‘This is for the Philippines’

“A love letter to the Philippines.”

That was how Spanish chef Chele Gonzalez described his culinary journey in the country as he was honored with five recognitions at the recent Michelin Guide: Manila and Environs and Cebu 2026, the Michelin Guide’s inaugural awarding of special honors and stars to Philippine restaurants, in Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay City.

Gonzalez was the first big winner to be called onstage for the Green Star award, which “editorially highlights restaurants that, among the Michelin Guide selection, have inspired and impressed inspectors with their committed vision for the future of gastronomy.”

“By gathering a community of innovative establishments driven to pursue progress in the role of restaurants, the Green Star fosters dialogue and collaboration, encouraging establishments to inspire and evolve together,” the citation reads.

According to Michelin Guide, Gallery by Chele, Gonzalez’s fine dining restaurant in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, has been chosen for the Green Star for its “culinary excellence meets environmental integrity” – “from local sourcing and waste reduction to educating diners.”

“Gallery By Chele has been recognized for their farm-to-table ethos. Gallery by Chele practices waste-reduction and commits itself to biodiversity and community sourcing. The restaurant forms a community deeply committed to presenting another vision of gastronomy,” Michelin Guide adds in a statement.

Besides the Green Star, Gallery by Chele also earned a One Michelin Star. Gonzalez also went up onstage to receive the Michelin Selected honors for his other restaurants — Enye and Cantabria, and a One Michelin Star for Asador Alfonso, Chele’s joint venture with the Calma family.

In his speeches, Gonzalez dedicated the awards to the Philippines.

“This signifies a lot of appreciation for all of the hard work that is put into the restaurants,” Chef Chele said. “Gallery by Chele opened the doors almost 13 years ago. Through the 13 years, hundreds of people have been passing there. So this award is for all of them, and this award is also for the Philippines. The inspiration of the restaurants will be the Philippines, our trips and everything that we do.”

“We started traveling 13 years ago all around the country to highlight, you know, the beautiful ingredients, the people and everything that inspired the Gallery by Chele – that is the Philippines. Cheers to you!” he declared.