Filipino Cuisine Made Its Debut into Michelin Guide

Filipino Food is Getting International Recognition with its Debut in the Michelin Guide

The Philippines has made its debut in the Michelin Guide with the launch of the MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026, announced on October 30, 2025. This historic achievement recognized nine restaurants with Michelin Stars—one earned a prestigious two-star rating, while eight others received one star. Additionally, 25 restaurants, including 19 in Metro Manila and 6 in Cebu, were honored with the Bib Gourmand distinction for outstanding food at reasonable prices, and one Green Star was awarded for sustainable gastronomy. Special awards were also presented for Young Chef, Service, and Exceptional Cocktails, highlighting local culinary talent and creativity. 

The guide celebrates the vibrant food scene, tradition, innovation, and hospitality found throughout the country, firmly placing the Philippines on the international culinary map.​

Notable Highlights

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  Two Michelin Stars: Helm by Josh Boutwood achieved two stars, marking a significant milestone in Philippine gastronomy.​

  https://www.joshboutwood.net/about

• One Michelin Star: The following restaurants received one star each: Asador Alfonso, Celera, Gallery by Chele, Hapag, Inatô, Kasa Palma, Linamnam, Toyo Eatery.​

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  
  

  
  
  

• Bib Gourmand: A new wave of family eateries and contemporary bistros, including Cochi by Marvin Agustin, were acknowledged for excellence and value.​

• Geographic Focus: The first Michelin stars were awarded to establishments in Metro Manila, with Bib Gourmands extended to Cebu locales, reflecting a lively mix of regional flavors.​

Cebu has officially entered the global culinary spotlight as 16 of its restaurants were recognized in the inaugural Michelin Guide Philippines 2026, with four earning Bib Gourmand honors and 12 named under the Michelin Selected category.

Significance

This debut signals global recognition of Filipino cuisine, chef-driven innovation, and unique local flavor traditions. The event cements Manila as an essential "Eat Manila" destination for food lovers, creating excitement for culinary travel and broadening international appreciation of the country’s dining culture

BREAKING! The Philippines is officially on the global culinary map! Helm by Josh Boutwood earns two Michelin stars, making history as the country’s first-ever two-star restaurant.

Eight more top restaurants, including Asador Alfonso, Celera, Gallery by Chele, Hapag, Inatô, Kasa Palma, Linamnam, and Toyo Eatery, each received one Michelin star in the inaugural Michelin Guide Philippines.

The awards, announced at an exclusive ceremony at the Manila Marriott Hotel, also recognized Gallery by Chele with the Michelin Green Star for sustainability and highlighted rising stars and exceptional service across the nation.

This is a historic moment for Filipino cuisine — the world is watching!

Meanwhile, In my previous posting, I indicated that my favorite recipe from our Special Filipino Dinner was Biko ( Sweet Rice Cake) topped with chocolate. 

Did you know that the best way to enjoy the cake was to mix a little bit of the chocolate toping with the rice cake. In that way you can taste the sweetness of the topping. Usually the toping is Caramel or Latik.  Latik is the toasted, crispy coconut curds used as a topping for biko, a Filipino sticky rice cake. It is made by cooking down coconut milk or cream, which causes the oil and solids to separate; the solid curds are then strained and toasted to a golden brown. 

Joel used the recipe of Linda's Orais Mother. Linda is a new THD Employee at the Front Desk. Again Welcome, Linda.

  

Finally, Speaking of Filipino Cuisine: 

I received numerous verbal comments from THD Residents, that they enjoy the special Filipino Dinner, THD offered celebrating FAHM. Here are some of the written comments, I received posted in my blogs.

Comment: Good morning, David. My name is Susan Taylor and I am Bob Fabry's wife. I just want to tell you how much we enjoyed the dinner you arranged for us this week. It was delicious!! I have not been familiar with Filipino food in the past, but that dinner convinced me I'd like to taste more of it. 

I have located two local restaurants, Tropa Modern Filipino in Lafayette and Isla Grande in Pleasant Hill. I'm sure you know both of them and I would like to know what you think of them. Also, are there other Filipino restaurants in the area? I'd really appreciate any information you can give me on this topic.

Also, thank you for your comments on employee turnover. I find it disturbing, and am frustrated at not knowing how to get more information about the situation. I doubt management would talk about it, but I hope they are taking your comments seriously and plan to address the problem in a productive way. Thanks again for the dinner. All the best, Susan

My Response: Susan:   Tropa Restaurant in Lafayette is an upscale modern restaurant with the menu more on Party Filipino Dishes with Spanish Influence. Isla is an average good Filipino restaurant popular to the average Filipino palate. There is a Bib Gourmand Filipino Restaurant in the Temescal District of Oakland, The FOB Kitchen, that I also recommend. I appreciate your comment on employee turnover here at THD. If you need additional detail on the 3 restaurants mentioned above, I have written detailed postings previously. Just search on my blog or googled me typing David B Katague. A list of my blogs is on line. 

