19 more Philippine restos get Michelin Guide recognition

MANILA, Philippines — On its second edition in the Philippines, the Michelin Guide recognized 19 new food establishments across Manila, Cebu, Pampanga and Cavite, bringing the number of honorees this year to 127.

The new additions across Manila, Cebu, Pampanga and Cavite were cited by the gastronomy recognition body for their world-class culinary identity.

“Manila continues to lead with chef-driven restaurants, tasting menus, and ambitious contemporary concepts, while Cebu draws strength from its lechon, seafood, charcoal-grilled dishes, and convivial home cooking,” the Michelin Guide said.

Makati-based restaurant Helm retained its two-Michelin stars, while Asador Alfonso, Celera, Gallery by Chele, Hapag, Inatô, Kása Palma, Linamnam and Toyo Eatery maintained its one-Michelin star distinction.

Flow in Makati joined the guide with a one-star distinction for the extensive use of local ingredients that create “varied textures and layered sauces to craft flavors that are innovative and harmonious.”

Meanwhile, Michelin recognized 31 establishments as Bib Gourmand up from its 25 awardees last year.

Among the new Bib Gourmand food places are Apag Marangle and Tito Boy in Pampanga, Balay Dako and Bawai’s Vietnamese Kitchen in Cavite, Azela in Manila, Tatang’s Lechon and Kalipay in Cebu and C.H.E Bacolod Chicken House Express in Makati. 

Ato-ah in Cebu and Butcher Boy in Las Piñas were promoted to Bib Gourmand from the Selected list last year.

Under the Michelin Selected, 86 establishments were named this year, up from 74 in the inaugural edition.

The 18 newly recognized were Abé (Taguig), Bombvinos Bodega, Cyria’s Kandingan, Digámo, Elaia by Cyma, Haliya, Idalia, Kokeek’s Manokan, Kong, Kumedor, Liyab, Makanai, Marjo’s Pochero, Mila’s Tokwa’t Baboy (San Andres), Oyster Bay, Playa, Souq and Tadhanà.

Michelin also awarded former overseas Filipino worker Chef Frances Tariga of Tadhanà with the Opening of the Year recognition and former seafarer Chef Francis Lacson of Digámo with the Young Chef award.

Chef Clyde Joshua Zafra of Tito Boy received the service award while bar beverage manager Ron Job Sanchez of Automat was given the Exceptional Cocktails Award.

In a speech, President Marcos said the government will support culinary education for aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals to strengthen the industry.