FIRST IMPRESSIONS: The restaurant is located near the waters off the main island of Macau and features interiors inspired by owner Adriano’s great love of boats and the high seas. Its whitewashed walls, arched ceiling and wooden décor were made to resemble the interiors of a ship’s cabin.
But not forgetting Macau’s roots, there is also a distinctive Portugese ambiance.
Upon arriving, I was shown to my reserved table beside a group of Japanese businessmen. While waiting for my order, I was kept amused, listening to a song by English-pop boy-band Westlife playing in the background. A bit incongruous, I thought, given the European flavour of the place, but I enjoyed it anyway.
THE FOOD: The dishes were presented in a straightforward manner with little visual enhancements, but after tasting them, I realised there was no need for any fancy tricks – they were delicious. Despite Adriano’s entreaties for me to try either the clams in garlic and olive oil or the charcoal-grilled prawns, I did not give in as I am not a seafood person. So I opted for Galinha a Africana or barbecued chicken (pictured), which was quite spicy and had me reaching for my glass of water between every mouthful. For dessert, I opted for A Lorcha’s Serradurra or milk-crème pudding topped with crumbled biscuits that left a lingering sweetness.
THE DRINKS: A wide selection of Portuguese wines is available for diners who prefer to have a complementing glass or two.
PRICE: A meal for two starts from US$40 without drinks.
VERDICT: It comes as no surprise as to why this 20-year-old establishment has continually wowed the locals and tourists alike. Worth making a return trip for the scrumptious alternatives you’ve missed out on previously.
CONTACT: 289 Rua Do Almirante Serigo, Macau, tel 853 2831 3193. Open daily except Tuesdays, from 1230 to 1500 and 1830 to 2300.
Kenneth Cheong
