The Philippines has officially earned a spot on the Michelin Guide’s list of most exciting food destinations for 2026, marking a significant milestone for the country’s culinary reputation.
The Department of Tourism welcomed the recognition, which places the Philippines among 16 recommended global food destinations. The guide highlights the growing gastronomy scenes in Manila and Cebu.
With this recognition, the Philippines joins culinary destinations such as Italy, Turkey, China, Saudi Arabia, Canada, and Poland, according to Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco.
“Gastronomy is a vital expression of our national identity,” Frasco said. “This recognition supports our broader goal of strengthening sustainable tourism by celebrating what is authentically Filipino, elevating the people and places behind our food, and sharing our unique stories with the world.”
The Michelin Guide highlighted the country’s young chefs for their ability to balance traditional and modern cooking techniques.
Anonymous Michelin inspectors recommended iconic Filipino dishes such as sisig, sinigang, inasal, and adobo. The guide celebrated the dishes for their harmony of sweet, salty, and acidic flavors achieved through regional fruits, spices, and techniques like marinating and grilling.
The guide also emphasized the country’s abundant year-round fresh produce, which stems from the Philippines’ tropical climate.
“This year marks a milestone for Philippine gastronomy, from the arrival of the Michelin Guide to hosting Terra Madre Asia and the Pacific, and the upcoming UN Tourism World Gastronomy Forum in 2026,” Frasco added.
