Margarita “Gaita” Forés, a trailblazer in the culinary world who brought both Italian and Filipino cuisine to new heights, has passed away at the age of 65.
Renowned for her unwavering passion for authentic flavors, dedication to sustainability, and efforts in putting Filipino cuisine on the global map, she leaves behind a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire chefs and food enthusiasts alike.
Although she was born into a family with a deep appreciation for fine dining, Forés did not originally plan on pursuing a career in the culinary arts. Her love for cooking was ignited during a transformative journey to Italy in the 1980s. Immersing herself in the kitchens of Italian home cooks, she gained firsthand knowledge of the significance of fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
This experience profoundly shaped her culinary philosophy, one centered on simplicity, authenticity, and deep respect for ingredients. Determined to bring these principles back to the Philippines, she dedicated herself to introducing Filipinos to genuine Italian cuisine while simultaneously honoring the rich culinary traditions of her own homeland.
Forés began her journey in the food industry by catering private events, quickly earning a reputation for her skill and dedication. In 1997, she launched Cibo, a modern Italian café that transformed casual dining in the Philippines. At a time when most Italian restaurants in Manila leaned towards commercialized pasta and pizza, Cibo introduced a more traditional, ingredient-driven approach to Italian cuisine. The brand flourished, expanding to multiple locations and becoming a beloved institution in the country.
Her culinary ventures grew beyond Cibo, leading to the establishment of Lusso, an upscale champagne and caviar lounge, and Grace Park, a farm-to-table restaurant that championed local, sustainably sourced ingredients. Through her restaurants, Forés demonstrated that food was a reflection of culture, history, and innovation.
While widely recognized for her expertise in Italian cuisine, Forés was equally passionate about elevating Filipino food on the global stage. She firmly believed that Filipino flavors deserved worldwide recognition and tirelessly worked to introduce the country’s rich culinary heritage to a broader audience.
Her contributions to the industry were honored in 2016 when she was named Asia’s Best Female Chef by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. This prestigious recognition not only celebrated her personal achievements but also underscored the growing global appreciation for Filipino cuisine.
Forés proudly represented the Philippines at international culinary events, where she introduced global audiences to iconic Filipino dishes such as sinigang, adobo, and laing. She collaborated with renowned chefs from around the world, skillfully blending Filipino ingredients with international techniques to highlight the versatility and depth of the country’s cuisine.
Forés was a passionate advocate for sustainable farming and ethical sourcing. She worked closely with local farmers and food producers, promoting organic ingredients and responsible agricultural practices. Her commitment to the farm-to-table movement not only ensured the quality of her dishes but also uplifted small-scale farmers and strengthened the local food ecosystem.
She was equally dedicated to education, serving as a mentor to young chefs and culinary students throughout her career. Forés believed in nurturing the next generation of Filipino chefs, encouraging them to embrace their roots while pushing the boundaries of culinary creativity.
Forés was a cultural ambassador who reshaped how Filipino cuisine was perceived both locally and internationally. Through her dedication to authenticity, sustainability, and mentorship, she played a vital role in shaping the future of the Philippine culinary industry.
Her passing marks the end of an era, but her influence will endure. The restaurants she built, the chefs she mentored, and the love for Filipino food she cultivated in countless individuals will continue to thrive.
Simpol.ph joins the Filipinos and the nation in mourning the loss of one of the most esteemed culinary figures.
