5 independent bars in Macao to check out on your next trip over

The boozy extension of a quiet alleyway turned local creative hub, Beer Temple is one of the best and most bizarre-looking bars anywhere. The dark, shiny, cavernous space houses dozens of boutique brews alongside a performance space and an Arctic-inspired display of papier maché snow and oversized penguins, because why not.

4 Patio de São Lazaro, Macao, +853 2835 2803, fb.com/beertemplemacau

Tucked away in Macao’s industrial northeast among old factories and shiny new condos, this chilled gastropub has one of the best selections of beer in town. They have over 100 labels from around the world and also have plenty of beer-friendly grub to make sure you don’t go hungry.

Shop AE/AF, Villa de Mer, Rua da Perola Oriental, Macao, +853 2876 3663, fb.com/TheBlackSheepMacau

A perennially popular expat hangout, Cathedral Café is, like its sister restaurant BIC, hidden in plain sight. The laidback wine bar is one of Macao’s few true alfresco spots, located right behind the iconic post office and just a couple of minutes’ walk from Senado Square. Knock back your Super Bock or Portuguese rosé with some of the great bar snacks, which, unsurprisingly, have a Portuguese twist.

12A Rua de Se San Malo, Macao, +853 6685 7621

This elegant, colonial house-inspired wine bar at the foot of the ruins of St Paul’s – and somehow always free of tourists – boasts probably Macao’s most extensive range of Portuguese wine, which pairs perfectly with one of the friendliest vibes in the already very hospitable SAR. Crack open a bottle of a boutique vinho verde, sink back into one of the comfortable couches and dream the day away.

31A Rua de São Paulo, Macao, +853 2836 5182, macausoul.com

Just below the iconic Dom Pedro V Theatre, Terra is a two-in-one gem: a coffee bar by day (serving up some of the best in town) and a craft beer bar by night. Even though the coffee machine switches off at 8pm, they stay open till midnight. This small corner spot can cater to those looking for a chilled evening spent sampling some of the finest international microbrews, bottled and on tap, but can also turn lively when they host their regular roster of live musical acts.

20 Rua Central, Macao, +853 2893 7943, fb.com/terracoffee