3 OF MACAU’S MOST QUINTESSENTIAL DISHES – AND WHERE TO TRY THEM ON YOUR NEXT VISIT

Explore Macau's unique culinary history by sampling quintessential dishes pastel de nata, minchi and tacho at Lord Stow's, Restaurante Litoral and Apomac

Nestled on the southern coast of China, Macau is a vibrant city with a rich culinary heritage. From the iconic pastel de nata to hearty minchi and comforting tacho, Macau's cuisine offers a tantalising blend of Portuguese and Chinese influences. In this three-part listicle, we explore the must-try dishes and the best places to savour them in this culinary paradise.

1. Pastel de nata

Egg tarts are likely the most famous treat in Macanese cuisine. Originally from Portugal, they are today found across the world in various forms. To try the authentic Macanese version, be sure to stop by a branch of either Lord Stow's or Koi Kei Bakery.

Where to try it?

Lord Stow's Bakery, various branches inc. 1 Rua do Tassara, Coloane Town Square, Macau; lordstow.com.
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Margaret's Cafe e Nata, 17B Rua do Comandante Mata e Oliveira, Kam Loi Building, Macau

2. Minchi

Every major Asian cuisine seems to have a signature minced meat dish of its own. Hong Kong has steamed minced pork cakes, Malaysia has nasi lemak, Thailand has pad kra pao. In Macau, minchi is a classic dish of fried pork or beef, served with fried potato cubes and rice, topped with a fried egg. Sample it at Restaurante Litoral, still going strong under the stewardship of the second generation of the family that opened it.

Where to try it?

Restaurante Litoral, Rua do Almirante Sergio, 261A, Macau

3. Tacho

If you are looking for a heartwarming simple stew, and are not averse to pork innards, this is a must-try. Almost a soup rather than a stew, it has hearty meat flavours front and centre due to the blend of pig parts such as skin and knuckles, with chicken wings and even Chinese sausage in place of the Portuguese chourico. Savour this stew at Apomac, a canteen for an association for retired locals that is open to all.

Where to try it?

Apomac, Avenida de SidOnio Pais, N° 49-B, R/C, Macau; fb.com/apmaccanteen