MICHELIN Guide to Highlight the Culinary Excellence of Manila and Environs & Cebu in its Inaugural Edition

• The MICHELIN Guide announced its arrival in the Philippines for an upcoming 2026 selection
• The first restaurant selection will be revealed in the last quarter of 2025
• MICHELIN Inspectors are already in the field

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Media OutReach Newswire - 18 February 2025 - The MICHELIN Guide announced today its latest expansion into the Philippines. This new selection will focus on Metro Manila and Cebu, while also beginning to explore the environs of Manila, including Pampanga, Tagaytay, and Cavite. The guide revealed that its independent, anonymous inspectors have been thoroughly exploring these regions to identify the most outstanding dining venues. This selection will highlight the best of Manila and Environs & Cebu's dining scene, showcasing talented chefs and teams who embody passion, creativity, and respect for local culinary 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." Explained Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guides. "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 its 7,641 islands, diverse regional cuisines, and cultural fusion, the Philippines has a thriving food scene that embraces both authentic heritage and contemporary innovation. From Manila & Environs, where Filipino cuisine thrives with strong regional identity, to Cebu, a globally recognized tourism hub with a flourishing hospitality industry, the country's culinary landscape continues to evolve, attracting food lovers from around the world.

A standout example of the Philippines' celebrated cuisine is lechon, a signature dish renowned for its crisp skin and tender meat, especially in Cebu. This iconic dish elevates the Philippines as a top culinary destination, attracting food lovers to its bold flavors and rich traditions. The MICHELIN Guide's recognition will further boost global appreciation for Filipino cuisine, showcasing the country's diverse and dynamic food culture on the international stage.

The MICHELIN Guide's arrival is supported by the Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT). Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco stated, "We extend our warmest welcome to the MICHELIN Guide whose international recognition of the Philippines' rich culinary heritage celebrates the diversity of flavors and exceptional creativity that permeate our nation. We are proud to share our vibrant culture and distinct cuisines with the world through exceptional dining experiences across our dynamic cities and beautiful islands. We invite travelers to experience the love, warmth, and creativity of Filipino cuisine, shaped by diverse global influences."

"The MICHELIN Guide's arrival is a testament to our culinary excellence and a significant leap for Filipino tourism, with gastronomy now a key part of our national tourism priorities. Every dish tells a story, inviting all to experience our rich cultural tapestry." Secretary Frasco added.

The MICHELIN Guide Methodology

Created in 1900 by the Michelin tire company, the MICHELIN Guide supports automobile mobility and highlights world culinary scenes. It guides international travelers and local foodies to the best restaurants, promoting travel culture.

The selection follows MICHELIN Guide's method based on five universal criteria:

• Quality of ingredients
• Mastery of cooking techniques
• Harmony of flavors
• Personality of the cuisine
• Consistency over time and throughout the menu

Restaurant Selection

The MICHELIN Guide awards distinctions to special restaurants within its selection. The most famous are: One MICHELIN Star: "High-quality cooking worth a stop", Two MICHELIN Stars: "Excellent cooking worth a detour", and Three MICHELIN Stars: "Exceptional cuisine worth a special journey".

Additionally, the Bib Gourmand category recognizes restaurants offering good quality food at moderate prices.

To learn more about the MICHELIN Guide, please visit guide.michelin.com or follow updates on facebook.com/MichelinGuideAsia and instagram.com/michelinguide.

https://guide.michelin.com/
https://www.facebook.com/MICHELINGuideME
https://www.instagram.com/michelinguide
https://www.youtube.com/@MICHELINGuideAsia