The MICHELIN Guide has announced the upcoming inclusion of Manila, its surrounding areas, and Cebu in the prestigious 2026 selection. This marks a significant step as the renowned guide expands its reach into the vibrant food scene of the Philippines. The inaugural restaurant list will be revealed in late 2025, with anonymous MICHELIN Inspectors already scouring the regions to find the finest dining spots.
A New Chapter for Manila, Cebu, and the Surrounding Regions
The MICHELIN Guide is set to focus on Metro Manila and Cebu, while also exploring nearby areas like Pampanga, Tagaytay, and Cavite. The selection aims to highlight the best of these dynamic regions, showcasing the talents of chefs and teams who fuse creativity with local culinary traditions.
Gwendal Poullennec, the International Director of the MICHELIN Guides, expressed his excitement about the growing Filipino food scene. “The Philippines boasts deep culinary traditions that blend with global influences, creating a unique and diverse dining culture,” said Poullennec. “In Manila, young chefs are reinterpreting Filipino cuisine with fresh perspectives. Meanwhile, Cebu, a leading tourist hub, offers a remarkable range of dining experiences with world-class hospitality.”
The Philippines’ Thriving Culinary Scene
The Philippines is home to over 7,600 islands, each contributing to the nation’s diverse culinary offerings. From Manila’s rich Filipino heritage to Cebu’s international appeal, the Philippines continues to evolve as a food destination that attracts both local food lovers and global visitors.
A highlight of Filipino cuisine is lechon, particularly famous in Cebu. This iconic dish, known for its crisp skin and tender meat, is a mainstay at festive occasions. Lechon’s international fame underscores the Philippines’ growing reputation as a culinary destination, and the MICHELIN Guide’s recognition will help elevate Filipino cuisine on the global stage.
Government Support for the MICHELIN Guide’s Arrival
The Department of Tourism (DOT) of the Philippines has expressed strong support for the MICHELIN Guide’s expansion. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomed the guide’s acknowledgment of the country’s culinary heritage. “The recognition of Filipino cuisine celebrates the creativity and diversity that define our food culture,” said Frasco. “We invite travelers to experience the warmth, love, and innovation of Filipino cuisine while savoring culinary creations shaped by global influences.”
Frasco further emphasized that the MICHELIN Guide’s arrival is not just about food but also enhances the Philippines’ tourism profile. “In the Philippines, every dish tells a story and every flavor invites visitors to explore our rich cultural tapestry,” she added.
The MICHELIN Guide Methodology
The MICHELIN Guide, established in 1900 by the Michelin tire company, has always aimed to support automotive travel by highlighting exceptional restaurants. The guide’s selection process remains rooted in five universal criteria, ensuring consistency and fairness across all regions:
- The quality of ingredients
- Mastery of cooking techniques
- Harmony of flavors
- The personality of the cuisine
- Consistency across time and the entire menu
The MICHELIN Guide’s Distinctions
The MICHELIN Guide awards various distinctions to top-performing restaurants. The most prestigious of these is the MICHELIN Star, which is given in three levels:
One Star: “A very good restaurant, worth a stop.”
Two Stars: “Excellent cooking, worth a detour.”
Three Stars: “Exceptional cuisine, worth a special journey.”
The guide also includes the Bib Gourmand category, which honors restaurants offering great food at a moderate price.
Transparent and Rigorous Evaluation Process
The MICHELIN Guide’s reputation for impartiality stems from its team of anonymous, expert inspectors. These professionals conduct continuous and independent evaluations, ensuring that only the finest restaurants earn recognition.
The full selection of restaurants in the MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026 will be unveiled at a special event in the last quarter of 2025. The guide will be available digitally, free of charge, on its website, mobile apps, and social media platforms.
The arrival of the MICHELIN Guide will further solidify the Philippines as a top-tier culinary destination, highlighting the rich and evolving food culture of Manila, Cebu, and their surrounding areas.
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