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We've compiled the best of the best in Downtown Macau - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Tucked into a charming cobblestone courtyard in Macau’s historic St. Lazarus district, Albergue 1601 serves up classic Portuguese flavors in a setting steeped in Luso culture. Chaves-born chef Pedro Almeida’s specialties—seafood rice stew, braised Ibérico pork cheek, piri piri chicken, grilled octopus bathed in garlic and olive oil—pair beautifully with a deep Portuguese wine list. When the weather’s right, dine alfresco beneath century-old camphor trees.
Part of the Macao University of Tourism (UTM), this restaurant is a training ground for students pursuing future careers in hospitality. They work in the kitchen, the bakery, and the front of the house on a variety of Macanese, Portuguese, and Western dishes, and they do it all at a high level. At lunch, order à la carte to try Macanese dishes like shrimp toast and chicken sautéed with turmeric and ginger, or come for dinner for the five-course set menu, including Macanese laksa, tamarind pork, and more made to pair with Portuguese wines.
A Macau institution since 1903, Fat Siu Lau keeps locals and visitors coming back for its legendary roasted pigeon, shek ki—a family recipe perfected over generations. Still run by its founding family, the restaurant blends classic Macanese flavors with modern creations, making it a popular stop for those craving a taste of history.
Lakeside Trattoria delivers classic Italian flavors in a scenic setting overlooking Nam Van Lake. Roman-style pizzas, handmade pastas, and seafood dishes shine, but don’t miss the chef’s lasagna with hearty meat ragù. End on a sweet note with Nutella pillows or scoop of rich gelato. When the weather is warm and breezy—basically anytime but summer—grab a veranda seat by the lake for the best experience.
Despite its Portuguese name, Portas do Sol is one of Macau’s top destinations for exquisite dim sum. Traditional favorites—barbecue pork buns, pan-fried turnip cakes, and delicate soup dumplings—share the menu with Chinese seasonal delicacies and haute cuisine creations. Desserts are just as refined, from fish-shape mango and coconut pudding to peanut-covered sticky rice dumplings filled with black sesame paste. With Hong Kong and mainland visitors packing the tables on weekends, reservations are a must.
