To anyone who’s ever wondered why the hell there’s no Michelin Star in the Philippines, brace yourselves. The moment we’ve all been waiting for is finally here. The Michelin Guide, the holy grail of culinary recognition, is officially landing in the Philippines in 2026. Yes, you read that right. The Michelin Guide Philippines is happening, and it’s about to put Filipino food on the map like never before!
For years, we’ve been asking, “Why is there no Michelin Star in the Philippines?” I mean, come on. We’ve got a food scene that’s as vibrant as a jeepney’s paint job, with flavors that can make even the most seasoned food critics weak in the knees. From the smoky allure of inasal to the umami bomb that is sinigang, Filipino cuisine is a treasure trove of culinary genius. Yet, somehow, we’ve been overlooked by the Michelin gods. Until now.
What will be the first Michelin Star Restaurant in the Philippines?
Now, the million-dollar question: which restaurants will snag the first Michelin Stars in the Philippines? According to the Michelin Guide website, the inspectors are setting their sites in Manila and Cebu, so the first Micheline Star restaurant in the Philippines might come from these places. Aside from Manila and Cebu, the nearby areas will also be explored such as Tagaytay, Cavite, and Pampanga.
While it’s too early to tell, there are a few strong contenders. Fine-dining establishments like Toyo Eatery and Gallery by Chele have been making waves both locally and internationally. Many of our Binondo food establishments are also worthy of that Michelin rating. These restaurants have mastered the art of elevating Filipino cuisine while staying true to its roots, and they’re likely to catch the attention of Michelin inspectors.
But let’s not count out the underdogs. Some of the best food in the Philippines comes from unassuming places—a turo-turo joint in Pampanga, a sisig spot in Quezon City, or a bulalo joint in Tagaytay. If the Michelin Guide truly embraces the spirit of Filipino dining, they’ll recognize that greatness doesn’t always come with a fancy price tag.
The website also shares that the following universal criteria will be followed in the selection:
• 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
Michelin Guide in the Philippines: What Took So Long?
Let’s address the elephant in the room. Why did it take this long for the Michelin Guide to notice the Philippines? The absence of Michelin Star restaurants in Manila (or anywhere else in the country) has been a sore spot for Filipino chefs and food lovers alike. Michelin so far only operates in certain countries and it’s just unfortunate that the Philippines has only been recently added to their list.
Filipino food is anything but humble. It’s bold, it’s complex, and it’s got soul. Not to mention we have different variations of the same dish across the archipelago. The problem wasn’t the food; it was the need for more exposure. Thankfully, that’s about to change. With the Michelin Guide Philippines set to launch in 2026, the world will finally get a taste of what we’ve known all along: Filipino cuisine is world-class.
What Does This Mean for Filipino Restaurants?
The arrival of the Michelin Guide in the Philippines is a game-changer. For starters, it’s going to put our local restaurants on the global map. Imagine walking into a carinderia and seeing a Michelin rating proudly displayed next to the lechon. You get the idea.
Manila, in particular, is poised to become a hotspot for Michelin Star restaurants. The city’s dining scene has been quietly evolving over the years, with chefs pushing the boundaries of traditional Filipino cuisine. From modern takes on adobo to avant-garde desserts featuring ube and buko, Manila’s culinary innovators are ready to shine on the Michelin stage.
And let’s not forget the potential impact on tourism. The Michelin Guide is a magnet for food tourists, and with the Philippines already being a top travel destination, this could be the push we need to become a global food capital.
Final Thoughts
The Michelin Guide Philippines is more than just a rating system; it’s a celebration of talent, creativity, and passion for food. It’s a chance to show the world that our food is not just delicious—it’s extraordinary.
So, mark your calendars for 2026, for the Michelin Star Philippines debut. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or just someone who loves a good kare-kare, this is a moment worth celebrating. The world is about to discover what we’ve known all along: Filipino food is Michelin-worthy.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to practice my adobo recipe. Just in case Michelin comes knocking.