Renowned Filipino chef Margarita Fores, named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016, has died in Hong Kong. She was 65.
Fores was found unresponsive in her hotel room after missing a scheduled lunch meeting. Authorities have not disclosed the cause of death.
A pioneer in the culinary industry, Fores was known for elevating Filipino cuisine on the global stage. She owned several restaurants, including the Cibo chain, Lusso, Grace Park, and Alta.
Her advocacy for organic ingredients and commitment to high-quality Italian and Filipino cuisine earned her recognition in international circles.
Born in 1959 into the prominent Araneta family, Fores developed a passion for Italian food while living in New York. She trained in Italy in 1986 under three chefs, immersing herself in traditional Italian cooking. She started as a caterer before launching Cibo in 1997, offering Italian dishes at accessible prices.
Her restaurant Grace Park ranked 12th on Opinionated About Dining’s Top Casual Restaurants in Asia list in 2024. She also collaborated with Japanese chef Hiroyuki Tamura on “Batchoy Ramen,” blending Ilonggo flavors with Japanese techniques.
Beyond her restaurants, Fores appeared on international television shows, including Inspired with Anna Olson and CNN’s Culinary Journeys.
Fores was a two-time cancer survivor. She overcame thyroid cancer in 2006.