Putting on the Ritz

This article first appeared in the Nov/Dec 2015 issue of WGM.

The Stallion has partied the night away in every bar, pub and nightclub Macau has to offer, so he was eager to test drive Galaxy’s brand new meeting place at the top of the Ritz-Calrton.

Macau has never had a particularly big drinking culture, so it’s no surprise the local bar scene is taking a while to catch up. Although there are a handful of trendy nightspots to choose from, options remain limited for those who enjoy an after work drink in suitably swank surrounds.

The good news is that the spate of new property openings in Cotai over the next few years should go some way towards remedying the situation – and Galaxy can lay claim to being first cab off the rank with the stylish Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge.

Located on the 51st floor of the exclusive Ritz-Carlton, which opened as part of Galaxy Phase II in May, Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge fits comfortably into the hotel’s air of opulence.

The long, slender room boasts dark interiors not too unlike something you might find in New York with large, colorful prints adorning the walls and a stunning marble bar from which to order your drink of choice.

A similar marble bench runs along the huge window that runs down one half of the room and provides a great place from which to take in the breathtaking views over Cotai.

Being on the top floor of the building, the window actually sits behind part of the giant Galaxy logo built into the tower’s exterior and whether by design or chance the effect of the logo’s curves running across gives Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge a sort of art deco feel.

Although designed primarily to function as a bar, Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge also prides itself on its food offerings which includes à la carte breakfast from 09:00 and afternoon tea, where you can enjoy a glass of champagne with savory treats such as Smoked Salmon with Tangerine Jam, Sakura Cream Cheese Puffs and Scones with Blueberry Jam and Clotted Cream.

But it’s when the sun sets that this bar comes into its own, with the lively buzz of the after work crowd complemented by live music in the background. A pianist was the musician of choice when The Stallion pranced in which only added to that New York vibe.

Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge is obviously one of the latest places to be seen with plenty of fine fillies to catch the eye of eager young stallions.

For those keen to grab a bite while they’re kicking back there is an innovative Asian tapas menu, while Monday nights feature a MOP$188 happy hour between 18:00 and 20:00 with a limited list of drinks and nibbles.

Macau has been crying out for more stylish bars – Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge fits the bill nicely.