The culinary landscape of the Philippines has marked another milestone with the release of the second edition of The MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu 2027. Unveiled at a ceremony held at the Manila Marriott Hotel, Newport World Resorts on Oct. 30, 2026, the new selection highlights a total of 127 recommended establishments. This includes 1 Two MICHELIN Stars restaurant, 9 One MICHELIN Star restaurants, 31 MICHELIN Bib Gourmand establishments, and 86 MICHELIN-Selected restaurants.

The latest guide points to a dining scene that is rapidly maturing, characterized by a stronger expression of Filipino culinary identity. Chefs across Manila, Cebu, Pampanga, and Cavite are increasingly drawing inspiration from local ingredients, regional traditions, and heritage, supported by a rising generation of culinary talent. Notably, Filipino cuisine accounted for nearly 60% of the newly selected establishments, demonstrating a clear pride in the country's gastronomic roots.

A Growing Confidence in Filipino Gastronomy

According to Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide, the Philippine culinary scene is evolving while remaining deeply connected to its heritage. Poullennec noted that inspectors observed a growing confidence among chefs in showcasing local ingredients, traditions, and regional flavors, while bringing fresh perspectives and creativity to their craft. This evolution has resulted in a dining landscape that is increasingly diverse, distinctive, and reflective of the country's rich gastronomic heritage.

This confidence is visible not only in high-end establishments but also across the broader selection, where traditional flavors are being reinterpreted through modern techniques. The focus on regional heritage—spanning from the culinary capital of Pampanga to the coastal influences of Cebu—underscores a collective effort to define what modern Philippine gastronomy represents on the global stage.

The Starred Selection: Retaining and Expanding Excellence

The pinnacle of the 2027 selection features 10 MICHELIN-Starred restaurants, showcasing both consistency and new achievements.

Helm Retains Two Stars

Located in Makati, Helm has successfully retained its Two MICHELIN Stars, reaffirming its position as one of the premier dining destinations in the Philippines. Led by Chef Josh Boutwood, the restaurant continues to impress inspectors with creative seasonal menus that blend precision, bold flavors, and refined craftsmanship.

FLOW Joins the Elite

The most significant addition to the starred lineup is FLOW, located in Makati, which has earned One MICHELIN Star. Led by Chef Kevin Jonathan Uy, the restaurant entered the guide after impressing inspectors with carefully crafted dishes, thoughtful technique, and a clear culinary vision grounded in local ingredients and flavors.

Consistent Excellence Across One-Star Venues

In addition to the new star for FLOW, 8 restaurants successfully retained their One MICHELIN Star distinction, demonstrating the high standards and consistency of the local dining scene. These establishments include:

  • Asador Alfonso (Cavite)
  • Celera (Makati)
  • Gallery by Chele (Taguig)
  • Hapag (Makati)
  • Inatô (Makati)
  • Kása Palma (Makati)
  • Linamnam (Parañaque)
  • Toyo Eatery (Makati)

Together, these restaurants represent a diverse range of culinary styles, from modern interpretations of Filipino heritage to contemporary international techniques.

Value and Diversity: Bib Gourmand and Selected Categories

Beyond the starred establishments, the guide highlights a broad spectrum of dining options that cater to different preferences and budgets.

Bib Gourmand

MICHELIN-Selected

The MICHELIN-Selected category has expanded to include 86 restaurants, with 18 new additions. This segment reflects the growing depth, creativity, and diversity of the culinary landscape across the covered regions, offering a wide array of dining experiences that highlight local talent.

Celebrating Industry Professionals: The Special Awards

The MICHELIN Guide also presented four Special Awards to recognize outstanding individuals whose passion, skill, and dedication contribute to memorable dining experiences in the Philippines:

  • MICHELIN Opening of the Year Award: Awarded to Chef Frances Tariga of Tadhanà (Makati). Chef Tariga brings a fresh international perspective to Manila through a deeply personal reimagining of Filipino cuisine, expressed through refined techniques and creative presentation.
  • MICHELIN Young Chef Award: Awarded to Chef Francis Lacson of Digámo (Marikina). A seafarer-turned-chef, Chef Lacson shows exceptional talent and a clear vision in a modern, personal expression of Filipino cuisine with a strong sense of place and cultural identity.
  • MICHELIN Service Award: Awarded to Clyde Joshua Zafra, Restaurant Manager at Tito Boy (Pampanga). Zafra leads his young team with assuredness and energy, pairing thoughtful recommendations with genuine warmth that captures the welcoming spirit of Pampanga.
  • MICHELIN Exceptional Cocktails Award: Awarded to Ron Job Sanchez, Bar Beverage Manager at Automat (Makati). Sanchez brings exceptional creativity to his cocktail list, utilizing fermentation, infusion, clarification, house-made herbal oils, and fat-washing to craft complex, food-friendly drinks.

The complete selection of The MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu 2027 is accessible via the official MICHELIN Guide website and mobile application.