PH restaurants receive Michelin stars, recognition

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippines marked a historic moment in its culinary and tourism industries as 108 establishments from Manila, its surrounding areas and Cebu were recognized in the inaugural MICHELIN Guide Philippines 2026.

The prestigious list includes one restaurant awarded with. two Michelin Stars, eight earning one star, 25 receiving the Bib Gourmand distinction, and 74 recognized as Michelin Selected. The inaugural guide celebrates the creativity, authenticity and dedication of Filipino chefs and culinary teams.

Chef Josh Boutwood’s Helm led the selection with two Michelin Stars for its modern tasting menu inspired by local ingredients and seasonality. The intimate eight-course experience for 10 guests reflects Boutwood’s Filipino heritage and global culinary perspective.

Eight other restaurants received one Michelin Star: Asador Alfonso, Celera, Gallery by Chele, Hapag, Inatô, Kasa Palma, Linamnam and Toyo Eatery.These reflect the range of Filipino and international dining — from fine dining to innovative takes on local cuisine.

The Bib Gourmand list — honoring restaurants offering excellent food at moderate prices — features 25 establishments: 19 in Manila and environs and six in Cebu. Among Cebu’s honorees are Abaseria Deli & Café, CUR8, Esmen, Lasa, Pares Batchoy Food House, and The Pig & Palm. Cabel, Palm Grill Diliman, Manam, and Morning Sun Eatery were among the recipients from Manila.

Sustainability was also recognized, with Gallery by Chele receiving the Michelin Green Star for its commitment to community sourcing, biodiversity, and waste reduction.

Special awards highlighted outstanding individual talent. Don Patrick Baldosano of Linamnam received the Young Chef Award, Erin Recto of Hapag won the Service Award for hospitality, and Benjamin Leal of Uma Nota was honored with the Exceptional Cocktails Award.

The launch of the Michelin Guide Philippines was held Oct. 30 at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Newport World Resorts, gathering chefs, diplomats and industry leaders to celebrate the country’s culinary milestone.

Michelin Guide International Director Gwendal Poullennec said the debut award honors a new generation of Filipino and international chefs inspired by local heritage and hospitality.

“Our inspectors were truly impressed by the authenticity and creativity found across the country. What they discovered was nothing short of extraordinary — an energetic, diverse and soulful culinary landscape that reflects the art of all people,” he said.

Poullennec said Filipino cuisine is “bold, generous and deeply personal,” telling “a story of heritage and innovation, where sweet, salty, sour and umami harmonize to create flavors that are both comforting and exciting.”

“What sets the Philippines apart,” he continued, “is the new generation of chefs, many under 30 years old, some who have honed their skills abroad, others right here at home. Together, they are shaping a new era for modern Filipino cuisine: innovative yet rooted, contemporary yet unmistakably Filipino.”

He also praised the country’s renowned hospitality.

“The warmth and genuine care of the Filipino people is woven into every experience, whether at a casual eatery or fine dining establishment. It always leaves a lasting impression,” he said.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco lauded the recognition as a milestone in the nation’s tourism journey. “The Philippines stands before the world tonight, proud of its people, its heritage and the flavors that embody our nation’s grace and strength,” she said.

She added that gastronomy has become a key pillar of the National Tourism Development Plan, promoting sustainability and community empowerment.

The Department of Tourism said the recognition reflects President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision for a globally competitive, proudly Filipino tourism industry under the “Love the Philippines” campaign.