When the Michelin Guide arrives in a country, it’s like getting a stamp of approval from one of the biggest names in dining. It puts local restaurants and chefs on the global map, attracting food lovers and tourists eager to try the best eats.
A Michelin Star—or even a Bib Gourmand mention—can mean packed tables, more buzz, and a major boost in reputation. It also pushes restaurants to step up their game, raising the bar for the entire dining scene. Plus, it can bring in more investment and innovation, making the food culture even more exciting.
The Michelin Guide is finally coming to the Philippines. With inspectors already discreetly exploring Manila, Cebu, and nearby regions, the guide’s 2026 debut is set to spotlight the country’s rich gastronomic heritage and contemporary dining scene.
The Michelin Guide’s upcoming selection will feature restaurants in Metro Manila and Cebu, with potential inclusions from Pampanga, Tagaytay, and Cavite—regions celebrated for their culinary traditions.
“Our Michelin Inspectors have been following the evolution of the Filipino culinary scene with great excitement. The country’s deep-rooted culinary traditions, combined with a strong openness to global influences, create a uniquely diverse dining culture,” said Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guide.
“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.”
For many Filipinos, food is an integral part of culture and identity. The archipelago’s 7,641 islands offer a wealth of regional specialties, from the heirloom dishes of Pampanga to the seafood feasts of Cebu. The Michelin Guide’s arrival is expected to elevate these culinary traditions to an international audience while giving local chefs a new platform to showcase their skills.
The Department of Tourism has welcomed the guide’s arrival, seeing it as a boost for the country’s culinary tourism sector.
“The arrival of the Michelin Guide is not only a testament to our country’s culinary excellence but also a significant leap forward for Filipino tourism, with gastronomy now forming a key part of our national tourism priorities,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. “In the Philippines, every dish tells a story, and every flavor is an invitation to experience our nation’s rich cultural tapestry.”
The Michelin Guide rates restaurants based on quality, skill, flavor, uniqueness, and consistency. Those that qualify can earn one to three Michelin Stars. It also features the Bib Gourmand category for quality dining at reasonable prices.
The list will be announced in late 2025 and published online.