their Boiled Mandarin Fish Filets in Chili Oil.Feng Wei Ju

Mizumi - Mizumi impresses with its exquisite sushi and shabu-shabu menus, using top-notch ingredients flown in from Japan. The Omakase Sushi Set Menu is a definite must-try.Mizumi

The 8 - With three Michelin Stars, The 8 should be a part of any foodie’s itinerary. The restaurant is adorned with traditional Chinese motifs, offering a fusion of Cantonese and Huaiyang cuisine. Their dim sum selection alone is already worthy of global accolades. The 8

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Visit Macau Tourism's official website for more information on food, tourism, and promotions.

Lead photo: Jimmy Woo on Unsplash