Ep 2. Macau

In this episode of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, the host travels to Macau, a unique city-state that is often referred to as the Las Vegas of Asia. Macau is known for its glamorous casinos, luxurious resorts, and rich Portuguese heritage. Bourdain sets out to explore both the glitzy, modern side of Macau and its historical roots.

The episode opens with Bourdain taking in the view from the top of the Grand Lisboa casino, one of the most iconic landmarks in Macau. From there, he visits the Fisherman's Wharf theme park, which is designed to look like a miniature version of the world. Despite its kitschiness, Bourdain notes that there is something charming about the park, which is popular with families and tourists.

Next, Bourdain heads to the Red Market, where he samples some of the fresh seafood and exotic fruits that are sold there. He also explores the surrounding streets, which are filled with hole-in-the-wall shops and food stalls. Bourdain notes that Macau's food scene is heavily influenced by both Portuguese and Chinese cuisine.

After lunch, Bourdain meets up with a local historian, who takes him on a tour of some of Macau's historic sites. They visit the Guia Fortress, which was built in the early 1600s to defend against Dutch invaders. Bourdain is impressed by the fortress's survival, despite the fact that it has been through fires, typhoons, and even a pirate attack.

Later in the episode, Bourdain visits the Coloane Village, a picturesque neighborhood on the southern tip of Macau. There, he tries some traditional Macanese cuisine, including pig's ear and curry crab. He also visits a local bakery, where he tries the famous Portuguese egg tarts, which are a must-try for any visitor to Macau.

Finally, Bourdain heads back to the casinos to check out the nightlife scene. He visits the Cotai Strip, a stretch of high-end resorts and entertainment venues. He's impressed by the sheer opulence of the Wynn and the Venetian, but notes that he prefers the more low-key vibe of some of the smaller casinos.

Throughout the episode, Bourdain is struck by the contrast between the old and the new in Macau. He notes that while the city is rapidly modernizing, there are still pockets of history and tradition to be found if you know where to look. He also highlights the impact that the Portuguese colonization had on Macau's culture and cuisine, and notes that it's a unique hybrid of east and west.

Overall, this episode of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations is an engaging and insightful look at this fascinating city-state. Whether you're a fan of Bourdain's irreverent style or simply interested in learning more about Macau, this is an episode that's not to be missed.