I love to talk to you in person if you have the time. Susan, here's my previous postings on Philippine Cuisine.

https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2025/07/the-rich-and-flavorful-world-of.html

David 

Jane W. commented on "The Filipino Special Dinner Was A Gastronomic Delight"

16 hours ago

Such a wonderful change…..in so many ways! Thanks…..and kudos to you for your ‘insistence!’

David B Katague commented on "The Filipino Special Dinner Was A Gastronomic Delight"

18 hours ago

What a delightful evening, David, thanks to you!!! Each dish was delicious and carefully chosen to teach us more about your fascinating heritage! I really enjoyed your choices and explanations, along with recipes. Thank you for creating this remarkable dinner for us all. With appreciation, Sue & Mitzi

Linda B commented on "The Filipino Special Dinner Was A Gastronomic Delight"

20 hours ago

David, I was reluctant at first, but I also wanted to try it. Four of us at our table just loved it! Thank you for putting in the time to put it all together. Delicious!!!!

Andi commented on "The Filipino Special Dinner Was A Gastronomic Delight"

22 hours ago

Great meal, especially the chicken…very tender and juicy. Thanks, David and THD kitchen!

Christi Lucero Farewell Message to All THD Residents

Christi Says Goodbye. It's Official, Christi Lucero Followed Ted Treat Resignation in Just a Couple of Days Apart. Is THD Activity Section curse ?  Or As Shakespeare says in Hamlet, Something is rotten in Denmark? Meanwhile, the incoming Activity Manager, Vanessa De Guzman is expected to start her first day on November 12.    

 💚

Dear Residents of The Heritage Downtown,

I wanted to take a moment to say how much I truly enjoyed my time working with all of you. It was such a joy getting to know so many wonderful people — each of you made my days brighter. I especially treasure the laughter we shared during our excursions; the trip to the Oakland Zoo will always stand out as one of my favorite memories.

I also have such fond memories of our Saturday craft sessions with all the ladies — and David! Those afternoons were always full of laughter, creativity, and connection. And our tea party together was such a special day — so much fun, so much joy. I hope they’ll plan another one for you in the spring; you all deserve another beautiful afternoon like that.

I’m so sorry I didn’t get the chance to say goodbye to everyone in person. You all hold a special place in my heart, and I will miss you dearly. Ted and I talked about how nice it would be to meet up in Walnut Creek sometime — maybe for coffee, to share a few laughs, say our proper goodbyes, or simply celebrate the holidays together. I hope that might still happen.

To those I missed, like you, Sue Holt — I was looking for you on Wednesday and regret that I didn’t get to say goodbye. Please know that I was thinking of you, and of all the wonderful residents who made this job so meaningful.

Even though things didn’t work out the way we hoped, Ted and I both wanted nothing more than to bring joy, activities, and happy moments to your days. Our hands were tied at times, but our hearts were always in it. You made us smile, and I will always be grateful for the time we shared.

With much love,

Christi

my emal address is christilucero@gmail.com

Lets try and meet on a afternoon in Walnut Creek for coffee or wine.!

Just know I loved you all.  Happy H

Personal Note: THD Residents wished you good luck in your new venture. I missed you in our 💚Arts and Craft Projects...David  

Here's my Food For Thought For Today:

Lastly, the recent Resignations of Ted Treat and Christi Lucero reminded me of the following article: Why Some Organizations Struggle with High Employee Turnover

Employee turnover is more than just a staffing issue — it’s a reflection of an organization’s culture, leadership style, and priorities. When talented individuals consistently leave, it often signals deeper problems within the workplace. While there are many contributing factors, three stand out as the most common causes: low pay without benefits, micromanagement, and dead-end positions.

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1. Low Pay Without Benefits: When Hard Work Feels Unrewarded

Compensation is one of the clearest indicators of how much an organization values its people. When employees feel underpaid or receive no meaningful benefits such as healthcare, retirement contributions, or paid leave, morale quickly erodes.
Even the most loyal workers eventually start looking elsewhere when they realize their dedication isn’t matched by fair compensation. Low pay not only drives turnover but also discourages productivity — employees begin to do the bare minimum rather than striving for excellence.

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2. Micromanagement: The Silent Killer of Motivation

Micromanagement is one of the most toxic workplace behaviors, often disguised as “attention to detail” or “hands-on leadership.” In truth, it communicates a lack of trust. When managers constantly hover, question every decision, or demand control over every task, employees feel suffocated and demoralized.

Here are some of the harmful effects of micromanagement:

• Stifled creativity: Employees stop thinking independently because every idea must pass through a controlling filter.

• Low morale: Constant oversight sends the message, “I don’t trust you,” which quickly drains enthusiasm.

• