Sheraton Grand Macao’s newest dining addition, The Conservatory, is a work of plain elegance and a fortunate alliance of three dining concepts under one roof: Three Bottles, Chaan and The Sweet Shop. The menus have been designed to create a connection between the three experiences. The Tea Room, although not a standalone concept itself, plays an important role too, as it flows into and connects Chaan and Three Bottles and is deemed the central corner of the restaurant. As a shared space where cuisines from the East and West get to shine, reflecting Macau’s own unique heritage, it comes forth as an eclectic meeting place for friends and family to gather and share a comforting meal. This multi-concept dining destination offers British classics and authentic Cantonese fare, sweet treats, and a wide selection of beverages, including single origins by local coffee specialists Bloom and the current sensation in Asia “400-Coffee”, hand-whipped 400 times to create a super creamy foam.
Authentic Cantonese Fare at Chaan
Drawing inspiration from cherished local establishments–“cha chaan teng”–Chaan, which translates to “meal”, is an upscale reinterpretation of the 60’s Macau and Hong Kong-style cafés. Fitted with ceiling fans, mosaic-tiled flooring, and a few cozy booth seats, the dining area boasts a nostalgic feel that adds charm to its retro-contemporary atmosphere. At Chaan, a demonstration kitchen where skilled chefs meticulously handcraft dumplings in varied shapes, pull noodles, and prepare all sorts of authentic Cantonese fare is the appealing visual prelude to a sublime meal.
One of the aspects we love the most about the Cantonese dining concept at The Conservatory is that guests can order from the menu from 7:00am up until its closing time, this way being able to savor comforting Cantonese food at any time of the day. At Chaan, diners can get a made-to-order bowl of handmade noodles by selecting a broth base, noodle type, and a protein such as XO sauce pork cartilage, braised abalone with mushroom, “sha cha” beef cheek with morel mushroom, double-boiled duck leg with dried mandarin peel, garlic-infused seafood, and brandy flambé lobster, the latter being a presented as a signature dish. Delicious boiled dumplings filled with beef, coriander, and cumin and Sichuanese wonton dumplings in soya sauce and chili oil are just a few additional signature dishes at Chaan.
Naturally, congee, another firm favorite within the Cantonese cuisine, is offered at Chaan as well. It comes in a selection of abalone and chicken, Chiu Chow minced pork and oyster, ginger and sesame cod fillet, pork, and century egg or fresh crab. The crab congee, also highlighted as a signature dish, is served up with two fresh crabs, which feels like a generous extra. Each congee comes with a side of freshly fried foot-long yiao tiow.
Fusion of Two Cultures at the Tea Room
Since tea is the common element that ties Chinese and British cultures together, and the act of drinking it is a deeply rooted tradition in both, it is fitting that The Conservatory accommodates its own Tea Room. In addition to premium Chinese and Western teas and contemporary blends, this central corner of The Conservatory offers local and Western freshly baked goods, plus the perennial British afternoon tea and cream tea. Cream tea is a not-so-well-known form of afternoon tea consisting of tea, scones, fruit preserves, and Devonshire clotted cream. At the Tea Room, guests may select between different sets of the cream tea or go for a more substantial signature British afternoon tea inclusive of savories, sweets, and the most delicious English scones paired with a choice of TWG premium tea or Italian coffee Illy. As early as 7:00am, the tempting aroma of freshly made pastries and good coffee fills the air. From local staples like spicy sardine bun, pineapple bun and cream-filled coconut bun to Western classics like palmiers, canelés, blueberry muffins and even Portuguese “sonhos”, a fine formation of baked goods is ready to be enjoyed in situ or grabbed for a snack on the go with a warm cup of coffee.
British Classics at Three Bottles
From fine-dining restaurants to street-food markets and everything in between, London is a bustling city with endless offerings at the disposal of those looking to satisfy their cravings, any time of the day. Offering British-inspired fare, Three Bottles is a restaurant and bar that perfectly recreates this lively vibe of a booming dining scene. The name “Three Bottles” has its origins in the Regency Era and is a reference to Britain’s former Prime Minister, William Pitt. Pitt, who besides being a great politician was known to be a bottle man, which was not only acceptable but also expected at the time. He used to carry around not one but three bottles with him, each containing a different liquor.
