Taipa Village offers escape from glitz and glamour of Cotai Strip

Macau is much more than the sum of its modern attractions and glitzy hotels: the centre of old Macau abounds with the architecture and character of a bygone era – a time when two vastly different cultures merged. The former Portuguese enclave once consisted of the Macau Peninsula and Taipa and Coloane islands – the latter two have since become one through reclamation work that created the Cotai Strip, Macau’s answer to Las Vegas.

The original Taipa Village has been well preserved, and it offers visitors a contrast to the glitz and glamour of the Cotai Strip. While the towering Galaxy Macau resort might seem a world away from the tree-lined Avenida da Praia, it neighbours Taipa Village in a juxtaposition of modernity and tradition.

Taipa Village has established itself as an important gastronomic centre along with its cultural and scenic pleasures. The village is home to more than 20 eateries of diverse cuisines – from traditional Chinese fare to cutting-edge Portuguese and Spanish offerings and, of course, Macanese food.

Among the recent arrivals is King’s Lobster restaurant whose signature dish is a mouth-watering fresh lobster served in a soft bun. They also serve grilled Boston lobster, pulled pork rolls, and their own twist on the burger.

For an authentic Macanese experience, head to Restaurante Portugues Pescador near Cunha Street. The chequered tiles and mobile tea stall say “teahouse”, while the Portuguese décor of the first floor offer a fine-dining experience. Here you can try everything from Portuguese spicy fish buns and clay pot milk tea to Portuguese pork knuckle served with fine Portuguese wines.