The Philippines has officially joined the world’s fine dining map with the launch of the Michelin Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026, marking a historic first for the country’s culinary scene. Unveiled at the Manila Marriott Hotel, the debut edition highlights 108 establishments — including one Two-Star, eight One-Star, and 25 Bib Gourmand awardees — alongside 74 Michelin Selected restaurants that represent the archipelago’s growing gastronomic diversity.
Leading the lineup is Helm, which earns two Michelin Stars for its contemporary tasting menu that bridges Chef Josh Boutwood’s British-Filipino heritage with precision-driven creativity. Helm’s eight-course menu, served to just ten guests around an intimate counter, impressed inspectors with its seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation — earning it the country’s highest distinction.
Eight other restaurants receive one Michelin Star, each showcasing distinctive approaches to Filipino and global cuisine. These include Asador Alfonso, Celera, Gallery by Chele, Hapag, Inatô, Kasa Palma, Linamnam, and Toyo Eatery — from modern interpretations of local dishes to refined international techniques rooted in sustainability and innovation.
In addition, Gallery by Chele receives the Michelin Green Star for its dedication to sustainable gastronomy, with a farm-to-table ethos, waste reduction efforts, and community sourcing practices.
The Bib Gourmand list — recognizing restaurants offering excellent food at moderate prices — includes 25 eateries (19 in Manila and six in Cebu). Standouts include Bolero for its Mediterranean-inspired Spanish fare, Lampara for inventive Filipino cooking, and The Pig & Palm in Cebu for its European small plates focused on pork.
The guide also honors individual excellence with three special awards. The Young Chef Award goes to Chef Don Patrick Baldosano of Linamnam, celebrated for his innovation with local ingredients. Erin Recto of Hapag earns the Service Award for her exemplary hospitality, while Benjamin Leal of Uma Nota receives the Exceptional Cocktails Award for his inventive cross-cultural mixology.
“With this first edition, we pay tribute to a new generation of Filipino chefs and international talents who have embraced the Philippines,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide. “Our inspectors were impressed by the country’s creativity, authenticity, and hospitality — from fine dining to family-run eateries.”
The debut of the Michelin Guide in the Philippines marks a defining moment for Southeast Asia’s culinary landscape, spotlighting the nation’s evolving food culture — one rooted in heritage yet ready to engage with the world.
