One of our best-kept secrets is our favorite post-work spot, none other than The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge. The chic interiors combined with delicious cocktails makes it our most treasured haunt. And this weekend, Luke Whearty shakes up the scene with his creative concoctions. Outside the bar, there are loads of events happening around the city. Here is our list of where to go and what do—make it a weekend to remember!
MIXOLOGIST LUKE WHEARTY CONQUERS THE RITZ-CARLTON BAR & LOUNGE
(Featured image above)
Luke Whearty continues to set the bar high in the mixology world. The famous founder of Singapore’s Operation Dagger has a refreshing flair for extraordinary flavor combinations. Drawing inspiration from food, art, and the sights and smells of his personal experiences, he designs innovative cocktails of an outstanding caliber.
It comes as no surprise that Operation Dagger is hailed as one of the Top 25 Bars in the World and 6th Best Bar in Asia by the World’s 50 Best Bars 2017. Now it’s our chance to finally get a taste of meticulously concocted cocktails that will transport our senses to a different dimension.
Grab a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn from the legend himself by signing up for his masterclass on November 26, 2017.
Husk—Cascara, burned coconut, passion fruit husk, dry vermouth, Fino Sherry, cascara syrup
G.O.A.T.—Distilled goat cheese, Hendricks Gin, fresh pineapple, honey & thyme, dry vermouth, Fino sherry
Burnt Magnus—Hendricks Gin, almost burnt cream, orange blossom, apricot
Truffle—Monkey Shoulder Whisky, white cacao distillate, homemade mandarin vinegar, mandarin truffle gel
When: 9:00pm–12:00am, Friday–Saturday, November 24–25, 2017
Where: The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Galaxy Macau, Estrada da Baía da Nossa Senhora da Esperança, Cotai
How much: Cocktail starts at MOP $118
For more details, contact +853 8886 6706 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com, www.facebook.com/ritzcarltonmacau
WHO AM I: VIDEO INSTALLATION BY ALLEN WONG
Taipa Village Cultural Association proudly presents local established artist Allen Wong’s solo exhibition “Who am I”, showcasing two sets of artistic expressions—video installations and mixed media installations—which are based on Wong’s recurrent theme of traditional Chinese bird cages. The four video installations, entitled “Southeast Southwest”, “Fan”, “East West Path”, and “What Do You Want”, explore the concept of the thaumatrope. The exhibition aims to reflect the relationship between freedom and human society.
The curator’s statement reads, “This exhibition presents Wong’s most intimate and fragile self, by looking into his inner beliefs in order to make sense of the daily contradictions, overcome life’s struggles, surpass moral obstacles and progress with his artistic ambitions. It is, in fact, an exposition of his search for freedom of thought and how to maintain the strength of identity.”
When: 12:00pm–8:00pm, October 11–November 29, 2017
Where: Taipa Village Art Space, 10 Rua dos Clerigos, Taipa
How much: Free admission
For more details, visit www.taipavillagemacau.com or contact +853 2857 6118
GRAND COLOANE’S SUNDOWNER HAPPY HOUR
There is no better time to enjoy some relaxing time than at the dusky mid-evening hour. And there is only one famous point of sunshine in Macau with a magical view. Take your special friend or invite the work gang for an ice-cold beer or refreshing glass of wine at Grand Coloane Resort.
Immerse yourself in an island vibe seemingly a world away from the fast-paced city living when in reality it’s just a few minutes away. With soothing music courtesy of the great Curtis Scott, the Panorama Lounge is an epic spot for the perfect sundowner. Sit by the fireplace while enjoying refreshing spritzers and delicious bites. Enjoy the cooler weather with family and friends at the natural surroundings of Grand Coloane Resort.
When: Monday–Saturday, 6:30pm–8:30pm
Where: Panorama Lounge, Grand Coloane Resort, 1918 Estrada de Hac Sa, Coloane
How much: Selected spritzers at MOP $28 per glass (original price MOP $78), buy one and get one free on selected beverages
Call +853 8899 1020, or visit www.grandcoloane.com, or email [email protected]
17TH MACAU FOOD FESTIVAL
Embark on a wonderful culinary journey at the Macau Food Festival that is celebrated every year in November. Set upon the rotunda opposite the Macau Tower, the prestigious event attracts local residents and visitors beguiled by delicious Asian, European, mainland Chinese and local delicacies. Foodies flock to the exciting live entertainment, games, and beer competitions. The food fest has become a favorite for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere of street stalls, booths, and tents.
This year’s festival is themed “Exploring the New Frontiers of Flavour”. The organizing committee has invited 26 food and beverage participants from Kansai, Japan for that authentic Japanese flavor. In addition, you can visit the Japanese Village built on the lower level of Sai Van Lake Square—savor authentic Japanese delicacies for an extraordinary experience.
