Daily TribuneThe launch of the Michelin Guide in the country reinforced one thing we have always known to be true - the diverse flavors of Filipino food will always be worth the trip.
DURING the recent launch of the Michelin Guide in the Philippines, 75 restaurants were put in including two Michelin stars for Helm (left), and one Michelin star for Hapag (right).
Helm photo from @helmmnl; Hapag photo from @hapag.mnl both on Instagram.
Over the past few years, it's been a rising trend among travelers to pick destinations that are known for good food. Ranking high on these lists are countries whose cuisine have become global favorites. For example, around Asia, that would be the likes of Japan, South Korea, and Thailand. Often, a determinant would be the inclusion of restaurants in the much-revered Michelin Guide, which was launched in the Philippines late last year. Over 88 restaurants from around Manila, Cebu, and environs were included in the 2026 edition, of which eight were awarded stars.
The Michelin Guide also recently shared on social media their list of "Most Exciting Food Destinations" for 2026, highlighting 16 places that will make for one delicious foodie adventure. Comprised of both established favorites or those with emerging culinary scenes, the list states that "the world’s most exciting trips begin at the table," where one can find a plethora of options⸺from fine dining to quaint hole-in-the-wall places.
Italy claims three spots among the European destinations. Venice has long been known as a culinary heavyweight with its heady mix of fine dining restaurants alongside family-owned trattorias. The Amalfi Coast is known for its seasonal cuisine, and the new railway opens up doors for more travelers to the city, while The Dolomites is known for highly-localized food rooted in the terroir.
The Philippines joins in as one of three Asian foodie hotspots on the list, along with Cappadocia, Turkey and Jiangsu Province, China. Based on their recent visit to restaurants in Manila, Cebu, and nearby places, Michelin inspectors recognized the efforts of young chefs who are carving a unique food culture for the country by "balancing traditional and international techniques" but still keeping to their own culinary styles.
