The Philippines has made culinary history with the awarding of its first-ever Michelin Stars, placing nine local restaurants on the world map of fine dining.
In an awarding ceremony in Pasay City, Helm earned the distinction as the country’s first and only two-Michelin-star restaurant. Asador Alfonso, Celera, Gallery by Chele, Hapag, Inatô, Kasa Palma, Linamnam, and Toyo Eatery each received One Michelin Star, recognizing “high-quality cooking worth a stop.”
The Michelin Guide Philippines debut edition features 108 restaurants from Manila, nearby provinces, and Cebu, including 25 recipients of the Bib Gourmand distinction for quality meals at reasonable prices and 74 Michelin Selected restaurants recognized for excellence in ingredients, technique, and consistency.
Michelin Guide International Director Gwendal Poullennec praised the country’s bold and innovative culinary spirit, noting that a new generation of Filipino chefs continues to redefine modern Filipino cuisine — “innovative yet rooted, contemporary yet unmistakably Filipino.”
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco celebrated the milestone, calling it “a moment that honors not only our cuisine but also the heart of our people.”
This marks the first time Philippine restaurants have been included in the world-renowned Michelin Guide, a proud milestone that showcases Filipino talent and creativity to global audiences.