By Andrea Pimpini 
Common Table Macau: Here’s my experience!
I’ve been talking about Macau quite a lot in recent months. Even though I’ve lived here for two years, every day I find new reasons to appreciate this fascinating city. The vibrant nightlife, the mix of cultures, and the endless food options make it a unique place to call home.
If I had to mention one downside, it would be the cockroaches. They are much larger than those in Italy, and at night you can see them everywhere. Once, one even flew onto my neck — an experience I’ll never forget, it literally traumatized me. But let’s move on to the real topic of this article: food.
Why I Keep Writing About Food in Macau
Food is one of the strongest cultural expressions of Macau. I’ve already written about Le Buffet at The Parisian, Macau Brasa & Grill, Aria by Chef D, and Hiro Ramen. I also covered the International Cities of Gastronomy Fest 2026 and my guest lectures at the University of Macau. Recently, I attended the Macao International Travel Expo (MITE) 2026.
So yes, I talk about food often — but in Macau, food is part of everyday life and identity. And today, I want to share my experience at Common Table Macau, a place that deserves attention.
Common Table Macau: Not Marketed as Italian, But Truly Authentic
Common Table doesn’t promote itself as an Italian restaurant, yet the Italian food here is better than many places that do. The pasta tastes handmade, and the pizza is outstanding. Their Neapolitan‑style pizza has a big, soft crust — exactly how pizza should be. Remember, pizza was born in Naples, and Common Table delivers a version that feels authentic.
The Pizza
The Margherita pizza is excellent, though I noticed the basil wasn’t the traditional variety. They used large leaves that lacked flavor compared to the small, aromatic basil usually found in Italy. Still, the dough and sauce were perfect, making it one of the best pizzas I’ve had in Macau.
The Pasta and Polpette
The pasta dishes are equally impressive. The Carbonara and pasta with sugo are delicious, balanced, and satisfying. They also serve polpette (meatballs) that are juicy and flavorful — a rare find in Macau.
Atmosphere and Dining Experience
The atmosphere at Common Table plays a vital role in the overall experience. Inside, the setting is cozy and comfortable, encouraging you to relax, enjoy your meal slowly, and spend quality time with friends or family. I usually go in the evening, which makes the experience even more enjoyable.
I did try lunch once, just to have a Margherita pizza, and it was worth it. The staff are attentive and open to special requests, which adds to the welcoming vibe.
Drinks: A Small Limitation
One limitation I noticed is the drink selection. Common Table doesn’t serve Coke or Pepsi, which is unusual since many people enjoy soft drinks with pizza. Instead, they offer juices, water, and a few other options. While this isn’t a deal‑breaker, it does slightly limit the experience for those who expect the classic pizza‑and‑Coke pairing.
Overall Impression
Despite minor drawbacks, Common Table Macau consistently delivers excellent food and a pleasant atmosphere. The combination of authentic Italian flavors, cozy ambiance, and attentive staff makes it a must‑visit spot in Taipa.
If you’re in Macau and craving real Italian pizza or pasta, Common Table Macau should be on your list — whether for lunch or dinner.
What makes Common Table stand out compared to other restaurants in Taipa is the balance between authenticity and accessibility. While many venues try to replicate Italian cuisine with mixed results, Common Table manages to deliver dishes that feel genuine without being pretentious. It’s the kind of place where you can bring friends for a casual evening or celebrate a special occasion, knowing the quality will be consistent. This versatility is part of its charm and explains why it has quickly become one of my favorite spots in Macau.
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