Macau is packed with Western-style bars, but it also has a wide range of local joints to choose from. Karaoke is a pretty popular thing on this side of the globe, but not all of the karaoke places have English songs in their libraries, so we’ve only included the ones that do. Why not try out one of these cool places for a local Macau drinking experience?
Prem1er Bar
(See featured image above)
Located in the heart of Taipa Village, Prem1er (spelling out Premier) sells all kinds of drinks. From beer to wine, classic to more edgy cocktails, there’s an array of beverages to sip there. The welcoming environment attracts everyone who’s in for some fun, good music or just chatting amongst friends. They also organize parties with special music: from hip hop to African beats (kizomba, reggaeton), expect to enter a universe of world music and fun! Another cool thing about this spot is its wide selection of vodka, gin, and whisky brands. For all alcohol aficionados, Prem1er is the place to hit when looking for some of the best-imported spirits in town. You can either buy a bottle and keep it there for nights to come or simply purchase some to take home and share with friends.
Opening hours: Daily, 5:00pm–4:00am
Prem1er Bar 86 Rua Direita Carlos Eugénio, Taipa Village, +853 2882 7109, www.facebook.com/PREM1ERMACAU
Also read: Best Places for Whiskey Lovers in Macau
After 6
This popular bar in Taipa is always packed with locals and Westerners. Besides offering Chivas mixed with green tea (a common drink all over China) this joint also offers two darts machines and a lot of music. No reservations needed, just a good attitude. Gather your friends and have a blast playing darts or just singing along to all those hits they tend to play at After 6. Music is a bit loud but perfect for those who need to blow off some steam after a hard day’s work.
Opening hours: Daily, 5:00pm–4:00am
After 6 507 Rua de Seng Tou, Taipa, +853 6683 3063
Also read: Shaken or Stirred: Macau’s Best Cocktails
Minibar & Lounge
Also situated in Taipa, Minibar is known for its tasty appetizers that come with the drinks. Whether it’s a beer, a glass of wine, or one of their cocktails, they always come with salted popcorn and some dried fruits and nuts on the side. They also have a snooker table and have sets of dice which the locals use to play a particularly fun local drinking game. It’s called “show off” (吹牛) and is known all over China. It basically consists of guessing the total number of dice on the table, which are hidden inside opaque cups. When it’s your turn, you can either lie or tell the truth, and the other players will guess if you’re lying, therefore making you disclose the entire game. If the announced number matches the real result, you’re free; if the contrary happens, you drink! Fun, right? There is also good music to keep the mood going, of course.
Opening hours: Daily, 5:00pm–4:00am
Minibar & Lounge Av. Dr. Sun Yat Sen 119, Taipa, +853 2883 0638, www.facebook.com/minibarlounge
Also read: Beat the Heat: Coolest Places to Drink Beer in Macau
Neway Karaoke Bar
This is a huge place located in the NAPE area. Besides having a lot of cozy private karaoke rooms, it also boasts incredible anti-noise walls that keep you focused on hitting those high notes without distraction. Neway has an array of drinks on their menu, but they also offer light snacks and real food. Their English songs list is pretty extensive, so you won’t be stuck with just J.Lo and Christina Aguilera.
Opening hours: Daily, 11:00am–6:30am
Neway Karaoke Bar 2/F Chong Fok Centro Commercial, 26-28 Avenida de Marciano Baptista, NAPE, Macau, +853 2841 1111, www.facebook.com/neway
Cais 22
Well, even though this isn’t a bar per se, you will surely find a spot to literally drink like (and with, if you want to) locals here. With both indoor and alfresco areas, Cais 22 is a great place to chill out while overlooking China. Bring your friends (big groups are also welcome), grab one of the tables outside, and have fun with Chivas and other libations. Beer is also a pretty common choice around here. Besides being cheap, it’s super fresh, which helps when the weather calls for something cool. Order snacks or even full meals until late at night and keep those bottles coming!
Cais 22 (Wo Fat Pier Food) 和發碼頭美食 Shop C, G/F, 22A Avenida de Demetrio Cinatti, Patane, Macau, +853 2895 7153
Also read: Cais 22: A Local Seafood Experience to Remember
Che Che Café
Owned by a young generation of Macau people–a group of friends–it’s the to-go place if you’re looking to mingle with the local crowd instead of the expat collective hanging around at some well-known bars. Take your friends out for a drink at this place and be sure to have some crafted cocktails, lots of artisanal beers, and many other exclusive drinks available here. Che Che is located near Kiang Wu hospital, accessible from Luís de Camões garden and St. Lazarus neighborhood. They usually craft a selection of indie and rock music to keep the environment classy yet modern.
Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 12:00–3:00pm and 6:00pm–2:00am
Che Che Café 70A Rua de Tomás Vieira, G/F, Edf. Lai San, Macau, +853 6288 0857, www.facebook.com/chechemacau
Also read: Sit and Sip: Macau’s Best Wine Bars
