The MICHELIN Guide’s Journey into the Philippines Begins
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The MICHELIN Guide has officially embarked on its remarkable journey in the Philippines, focusing on the bustling gastronomic landscape of Manila and its surroundings, as well as the beautiful city of Cebu, for its highly anticipated debut in 2026. The MICHELIN Guide’s team of expert Inspectors is already immersed in the rich tapestry of the country’s vibrant dining scene, where the colorful and diverse flavors of Filipino cuisine are ready to shine and captivate food lovers around the globe, placing the Philippines firmly on the global culinary map.
MICHELIN Guide Philippines
The MICHELIN Guide is turning its gaze towards the Philippines, heralding an exhilarating new era for the nation’s vibrant culinary landscape. Today, this esteemed Guide proudly announces its latest expansion into the bustling gastronomic realms of Manila and Cebu. This fresh selection will delve into the lively neighborhoods of Metro Manila and the enchanting city of Cebu, while also setting out to explore the surrounding areas of Manila, including the culinary-rich regions of Pampanga, the scenic allure of Tagaytay, and the charming offerings of Cavite.
With their renowned discretion and unparalleled expertise, the anonymous MICHELIN Guide Inspectors have embarked on an extensive journey through these vibrant regions, diligently uncovering the most extraordinary culinary destinations. This eagerly awaited selection will illuminate the Philippines’ most gifted chefs and their devoted teams, honoring their unwavering passion, innovative spirit, and profound appreciation for local flavors and time-honored 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,” shares Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide.
“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.”
With 7,641 islands teeming with an array of tantalizing flavors, rich traditions, and daring culinary creativity, the Philippines emerges as a true gastronomic paradise where heritage elegantly intertwines with modern influences. From the vibrant dining scenes of Manila and its surrounding areas, where Filipino cuisine boasts profound regional roots and a myriad of unique dishes, to the bustling culinary culture of Cebu—a world-class tourist hotspot known for its lively hospitality—this nation’s ever-evolving gastronomic landscape continues to enchant palates from around the globe, inviting explorers to savor each delicious discovery.
The esteemed arrival of the MICHELIN Guide is proudly supported by the Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT). Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco warmly expresses this sentiment, stating, “We extend our heartfelt welcome to the MICHELIN Guide, a symbol of international recognition that celebrates the Philippines’ rich and vibrant culinary heritage. This guide highlights the exceptional diversity of flavors and the remarkable creativity that resonate through our nation’s cuisine. We take immense pride in sharing our colorful culture and distinct culinary traditions with the world, offering travelers a chance to indulge in unforgettable dining experiences across our bustling cities and breathtaking islands. We invite explorers to immerse themselves in the Philippines, where they can experience the love, warmth, and ingenuity of Filipino cuisine, while savoring innovative culinary creations that are deeply shaped by a medley of global influences.”
“The arrival of the MICHELIN Guide is not only a testament to our country’s culinary excellence but also a significant leap forward for Filipino tourism, with gastronomy now forming a key part of our national tourism priorities. In the Philippines, every dish tells a story and every flavour is an invitation to experience our nation’s rich cultural tapestry,” Secretary Frasco adds.
The MICHELIN Guide Methodology
The MICHELIN Guide, an esteemed culinary reference, was inaugurated in 1900 by the Michelin tire company with the visionary aim of fostering the burgeoning culture of automobile travel. Since its inception, the guide has steadfastly adhered to its foundational mission: to immerse itself in established gastronomic havens, offering discerning international travelers and passionate local food enthusiasts an invaluable roadmap to the finest dining experiences. It shines a spotlight on the vibrant tapestry of global culinary scenes, while simultaneously celebrating and promoting the art of travel, inviting all to embark on a journey of gastronomic discovery.
The selection will follow MICHELIN’s historic method based on five universal criteria to ensure consistency between each selection, including:
- The quality of the ingredients
- The mastery of cooking techniques
- The harmony of flavours
- The personality of the cuisine
- The consistency both over time and through the menu as a whole
The MICHELIN Guide Restaurant Selection
The MICHELIN Guide artfully conveys its esteemed restaurant reviews through a comprehensive system of accolades, recognizing exceptional dining establishments within its expansive selection. Among these distinctions, the most illustrious are the MICHELIN Stars, celebrated worldwide for highlighting the finest culinary experiences. A restaurant awarded one MICHELIN Star is recognized for “high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,” signifying a delightful meal that merits a visit. Those achieving two MICHELIN Stars are honored for “excellent cooking that is worth a detour,” indicating a dining experience that transcends the ordinary and warrants extra travel. The pinnacle of culinary recognition, three MICHELIN Stars, is bestowed upon restaurants for “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey,” showcasing an extraordinary level of artistry and dedication that beckons food enthusiasts from afar.
In addition to the prestigious Star ratings, this selection features the esteemed Bib Gourmand category. This distinction is awarded to restaurants that not only deliver exceptional quality food but also do so at a reasonable price, making fine dining accessible to all.
The MICHELIN Guide is dedicated to upholding the finest global standards in the selection of its restaurants. Our team of anonymous, seasoned inspectors—experts in the culinary field—engages in continuous and meticulous evaluations of dining establishments. Their rigorous assessments are designed to ensure that only those restaurants that exemplify excellence in cuisine, service, and atmosphere earn a place in our prestigious guide.
These evaluations are conducted with utmost objectivity and independence, ensuring that external influences have no bearing on the results. This unwavering commitment to impartiality and excellence guarantees that only the most exceptional dining establishments earn recognition.
The complete restaurant selection for the MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026 will be revealed at a prestigious event scheduled for the last quarter of 2025. This eagerly anticipated announcement will be available exclusively in digital format across all of the Guide’s platforms, including its website, mobile applications, and social media channels. Furthermore, it will seamlessly integrate with the global MICHELIN Guide restaurant and hotel selections, all of which can be accessed for free on its digital interfaces, inviting food lovers to explore a world of culinary excellence.
To learn more about the MICHELIN Guide history, methodology, or selection organization, please visit guide.michelin.com or follow our updates on youtube.com/MICHELINGuideAsia, facebook.com/MICHELINGuideAsia and instagram.com/MICHELINGuide.
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