Macau Tower is more than observation decks and thrill-seeker activities. As its full name indicates, the Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Centre include comprehensive facilities for meetings and conventions. Meanwhile, average folks will want to check out its shops and culinary outlets. While touristy places can place secondary concern on the quality of the food served there, Macau Tower features several delicious dining options that are worthwhile destinations in themselves.

Most visitors will probably want to try either the 360º or the 180º. The 360º Cafe (Level 60) is the premier revolving restaurant that features a sumptuous buffet day or night. Stellar selections of Portuguese and Asian specialties are served here, with additional choices for the pricier dinner buffet. As good as the quantity and quality of food is here, do not let it distract you from the magnificent views of Macau (and China) circulating around you. The dining areas are sophisticated without being stuffy, making it fine for either a romantic date or a group student excursion. The 180º Lounge and Grill extends only halfway around the tower and does not revolve as the 360º does, but it is like a skybox looking down towards the Observation Lounge on Level 58. I admit that watching some of the scared sightseers being dragged across the glass floor windows by their devilish companions was rather entertaining. Favorites like steaks, paella, and high tea can be enjoyed at the 180º.

Conventioneers who may not have time for sweeping panoramas may want to eat at Lua Azul. The establishment makes up for the lack of a view by serving delicious food. The interiors are quite elegant, making this one of the finer contemporary Chinese restaurants in Macau. Diners can observe the chefs preparing dishes within its glass-partitioned kitchen. The dim sum selection bowled me over in taste and appearance. The delightful deep-fried mashed taro pastries were cleverly designed to look like little baby chicks. Their "bills" were made of slivered almonds, which added a wonderful flavor enhancement to these crispy egg-shaped items. The steamed shrimp dumplings resembled adorably cute goldfish. My compliments to the chef here, for these dumplings were delicious despite the fact that I usually detest seafood! Almost as challenging for me as walking on the outer rim of the tower, I also tried seafood-laced items like the scallop and seaweed dumplings and the abalone and fungus puff. These morsels were not shaped like precious animals, but to my continued astonishment, they were delectable. I can honestly proclaim that my dim sum here was the best seafood I have ever enjoyed. Main courses at Lua Azul include dishes like the "Thousand Layer Pork".

There are still more restaurants and cafes within the vast complex, but I did not have the chance to try them. Macau Tower should definitely be on your itinerary if you are visiting Macau. Come for the views and the thrills -- stay for the food!