The festival has been growing in terms of scale and variety since it was launched back in 2001. The original festival featured local and regional cuisines to the public, whereas the recent festivals have blossomed into providing a large variety of foods across regions, carnival games, and spectacular performances.
When: November 10–26, 2017
Where: Sai Van Lake Square, Praça do Lago Sai Van, Macau
How much: Free admission
DIRECTOR-IN-FOCUS: HIROKAZU KOREEDA
Cinematheque Passion has chosen Hirokazu Koreeda as the second Director-in-Focus this year and will present his 10 feature films made from the mid-1990’s to this year, including “The Third Murder”, critically-acclaimed at the Venice International Film Festival 2017, which is starred by the popular singer Masaharu Fukuyama. The 10 films will be screening November 11–25, 2017. This is definitely a golden opportunity to enter the world of Hirokazu.
Hirokazu Koreeda is highly regarded as one of the most important directors in contemporary Japanese film production. His delicate depiction of characters and distinctive but not melodramatic narrative skill brought him acclamation and awards in numerous major European film festivals as well as in the Asian Film Festival and the so-called “Oscar Awards” in Japan.
When: November 11–25, 2017
Where: Cinematheque Passion, 13 Travessa da Paixao, Macau
How much: MOP $60
Full-time students and senior citizens aged 65 or above can enjoy 50% discount. Each purchase of 10 tickets or more can also enjoy 20% discount.
For more details, visit www.cinematheque-passion.mo, www.facebook.com/CinemathequePassion
VALLE D’AOSTA AT THE BENE FOOD & WINE MERCATO
Sheraton Grand Macao continues its tradition of authentic Italian cuisine with the latest Food & Wine Mercato, unveiling Valle d’Aosta as the new destination on November 24 and 25 at Bene. Valle d’Aosta is a winter sport heaven not only endowed with majestic peaks and natural wonders, but also renowned for its simple yet hearty cuisines with a dose of mountain flavors. Tucked away in the extreme northwest of Italy, this mountainous region is notable for its local specialties such as carbonada, mocetta, fontina, as well as exemplary wines.
Tempting and inviting, Food & Wine Mercato is a monthly event that is inspired by the colorful markets of Italy. Curated by Luca Pecorari, the executive sous chef of Bene, this month’s menu presents the best of Valle d’Aosta’s gastronomy including tortino di asparagi e fontina (orange marinated salmon trout carpaccio), crespelle alla valdostana (broiled crepes stuffed with mushrooms fontina cheese and ham), and arrosto di manzo (roasted beef rump, wine and truffle jus, forest mushrooms)—all delicately complemented with premium wines.
The first of its kind in Macau, Bene Food & Wine Mercato is an innovative dining concept that explores different regions across Italy and celebrates a variety of gastronomic traditions and distinctive flavors. Sourcing from all over the country, Bene showcases Italy’s finest ingredients, artisanal products, and handpicked wines. Delightful and interactive, the Food & Wine Mercato is hosted at Bene during the last weekend of every month.
Guests are encouraged to weave through the cooking stations among wine professionals and fresh food producers throughout the evening to get a real taste of Italy. Mercato also boasts a variety of artisanal retail products for sale, allowing guests to recreate their favorite Italian dishes at home.
When: 6:00pm–11:00pm, Friday–Saturday, 24–25 November
Where: Bene, Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel, Estrada Do Istmo, Cotai
How much: MOP $488 (per adult) and MOP $200 (per child aged 6 to 12 years)
For reservations or inquiries, please call +853 8113 1200 or email [email protected].
For more details, please visit www.sheratongrandmacaohotel.com or follow @macaobene on Facebook.
*Prices include entry ticket, unlimited food, wines, and drinks. Retail items will be charged accordingly.
AFA AUTUMN SALON 2017
Organized by Art For All Society (AFA) and Orient Foundation, the opening ceremony of “AFA Autumn Salon 2017” was held on November 4 in Casa Garden, Macao Delegation of Fundação Oriente.
After the artwork selection by the jury, this time there will be 58 artworks of 30 Macau local artists presented in the exhibition. The participating artists are: Sou Chon Kit, Ieong Sok I, Francisco Antonio Oliveira de Almeida Ricarte, Lou Ka I, Wu Hin Long, Lai Sio kit, Tang Kuok Hou, Lei Ka Ieng, Leong Wai Chon, Ieong Man Hin, LanChiang, Lo Chong Hong, Wan Ieng Meng, Lam Wun Keng, Leong Cheng I, Zhang Yijun, Cheok Hio Peng, Ieong Man Pan, Kay Zhang, Jose Drummond, João Palla, Ng Fong Chao, Chen Xuelin, Season Lao, Ho Si Man, Cai Guo Jie, Yang Sio Maan, Benjamin Hodges, Wong Mei Teng and Yves Etienne Sonolet. The 58 selected artworks are including oil painting, watercolor, drawing, sculpture, photography, porcelain, and printmaking, installation and videos etc. All participants are now working and living in Macau with different backgrounds.
