Macao's Culinary Excellence Takes Center Stage at ITB Berlin 2025
At ITB Berlin 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious travel trade fairs, Macao once again asserts its status as a global leader in gastronomy tourism. With its rich culinary heritage, a growing collection of Michelin-starred restaurants, and recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Macao’s commitment to the fusion of food and travel is stronger than ever.
Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office, emphasized the intrinsic link between gastronomy and tourism, stating, “People go to a place, do you want to try something authentic about the destination? One of the things would be food, you know, so you can't go somewhere without tasting something.”
Michelin Stars and Global Recognition
Macao currently boasts 16 Michelin stars, a testament to its culinary excellence. But as Fernandes highlights, its gastronomic prestige extends beyond these accolades. “Macao is now also a UNESCO city of gastronomy because we were able to join the network back in 2017, so we are very happy about that.”
This recognition not only enhances Macao’s profile but also fosters international exchange. The city has become part of a global community where culinary traditions are shared and celebrated. The Michelin Guide further amplifies this status by highlighting not just starred establishments, but also those recognized by the Bib Gourmand and the Michelin Green Award.
Looking ahead, Fernandes eagerly anticipates the upcoming release of the 2025 Michelin Guide for Hong Kong and Macao, stating, “We are very eager to see whether there will be new restaurants to be included because it's always interesting and it's always very good to have these kinds of recognitions.”
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The Evolution of Macanese Cuisine
What truly distinguishes Macao from other Asian gastronomic hubs is its unique Macanese cuisine, a remarkable blend of Portuguese, Chinese, African, Indian, and Southeast Asian influences.
Fernandes explains, “When Portugal, the Portuguese, back in the old days of Discovery’s time, came from Portugal and passed by Africa, India, and Malaysia before arriving in Macao, they brought along a lot of spices and ingredients.” This fusion resulted in what is now considered one of the world’s earliest fusion cuisines.
This unique culinary tradition has been officially recognized as part of China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage, underscoring its significance in the country’s vast gastronomic landscape.
Signature Events Showcasing Macao’s Culinary Heritage
Beyond its daily offerings, Macao is home to several prestigious food festivals. The Macao Food Festival, organized by the local Restaurant Association, has been a culinary staple for over 25 years, bringing together local and international chefs. The festival regularly features guest countries, allowing visitors to experience a truly global culinary exchange.
Another key event is the International Cities of Gastronomy Fest, an initiative launched last year that welcomed 29 UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy. Fernandes elaborates on its three core components:
- A global forum discussing topics such as holistic gastronomy, exploring how food intersects with wellness and traditional medicine.
- Live cooking demonstrations where international chefs showcase their local cuisines, culminating in public food tastings.
- A culinary marketplace featuring over 100 food stalls, allowing visitors to purchase and experience the flavors of the world.
This year’s edition will move to July to accommodate the UNESCO annual conference, ensuring maximum participation from international cities. Meanwhile, the Macao Food Festival will retain its traditional November slot, providing a culinary spectacle at different points of the year.
The Pursuit of Culinary Excellence
Macao’s commitment to excellence goes beyond international recognition. In 2014, the city launched the Quality Tourism Service Accreditation Scheme (QTSAS) to ensure high standards across restaurants, travel agencies, and retail establishments. Fernandes notes, “The most important is not just to get the quality achievement. The most important is at the back of it, it’s a lot of training opportunities.”
To further enhance its gastronomic reputation, Macao encourages local establishments to seek various certifications, including the Black Pearl and Ctrip’s restaurant rankings in China.
The Future of Macao’s Gastronomy Scene
Beyond its festivals and Michelin recognitions, Macao is also investing in wine appreciation. A new initiative led by a local hotelier is promoting Chinese grape wines, an emerging industry in the region. International sommeliers are now evaluating and rating these wines, helping them reach global markets.
Furthermore, Macao’s dining scene is expanding through exclusive chef collaborations, or “four-hands” events, where local and international chefs team up to create one-of-a-kind menus. These pop-ups have seen participation from Japanese, Chinese, and Western chefs, reinforcing Macao’s position as a global gastronomic hub.
A Year-Round Culinary Destination
For those unable to visit during festival periods, Macao still offers an authentic gastronomic experience year-round. From street food stalls to high-end dining, the city provides an unmatched culinary journey. As Fernandes remarks, “People who come into Macao any time of the year can try different kinds of cuisines.”
With its deep-rooted culinary history, ongoing innovations, and global recognitions, Macao continues to shine as a premier destination for gastronomy tourism. As the world gathers at ITB Berlin 2025, Macao stands as a testament to how food can shape and define a destination’s identity, offering travelers an unforgettable journey through taste and tradition.
