The Michelin Guide is set to make its highly anticipated debut in the Philippines, with Manila and Cebu joining its 2026 selection. Michelin inspectors have already begun assessing the country’s vibrant culinary scene, marking a major milestone for Filipino cuisine on the global stage.
This expansion will primarily focus on Metro Manila and Cebu but will also explore nearby dining destinations, including Pampanga, Tagaytay, and Cavite. Michelin’s anonymous inspectors, known for their discretion and expertise, are meticulously evaluating restaurants in these regions, seeking establishments that showcase exceptional craftsmanship, creativity, and a deep respect for local traditions.
Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the MICHELIN Guide. (SHARED PHOTO)
Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guide, expressed enthusiasm about the selection, highlighting the diversity of the Filipino dining scene. “Our Michelin inspectors have been following the evolution of Filipino cuisine with great excitement. The country’s deep-rooted culinary traditions, combined with a strong openness to global influences, create a uniquely diverse dining culture,” he said. “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, the Philippines boasts a rich culinary landscape where tradition and innovation merge. From Manila’s bustling restaurant hubs, where dishes are deeply rooted in regional heritage, to Cebu’s flourishing food culture driven by tourism and hospitality, the country continues to captivate both local and international palates.
Halo-Halo. (SHARED PHOTO)
The arrival of the Michelin Guide is supported by the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT), with Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcoming its entry as a recognition of the nation’s culinary excellence. “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,” Frasco said. She added that the guide’s presence is not only a testament to the country’s gastronomic achievements but also a boost to the tourism sector, as food becomes a key part of the Philippines’ travel identity. “In the Philippines, every dish tells a story, and every flavor is an invitation to experience our nation’s rich cultural tapestry,” she said.
Originally founded in 1900 by the Michelin tire company to assist motorists, the Michelin Guide has since evolved into one of the world’s most prestigious culinary references. The selection process follows five universal criteria to ensure consistency across destinations: quality of ingredients, mastery of cooking techniques, harmony of flavors, personality of the cuisine, and consistency over time.
Boodle Fight. (SHARED PHOTO)
Michelin awards its coveted stars to restaurants that meet its rigorous standards. One Michelin Star denotes “high-quality cooking that is worth a stop,” two Stars signify “excellent cooking that is worth a detour,” and three Stars represent “exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey.” In addition to star ratings, the guide also includes the Bib Gourmand distinction, which recognizes restaurants that offer high-quality food at a more moderate price.
Maintaining its commitment to integrity, the Michelin Guide relies on a team of anonymous, experienced inspectors who conduct independent and rigorous evaluations, ensuring that selections remain impartial and based solely on culinary merit. The full list of selected restaurants for the Michelin Guide Manila and Cebu 2026 will be announced in the final quarter of 2025. The selection will be available exclusively in digital format across Michelin’s website, mobile applications, and social media channels, joining the global Michelin Guide restaurant and hotel selections.
For more information on the Michelin Guide’s history, methodology, and selection process, visit guide.michelin.com.
