The St. Regis Bar, Photo Credit: Michael Weber
Dubbed the “Vegas of Asia,” Macau is an action-packed city full of entertainment, light shows, restaurants and gaming. But when it comes time to wind down with a nightcap, these beautifully designed cocktail bars promise to elevate the experience.
Macallan Whisky Bar and Lounge
If there’s one thing The Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge excels in, it’s the extensive collection of more than 400 spirits in which to indulge. But even if the comprehensive menu weren’t so compelling, the interior design alone would make this watering hole worth a visit. Tucked inside the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Galaxy Hotel, the bar feels warm and inviting with fur throws, leather armchairs and a fireplace.
From the stag antler details on the chandelier to the wood-paneled walls, it’s clear this haven is for those who appreciate a rustic Scottish touch. A perfect spot for a nightcap, The Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge naturally specializes in flights of its namesake nip. There are also extremely rare bottles, such as a 57-year aged Macallan poured from a gorgeous decanter.
The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge, Photo Credit: The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company
The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge
High atop Five-Star The Ritz-Carlton Macau is one of the city’s best-kept secrets: The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge. The elegant spot is the highest bar in Macau, overlooking the neon Cotai skyline and waterways below from its perch on the 51st floor.
The views are matched only by the beautiful surroundings: rich red leather couches create a contemporary feel, while marble and wood accents add to the glamorous vibe. Head here at sunset to soak up the views and enjoy a nightly jazz performance — with a gin and tonic in hand, of course.
Wing Lei Bar
A jewel inside Wynn Palace — sister hotel to Five-Star Wynn Macau — the luxurious Cotai Strip newcomer opened with fantastical décor, which would look completely at home in a whimsical French mansion.
One of the most beautifully designed spaces is Wing Lei Bar, adjacent to Cantonese fine-dining restaurant Wing Lei Palace. The breathtaking design, reminiscent of an ornate jewelry box, shines with mirrors, bright emerald hues, champagne tones, gold trim and billowing drapes.
The star of the show is an 18th-century crystal chandelier that shimmers in the center of the bar, complemented by the semi-precious stones embedded on the walls.
Amid all the glitz and glamor, the bar has also perfected the art of tea and cocktails. For afternoon refreshment, more than 50 herbal brews grace the menu — hand-selected by the hotel’s tea sommelier. Come evening, a glass of Gosset Grande Reserve Brut should round out the luxurious experience.
Vida Rica Bar, Photo Credit: George Apostolidis
Vida Rica Bar
Taking up prime waterfront real estate on Macau’s main peninsula, the Five-Star Mandarin Oriental, Macau is one of the city’s most prestigious addresses. The hotel overlooks the cityscape from several angles, thanks to its wedge-like shape. And the best place to soak up the views would have to be Vida Rica Bar.
A marvelously designed space with double-height ceilings, intimate nooks, crystal cylindrical lighting fixtures and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the skyline, Vida Rica is home to three separate bars and a carefully curated menu of Macau-inspired drinks. The signature Millionaire’s Mojito features mint, lime and rum topped off with champagne, while the refreshing Litchi Martini mixes together lychee fruits, white wine, vodka and green apple.
The St. Regis Bar
One of the most creative lounges on the strip, The St. Regis Bar, located inside Four-Star The St. Regis Macau, Cotai Central, combines a thoughtful aesthetic and innovative cocktails. In homage to Macau’s Portuguese and Chinese heritage, the address sports a glowing mural above the bar as well as a mix of contemporary and historic art.
Throughout the various rooms you’ll find large leather sofas and sculptural touches, including a chandelier-like centerpiece with gold rings dangling from the ceiling.
Tipplers will appreciate the bar’s several experimental and experiential drinks, including the signature Maria do Leste (“Mary of the East”) — a Bloody Mary-esque concoction packed with piri-piri and pink peppercorns.
