MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Philippines has officially cemented its place on the global fine dining map with the historic launch of the MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026. The inaugural guide, unveiled on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at the Manila Marriott Hotel, bestowed its prestigious stars and distinctions upon a select group of the nation’s top dining establishments.
The debut selection is a watershed moment for Filipino gastronomy, immediately elevating the country’s status as a must-visit culinary destination in Southeast Asia.
⭐⭐ Helm Secures Historic Two-Star Debut
In a stunning entry, Helm, led by visionary Chef Josh Boutwood, was awarded Two MICHELIN Stars, a rare distinction signifying “excellent cooking, worth a detour.”
Helm’s success is rooted in Chef Boutwood’s deeply personal and creative tasting menu, which masterfully fuses his half-British, half-Filipino background with Spanish influences. Inspectors lauded the restaurant for its “intimate, precise and profoundly expressive” courses, recognizing a disciplined approach to modern cuisine that reflects “craftsmanship, identity and culinary evolution.”
“This selection pays tribute to a new generation of Filipino chefs — and international chefs who have embraced the Philippines — drawing inspiration from local heritage, bold flavors and heartfelt hospitality,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide.
⭐ Eight Restaurants Earn One MICHELIN Star
Eight other establishments across Manila and its Environs & Cebu were recognized for their “high-quality cooking, worth a stop,” securing One MICHELIN Star. These restaurants showcase the incredible diversity and innovation thriving in the Philippine dining scene, ranging from modern takes on Filipino flavors to global fusion concepts.
The celebrated One-Star recipients are:
🍴 More Than Just Stars: A Full Culinary Spectrum
Beyond the star rankings, the 2026 guide recognizes a total of 108 establishments, highlighting the breadth of the country’s culinary traditions, from high-end dining rooms to beloved street-side eateries.
Key distinctions include:
- Bib Gourmand: 25 restaurants were recognized for offering exceptional value.
- MICHELIN Selected: 74 restaurants made the list for the quality of their food.
- Green Star: One restaurant was honored for its pioneering work in sustainable gastronomy.
The launch also included three MICHELIN Guide Special Awards celebrating the Young Chef, Service, and Exceptional Cocktail categories, underscoring the passion and integrity that define the country’s evolving dining landscape.
The inaugural MICHELIN Guide Philippines is expected to drive significant international attention and tourism, reaffirming the archipelago as a compelling destination where “tradition and innovation coexist deliciously,” and where “every plate tells a tale of community, culture and care.”
