With several MICHELIN-starred foreign restaurant franchises in the Philippines, including Tim Ho Wan and Kam’s Roast, gaining popularity among Filipino diners, many local restaurateurs and restaurant owners have expressed their desire to someday make it to the coveted Michelin Guide — should it eventually make its way to our shores.
“Our aspiration is to be the first MICHELIN-starred restaurant in the Philippines,” said Atty. Nilo Divina during the inauguration of Café Aurora in 2023.
“We have accomplished things that initially we thought we would not be able to accomplish, and I’m hopeful that with our very excellent, dynamic chefs, matched with the support of the firm, we will be able to realize our aspiration,” said the founder and managing partner of DivinaLaw, who co-owns Aurora.
The journey begins
Well, restaurateurs and local foodies no longer have to wait much longer as the MICHELIN Guide just announced that “their journey into the Philippines begins.”
“The MICHELIN Guide has arrived in the Philippines, setting its sights on Manila and environs and Cebu for its highly anticipated 2026 debut,” said a post on their official website.
Vibrant dining scene
Apparently, as we speak and as of presstime, the MICHELIN Guide’s expert inspectors are already exploring what they describe as “the country’s vibrant dining scene.” They further emphasize that “Filipino cuisine is poised to take center stage on the global culinary map.”
With this exciting development, the MICHELIN Guide’s ultimate goal is to shine a spotlight on the Philippines’ most talented chefs and dedicated teams, celebrating their passion, innovation, and deep respect for local flavors and traditions.
“Our MICHELIN Inspectors have been following the evolution of the Filipino culinary scene with great excitement. The country’s deep-rooted culinary traditions, combined with a strong openness to global influences, create a uniquely diverse dining culture,” Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the MICHELIN Guide, shares on their website.
“In Manila, we see young, talented chefs redefining Filipino cuisine with fresh perspectives; while Cebu, as a leading tourist destination, offers an impressive range of dining experiences with world-class hospitality.”
So who among our many talented chefs and which dining establishments and food & beverage outlets will make the cut? Like all of you, we wait with bated breath.
Features Reporter
