Amado Forés takes over Cibo, AF Hospitality to preserve Margarita Forés’ legacy

Amado Forés has officially stepped in to lead the brands built by his mother, the late chef and restaurateur Margarita Forés.

Through a major shift in leadership, he now heads both AF Hospitality and Cibo, bringing together many of his mom’s most recognized food and lifestyle ventures under one group.

AF Hospitality, which he founded in 2019, includes a mano, Ramen Ron and Steak & Frice. Now, it also manages Lusso, Grace Park and Margarita Florals.

Alongside these changes, Amado also takes over as president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Cibo, the Italian restaurant chain his mother launched in 1997.

Cibo’s core team remains in place. Margarita Signature Caterer now falls under its supervision, keeping the same level of detail and quality that defined the brand’s reputation.

“This has been a time of deep reflection, and I carry with me not only grief, but also the profound honor of continuing what she built,” Amado said in a statement.

To support the company’s expansion, his wife Carmela Fortuna Forés joins AF Hospitality as managing director. She brings with her close to 10 years of retail and marketing experience.

There are also several updates to the leadership structure at Cibo. Chef Jorge Mendez, who worked with Margarita for over a decade, remains as executive chef and now also serves as director of Research and Development (R&D).

Edgar Allan Caper, a long-time executive, becomes managing director. Mercedes Forés, who handled marketing and R&D, now takes on the role of chief operating officer. Bledes Forés Legarda and Oye Forés keep their positions as managing director and executive vice president.

The group has decided not to move forward with the planned restaurant “Margarita” in Ayala Triangle. Amado described the decision as one that came from deep responsibility and love for his mother’s work. He believes there are better ways to honor her vision in future projects.

Several brands under AF Hospitality are preparing for growth. A mano, which ranked ninth in the 2025 Asia-Pacific list of 50 Top Pizza, secured a spot at the upcoming World’s 50 Top Pizza Awards in Naples this September. Ramen Ron and Steak & Frice are also planning to open new branches in 2026.

Grace Park, which features many of Margarita’s family recipes, was recently highlighted on the Netflix series “Somebody Feed Phil.”

Lusso, her fine dining restaurant that blends European style with Filipino touches, celebrates its 16th year and is expanding its Greenbelt 5 location.

Margarita Florals, known for its distinct sculptural flower arrangements, continues to take on events and will launch a new website soon.

Cibo, meanwhile, celebrates its 28th anniversary this year with new branches opening in Iloilo, La Union and Baguio.

Chef Jorge Mendez is also behind a new Japanese concept called Makanai, which opens in August.

Margarita Signature Caterer, on the other hand, continues to serve clients with the same care and professionalism that defined chef Margarita’s name in the catering industry.

With the leadership now in the hands of her family and closest collaborators, the businesses she built move forward while staying true to her original vision.