Southern Italian Classics Celebrated At SJM’s Don Alfonso 1890 In Macau

Culinary legend Chef Alfonso shared his insight on elevating Macau’s foremost Italian fine dining.

Culinary legend Chef Alfonso Iaccarino, co-founder of the globally acclaimed, Michelin-starred Don Alfonso 1890 in Italy, returned to Macau nearly two decades since introducing his visionary southern Italian cuisine to Asia. In a celebration of gastronomy, heritage and artistry, guests had the rare opportunity to savour the maestro’s signature creations at Don Alfonso 1890 at Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau. Savour centuries-old family recipes, featuring quality, locally-sourced ingredients expressed through creative, contemporary interpretations.

Showcasing the culture and culinary traditions of the Sorrento Peninsula and the Amalfi Coast, Don Alfonso 1890 is renowned for innovative fare set against a vibrant, convivial ambience. The Macau outpost is helmed by Head Chef Federico Pucci, highlighting a taste of Naples alongside an unparalleled Versace experience. The interior design showcases precious Italian marble and a Venetian terrazzo inspired by the one located in the historic Versace Villa on Lake Como, handcrafted by artisans following the same traditional techniques used in 18th-century Italian villas.

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How are the culinary traditions of the Sorrento Peninsula and the Amalfi Coast showcased at Don Alfonso 1890?

We use the tomatoes, mozzarella, pasta, lemon, fresh vegetables and extra virgin olive oil we produce ourselves in the region — which, oh my goodness — you just can’t compare. That’s the difference: rather than importing everything, you need to be clever when you have the best ingredients right under your nose.

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How does the Macau outpost compare to that of the Michelin-starred, family-owned Don Alfonso 1890 in Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi?

Don Alfonso 1890 in Macau has an elegant, opulent feel, whereas Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi is situated in a historic building in Southern Italy which represents the region’s heritage. I’d say the main difference is the ambience, because the Amalfi Coast is much more relaxed. Italian service is like no other — you’re taken on a journey. It’s great to have Michelin stars today but this was created many years ago and was the result of the family working day and night.

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How does the ambience of Don Alfonso 1890 encapsulate the concept as a whole?

This new international experience combines luxurious Versace design while inviting guests to connect with the food. It’s great for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries and where important people (like the governor) come with their families every Sunday.

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Which of the signature dishes at Don Alfonso 1890 is your personal favourite and why? 

Normally my favourite dish is the one I’m going to create tomorrow, because it’s something new to try. But if I had to pick one, maybe the lemon souffle, inspired by the legendary “Limone di Sorrento” for its intense fragrance and sweetness, prepared the traditional way. While it’s not complicated to make, it needs to be served at different times depending on when each table finishes, so you have to be confident with your technique to ensure it’s perfect.

Book today to savour this and more signature creations at Don Alfonso 1890 at Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau!

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Don Alfonso 1890, Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau, Rua do Tiro, Cotai, Macau, +853 8881 1390, www.palazzoversace.mo/en/restaurants-n-bars/don-alfonso-1890