SJM Showcases Macau’s Gastronomic Heritage at Italy’s Food Festival

Step into the exquisite world of Macau’s culinary art as SJM, a leading Macau-based resort operator, proudly represents the region at Parma’s celebrated “Gastronomic September” festival in Italy. This cultural fusion event not only highlights Macau’s unique culinary heritage but also strengthens ties between this Asian city and Parma, both honored as UNESCO “Creative Cities of Gastronomy.”

In an effort to share Macau’s rich gastronomic traditions with the world, Daisy Ho, Managing Director of SJM, expressed her excitement in being part of this prestigious event. “SJM is proud to represent Macau and participate in this cultural exchange in Parma,” she noted. Ho views the event as a golden opportunity to showcase Macau’s distinctive culinary traditions rooted in East-West heritage while fostering global friendships through shared passions for food and wine.

The spotlight during the festival was firmly on Chef Francesco Magni, Chef de Cuisine of Casa Don Alfonso at SJM’s Grand Lisboa. From September 26 to 28, Chef Francesco embarked on a culinary journey, crafting a symphony of flavors with local Parma chefs for an intimate audience of 40. His four-course fusion dinner was a testament to the blend of Italian and Macanese cuisines, starting with an exotic amuse-bouche of Pasteis de Bacalhau draped in Green Curry Sauce, and delighting the palate with the fusion of Italian Anolini in Brodo with Macau’s Char Siu.

Rich in flavors and heritage, the main dish featured Macanese Minchi enhanced by the local touch of Parma ham and red wine, followed by heavenly Portuguese Egg Tarts, crafted with Parma’s local butter. This tribute to culinary collaboration wowed guests, merging timeless traditions with fresh, local ingredients.

On September 27, Chef Francesco further shared Macau’s vibrant gastronomic culture with a special presentation. His insights into the city’s culinary wonders, from street food to MICHELIN-starred restaurants, highlighted why Macau holds the UNESCO title of Creative City of Gastronomy, an accolade that celebrates its dynamic and inventive food landscape.

The event’s finale on September 28 featured Chef Francesco alongside chefs from Academia Barilla in an enthralling cooking demo. They prepared African Chicken, a cornerstone of Macanese cuisine, blending Indian, Malaysian, Indonesian, and Portuguese influences. This dish, born from Macau’s fascinating culinary history, symbolizes its role as a crossroad of diverse culinary traditions.

Held throughout September, the “Gastronomic September” event, organized by UNESCO, is a key feature in Parma’s culinary calendar, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. From tasting sessions to concerts, and workshops, the festival invites all Creative Cities to share their culinary brilliance, making it a grand celebration of world-class gastronomic artistry.