The Philippines has entered a new era gastronomically. For the first time ever, the Michelin Guide has unveiled a complete selection for Manila & Surrounds and Cebu 2026 - instantly propelling the Philippines into the region's distinctive gastronomic destinations. The new edition features 108 selected establishments, including one two-star restaurant, eight one-star restaurants, 25 Bib Gourmand awards, and 74 Michelin Selected establishments.
Helm: The First Two-Star for the Philippines
The evening belonged to Chef Josh Boutwood. His restaurant, Helm, in Makati became the first-ever Philippine restaurant to be awarded two Michelin stars.
Boutwood's cuisine combines British-Filipino roots, Spanish techniques, and the depth of local ingredients. Tastings are thoughtful, refined, and surprisingly personal at the same time. For Michelin inspectors, it is "cuisine that pushes boundaries".
Eight Unique One-Star Restaurants
The Filipino scene showcased a wide range of styles - from modern Filipino cuisine to creative fusion:
- Asador Alfonso
- Celera
- Gallery by Chele
- Hapag
- Inatô
- Kasa Palma
- Linamnam
- Toyo Eatery
Each is based on a different philosophy, but they are united by precision, attention to detail, and a deep respect for ingredients.
Sustainability at the Heart: The Michelin Green Star
The Green Star award went to Gallery by Chele, a restaurant that has long worked with local farmers, minimizes waste, and actively supports the community.
It is a clear signal that sustainability is no longer a trend, but an integral part of modern fine dining in the region.
Special Prizes: Young Talent, Exceptional Service, and Cocktail Creativity
Michelin also presented three special awards:
- Young Chef Award
- Service Award
- Exceptional Cocktails Award: Benjamin Leal of Uma Nota, awarded for his fresh and imaginative cocktails.
Bib Gourmand: 25 Places That Prove Great Food Doesn't Have to Be Expensive
The Bib Gourmand selection of 25 restaurants brings a mix of home cooking, street food roots, and modern interpretations. Inspectors praised the value for money and authenticity of flavors that have made the Philippines famous.
Michelin Selected
The selection also included 74 establishments - 62 in the Manila area and 12 in Cebu. These are not starred, but a clear signal that these restaurants set a high standard of quality and character.
What Does This Mean for the Philippines?
The Michelin Guide entry is a pivotal moment for local gastronomy. The country, known around the world for street food, adobo, and halo-halo, now gets the opportunity to show that its cuisine can be as ambitious, innovative, and complex as neighboring Japan or Singapore.
For chefs, producers, and farmers alike, this is a major milestone. And for the region as a whole, a new gastronomic magnet.
Source: Michelin Guide
