When people think of Macau, the first images that often come to mind are the dazzling casinos, Portuguese architecture, and cobblestone streets of Senado Square. But for the culturally curious, Macau offers something far more enriching: a culinary journey where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation.
Macau’s food heritage is a reflection of its history as a former Portuguese colony and a key trading port in Asia. This unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese influences has given birth to a cuisine like no other. While halal options have traditionally been limited, growing Muslim tourism has led to more Muslim-friendly adaptations of these beloved dishes.
If you're visiting Macau and wish to explore local flavours while sticking to halal dietary requirements, you’re in for a treat. Here are five standout dishes that offer a taste of Macau’s rich culinary heritage, along with options or modifications that keep them halal-friendly.
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No visit to Macau is complete without biting into a warm Portuguese egg tart. These iconic pastries are everywhere in the city, and with good reason. Unlike the traditional Chinese egg tarts found in dim sum joints, the Macanese version has a rich, creamy custard centre with a caramelised top that’s slightly burnt, adding a toasty note to every bite. The crust is buttery and flaky and holds the filling together perfectly without being too heavy.
Originally brought over by Portuguese colonisers, the recipe was adapted locally over the years to suit the Macanese palate. Today, these egg tarts are so beloved that people literally queue for them, and they’re often the first thing visitors hunt down after checking in. For Muslim travellers, it’s worth noting that some recipes use lard or alcohol-based vanilla. Thankfully, several bakeries now offer vegetarian or halal-friendly versions, especially those located near mosques or international hotels. Just be sure to ask before you order, or look for signage that confirms the ingredients.
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This dish is a gem for those who love seafood and spice. Shrimp in curry sauce is a Macanese favourite that blends Portuguese, Indian, and Chinese flavours into something entirely its own. The prawns are cooked in a rich, coconut-based curry that’s lightly spiced with turmeric, garlic, and local herbs. If you’re planning to try it, you’ll definitely want to eat it with a side of rice to soak up every drop of gravy.
Though influenced by Indian and African cuisines through Portugal’s former colonies, the Macanese version has a gentler spice profile, making it more approachable for different palates. Some restaurants will be happy to adjust the recipe or already have a seafood section in their halal menu. When done right, this dish is both comforting and memorable — something you’ll want to recreate when you’re back home.
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Bacalhau fritters are deep-fried balls of salted codfish and mashed potatoes, and they’re the kind of snack you find yourself reaching for over and over again. Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re seasoned with herbs like parsley and onion, creating a flavour profile that’s savoury and satisfying without being overly fishy. These fritters are usually eaten as starters or bar bites, but don’t be surprised if you end up making a meal out of them.
Codfish, or bacalhau, is a staple in Portuguese cuisine and made its way into Macau’s food culture through generations of colonial influence. The fish is preserved through salting and drying, which intensifies its flavour and gives it a distinctive texture. However, some traditional recipes use white wine in the batter or cook the fritters in pork fat, so it’s important to check with the restaurant if you’re looking for a halal option. The good news is that many cafes offer vegetarian or seafood-only menus that skip the non-halal elements, letting you enjoy this crispy snack without worry.
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Also known as sawdust pudding, Serradura is one of Macau’s most beloved desserts. It’s made with alternating layers of whipped cream and finely crushed biscuits — usually Marie biscuits — giving it a texture that’s both creamy and slightly crumbly. Despite its simplicity, it’s a dessert that hits all the right notes: light, not too sweet, and easy to eat even after a heavy meal.
This chilled dessert is another gift from Portuguese influence and has become a staple across Macanese bakeries and dessert cafes. These days, you can find Serradura in a variety of flavours including coffee, matcha, and even durian. Because the ingredients are typically straightforward — cream, biscuits, and sugar — most versions are halal-friendly by default. That said, it’s still worth checking the labels or asking the staff to confirm that no gelatin or alcohol-based flavourings are used, especially in the flavoured versions.
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Despite the name, African Chicken is a true Macanese invention. It was created by local chefs inspired by Portugal’s historical ties with Africa, particularly Mozambique. The dish features grilled or roasted chicken slathered in a thick, spicy sauce made from chilies, garlic, coconut milk, and peanuts. It’s creamy, slightly smoky, and delivers a gentle heat that builds with every bite — kind of like a spicy satay meets butter chicken, but with a signature Macanese twist.
African Chicken is often served with rice or crusty bread, making it a hearty and satisfying main course. Because it was originally a home-cooked dish, there are countless versions, some of which include wine or pork stock in the sauce. If you’re going halal, your best bet is to look for international hotels or Muslim-friendly restaurants that serve halal versions on request. Many places are happy to accommodate if you call ahead or mention dietary requirements when ordering. Done right, this dish alone is worth the trip to Macau.
While halal Macanese food used to be rare, the growth in Muslim tourism has encouraged more eateries to offer Muslim-friendly versions of local favourites. Here are some tips to enjoy halal food in Macau:
Macau’s culinary scene is as layered and fascinating as its history. The local dishes tell stories of colonisation, trade, and cultural exchange. Be it if you’re wandering through the narrow alleys of the historic centre or dining at a modern halal café, you’ll find that each dish offers a unique taste of Macau’s multicultural soul- there’s no shortage of local flavours waiting to be discovered!
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