When it comes to food, Macau simply has it all. Cited by UNESCO as a creative city of gastronomy, it has, in fact, a diverse and prominent culinary scene. While the choice is bountiful, it is important to learn that the history and culture of Macau is an intertwined tale of the East and West. Macau has been a Portuguese colony for centuries and embedded in every page of the modern day Macanese lifestyle is an essential touch.
Take time to dine at Grand Lapa’s Cafe Bela Vista where the Seafood Cataplana takes center stage as the season’s decadent dish. Delve into the rich taste of a fresh and authentic Cataplana recipe passed down from one generation to another carefully crafted to perfection.
What is Cataplana?
Cataplana is a unique Portuguese cooking instrument. And because of the remarkable cooking method, it has also adopted the same name as the Portuguese seafood dish it’s famous for. Having originated in the beautiful southern region of Portugal in Algarve, it’s a piece of Portuguese tradition that sailed the seven seas to the oriental city of Macau.
The Cataplana is presented in two half concave pans combined by a hinge and two side locks ensuring that the flavors and aroma are kept intact as the cooking process commence. It is often said that the Cataplana is one of the precursors of the modern pressure cooker. Many decades ago in the Algarve region, it was designed by ancient copper artisans. The use of copper is noted as an excellent conductor of heat throughout the Cataplana structure. It is also considered a healthy way of cooking for dishes such as seafood, chicken, meat, fish and vegetables and almost everything. A staple in any Portuguese kitchen, it was brought to the shores of Macau and has since then transformed the culinary way of life in the region.
One should never visit Macau without indulging in some fine food and there’s no better place to enjoy a spot of special dining than at Grand Lapa. Sit inside the gorgeous interiors of Cafe Bela Vista and you will find an array of delightful and delicious dishes to try. However, we recommend the Seafood Cataplana for something extraordinary. It’s a dish with character and creativity that simply captivates.
Chef talks
Chef Edgar of Café Bela Vista has worked passionately in creating the signature Cataplana dish. He said, “We have kept the core of tradition in ensuring the best practices of cooking this delicate dish. It has a deep meaning at the table for every celebration and family sharing. I am happy to present this because this represents the love and bonding of family. ”
Indulge in a magical feast of seafood Cataplana set in sophisticated surroundings of Grand Lapa. It exudes authenticity with famous recipes from the former Hotel Bela Vista using a mix of top quality imported and local fresh ingredients meticulously sourced by the talented kitchen team.
Grand Lapa 956-1110 Avenida da Amizade, Macau, +853 2856 7888, artyzen.grandlapa.com
