Hawker Hawker welcomes St. Regis Chengdu’s executive Chinese chef Mike Li for an exclusive ‘Savor Sichuan’ collaboration

This autumn, Hawker Hawker at W Macau invites discerning diners on a culinary journey to China’s spice-loving heartland with a limited-time guest-chef collaboration featuring Executive Chinese Chef Mike Li of The St. Regis Chengdu. Bringing the aromatic “Savor Sichuan” menu and the generous spirit of Chengdu to Macau, this exclusive residency promises an authentic taste of one of China’s most celebrated regional cuisines.

With more than two decades of experience spanning both Sichuan and Cantonese kitchens, Chef Li is a master of balancing the elemental forces that define great Sichuan cooking: heat, fragrance, texture, and seasoning. His dedication to the craft was formally recognized in 2022 when he was named a Qingyang District Craftsman—an honor that speaks to his technical precision and deep understanding of Sichuan’s culinary heritage. Now, he brings that expertise to Macau, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience Chengdu’s vibrant flavors without leaving the city.

The “Savor Sichuan” menu is a carefully curated celebration of Chengdu’s signature dishes, each plate reflecting the bold, layered approach that has made Sichuan cuisine beloved worldwide. During his residency at Hawker Hawker, Chef Li presents a selection of these Chengdu classics, with selected dishes continuing as part of the restaurant’s lunch and dinner buffet offering through November 30. This extended run allows guests ample opportunity to explore the depth and diversity of Sichuan cooking at their own pace.

At the heart of the collaboration are Sichuan staples with undeniable personality. Highlights include Bobo Chicken Leshan style—a beloved street-food favorite featuring tender poached chicken and skewered delicacies bathed in a fragrant, complex red oil. Equally enticing is the Chilled Chicken in Chili Oil, a Sichuan classic steeped in rich, aromatic red oil with bold layers of spice that awaken the palate. Both dishes exemplify the region’s signature ma la—the tingling, numbing heat that is as much about sensation as it is about flavor. Designed to be shared and savored, these creations encourage communal dining, where each bite invites conversation and discovery.

Chef Li’s approach goes beyond mere heat. His dishes showcase the nuanced balance that defines authentic Sichuan cuisine: the interplay of fragrant aromatics, the contrast of textures, and the careful layering of seasonings that build complexity rather than simple fire. Every element is considered, from the quality of the chili oil to the freshness of the ingredients, ensuring that each dish delivers both authenticity and elegance.

For Macau’s food lovers, this collaboration represents a unique bridge between two great culinary cities. Chengdu’s generous spirit—where meals are meant to be shared, savored, and celebrated—finds a natural home at Hawker Hawker, a venue known for its lively atmosphere and commitment to exceptional Asian cuisine. Whether guests are longtime admirers of Sichuan food or curious newcomers ready to explore, Chef Li’s residency offers an accessible yet refined introduction to one of China’s most dynamic culinary traditions.

Don’t miss this limited-time opportunity to experience the “Savor Sichuan” menu at Hawker Hawker. With selected dishes available through November 30 as part of the lunch and dinner buffet, there has never been a better moment to indulge in the bold, aromatic flavors of Chengdu—crafted by one of its most respected chefs.