In a nod to European savoir-vivre, Three Bottles features a stylish lounge by the open facade of the restaurant that overlooks Shakespeare’s Hall, Sheraton Grand Macao’s recreation of an English Renaissance theater. Styled with black and white marble flooring, rattan furniture, and tropical motifs that reminisce Britain’s colonial past, Three Bottles is a vibrant pub-inspired venue with a modern twist. At the back bar, the perfect place for friends and family to meet up for pre or after-dinner drinks, friendly staff in very British beret hats welcome guests to an array of beverages, from draft beer to classic and innovative cocktails and an impressive selection of British whiskies and gins. If in the mood for something extra, guests may opt for the “London Night” cocktail and the skilled bartenders will create a special drink just for the night.
At Three Bottles patrons are spoiled with a wide choice of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Among breakfast sets, the full English breakfast inclusive of Cumberland pork sausages, Rhug Estate black pudding, Irish back bacon, toast, two fried eggs, mushrooms, potato cakes, and roast tomatoes is a meal fit for a king. For lunch and evenings, highlighted as signature dishes, the quail Scotch egg, seared foie gras toast, and an insanely good oxtail pudding are ideal for sharing. Another dish meant to be shared is the Sunday roast for two. In fact, in British culture, the Sunday roast has evolved to be more than a dish, it is established as a tradition, a meal that families lovingly share when they gather for Sunday lunch. The Three Bottle’s version of this British staple features a Black Angus tomahawk, an oxtail stuffed Yorkshire pudding, cauliflower cheese croquettes, carrots cooked in hay, and bone marrow jus for drizzling to taste. Naturally, the menu features the British household name too, fish and chips. After being coated in a special beer batter, the fish is deep-fried to perfection and then served along with golden chips, mushy peas, yogurt tartare, and malt vinegar that guests spray onto the fish to their liking. To finish off on a sweet note, the warm sticky toffee pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is an absolute must-try. Red and white wines from celebrated wine growing regions, draft beer, premium British beers, and ales like UK’s well-loved Spitfire all make for great pairings to the food.
The Sweet Shop
The Sweet Shop takes reference from old times sweet shops commonly found in London. During the Victorian Era, as the United Kingdom started importing sugar from the former British West Indies, it became an accessible good and sweet shops popped up across the city. Taking pride of place at The Conservatory, with views over Shakespeare’s Hall, The Sweet Shop is crowned by a striking emblem in vintage-style lettering and charmingly styled in tones of red and taffy pink. This sweet tooth wonderland is filled with handmade bonbons, candy, and sweets perfect for gift giving and keepsakes. Available in Nutella, Oreo, and matcha flavors, the T-cup is one of the most iconic signature desserts at the shop. These intricate teacup-shaped cheesecakes, meant to be eaten entirely, saucer included, are just the ticket. Moreover, at The Sweet Shop guests can also find a wide range of celebration cakes, available in strawberry and vanilla, chocolate chip and passion fruit, and other flavors, or pre-order a tailored-made cake for a special occasion. Next to the sweetest corner of The Conservatory, an enchanting vintage ice cream cart is an unavoidable stop for kids and grownups after a fulfilling meal.
A Multitude of Offerings
Wherever they choose to sit, guests are welcome to select from any of the menus. Those visiting The Conservatory will be wowed by the sublime myriad of curated offerings ranging from savory to sweet, regional to Western, available from breakfast until late. All things considered, The Conservatory features a multitude of choices that really is a cut above the rest. Book your table now and experience it first hand along with your nearest and dearest.
Opening hours:
Three Bottles & Chaan – Sunday–Thursday, 7:00am–12:00am; Friday & Saturday, 7:00am–1:00am
The Sweet Shop – 12:00pm– 8:00pm
For inquiries, call +853 8113 1200 or email [email protected]
The Conservatory Level 1, Sheraton Grand Macao, The Londoner Macao, Estrada do Istmo, Cotai, +853 8113 1200, www.theconservatorymacao.com