This year not only the young and potential artists but also lots of artists who are playing a central role in Macau Contemporary Art scene have participated in the exhibition. It makes all the participating artists can learn from each other to achieve complementarity. Same in the past, the awarded artworks of the 6th “Orient Foundation Art Award” have been selected, and the result will be announced at the opening ceremony of “AFA Autumn Salon 2017”.
The winner of “Orient Foundation Art Award” will be given an opportunity to visit Portugal for a one-month art exchange program. The winners in the past: Lai Sio Kit (2012), Eric Fok (2013), Lai Sut Wing (2014) and Yung Lai Jing (2015) and Sylviye Lei (2016) had been to Portugal for visiting different museums and art institutions and met with Portuguese artists.
When: 10:00am–7:00pm, November 5–30, 2017
Where: Casa Garden, Orient Foundation, 13 Praca de Luis de Camoes
How much: Free admission
For more details, +853 2836 6064 or www.afamacau.com
GETTING IN THE GROOVE WITH RUI CUNHA FOUNDATION
Popular for its varied monthly art activities, Rui Cunha Foundation presents A Night With Piano at the Gallery, where revelers can spend an evening enjoying popular Chinese and English songs and are welcome to play their favorite songs and share their musical talents on the spot.
When: November 3–24, 2017
Where: Rui Cunha Foundation Gallery
How much: Free admission
For more information, contact +853 2892 3288 or visit ruicunha.org/frc
LONELY TONES—WORKS BY FORTES PAKEONG SEQUEIRA
Macau artist Fortes Pakeong Sequeira will have his solo exhibition “Lonely Tones—Works by Fortes Pakeong Sequeira” in AFA Macau. This time Pakeong will show his latest artworks including installation and animation and aims at opening up new perspectives in which the viewer is able to engage.
When: October 28–November 26, 2017
Where: GF, Tak Chun Macau, Art for All, Art Garden, 265 Avenida Dr. Rodrigo Rodrigues, Macau
How much: Free admission
For more details, visit www.afamacau.com or +853 2836 6064
PURGE ONE’S MIND: TRIO EXHIBITION BY LEONG KIT MAN, IM HOK LON, AND MOK HEI SA
Co-organized by the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) and the Macau Artist Society, “Purge One’s Mind: Trio Exhibition by Leong Kit Man, Im Hok Lon, and Mok Hei Sai” was inaugurated on September 25 at the Lakeside Gallery, Room S1, in the Anim’Arte Nam Van. It is the first painting and calligraphy works exhibition organized at Anim’Arte Nam Van featuring a total of 25 artworks by three young artists.
Leong Kit Man is currently studying for a Ph.D. degree in fine arts at the Chinese National Academy of Arts. She is now engaged in the research of fine art theories, artistic creation, and Chinese painting education and specializes in the creation of Chinese painting in the gongbi style. She was a lecturer in the Design Programme of the City University of Macau. Her works have been selected for the collections of the government and private institutions. She is active in exhibition activities in Macau, mainland China, and abroad.
Mok Hei Sai (pen name: Xing Yue) obtained a master degree in literature and art studies at the East China Normal University. He has been engaged in teaching calligraphy for many years and is committed to the promotion of traditional culture. Over the past few years, he has cooperated with artists from the fields of the tea ceremony and leather carving, in an attempt to promote the charm of Chinese characters.
Im Hok Lon is a graduate of the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts specializing in landscape painting. He is committed to the promotion of Chinese painting and carving. His works mostly feature landscapes and animals and were exhibited in mainland China, Macau, Hong Kong and Taiwan. His works were also selected for the “Macao Annual Visual Arts Exhibition” and the “National Exhibition of Fine Arts”.
When: 11:00am–10:00pm, September 25–November 25, 2017
Where: Anim’Arte Nam Van, 744B Avenida Panoramica do Lago Nam Van, Macau
How much: Free admission
For more details, visit www.icm.gov.mo
In Hong Kong for the weekend? The WOOBAR brings live saxophone beats in an intimate setting with its curated series of inspiring live acts starting with the UK’s Lovely Laura and her DJ partner Ben Santiago, resident DJs of Ibiza’s Hed Kandi. Lovely Laura, a saxophonist and vocalist, has started an internet storm across the globe, with videos of her performances in Ibiza reaching over 50 million views, and is well known for her collaboration with Klingande in “Jubel”.
Tickets for entry come with one standard drink and is priced at HKD $280 before 6.30PM on November 25 and HKD $380 at the door. VIP priced at HKD $5,500 for maximum eight people, including one bottle of champagne, and one bottle of spirit.
For inquiries or reservations: +852 3717 2889, [email protected]