Michelin Guide Starts Restaurant Evaluations in Manila & Cebu Ahead of 2026 Launch

The Philippines is poised to enter the ranks of global culinary elite as Michelin Guide inspectors begin evaluating restaurants in Metro Manila and Cebu for inclusion in the 2026 debut edition, according to a recent confirmation  .

What This Means for Philippine Dining

• Historic milestone: This marks the first time Michelin inspectors will consider Filipino establishments for inclusion in the Philippines’ edition.

• Geographic scope: Metropolitan Manila and Cebu now join prominent culinary markets like Singapore, Bangkok, Tokyo, and Hong Kong under Michelin’s global influence.

• Global spotlight: Inclusion elevates Filipino cuisine, putting it on the radar of serious food travelers, critics, and industry professionals.

What’s at Stake

• Industry Impact: A Michelin endorsement can significantly boost a restaurant’s prestige, tourism appeal, and revenue.

• Pressure to Perform: Chefs and spectators are expecting an intensified wave of culinary refinement and innovation in the two metro areas.

• Culture Meets Quality: Inspectors will evaluate based on core criteria—product, technique, consistency, and creativity—balancing Filipino tradition with global standards.

Watch This Space: Key Areas to Observe

1. Anticipated Michelin Picks

   
   

   • Likely contenders include past awardees like Toyo Eatery, Gallery by Chele, Meta, and Blackbird.

   
   

2. Industry Response

   
   

   • Culinary groups and hospitality professionals are gearing up with quality training, menu innovation, and service training to meet Michelin expectations.

   
   

3. Tourism Implications

   
   

   • A Philippine Michelin Guide could draw gastronomic travelers and elevate Manila and Cebu’s culinary scenes, supporting DOT’s “Love the Philippines” goal for 2025’s 8.4 million international arrivals.

   
   

Final Take

With Michelin’s evaluators officially in the country ahead of the 2026 launch, the Philippines’ culinary community is entering an exciting phase of recognition and refinement. This isn’t just about earning stars—it’s about placing Filipino food firmly on the global map.

The countdown to the inaugural Michelin Guide is on—and the next 12–18 months may redefine how the world sees Filipino dining.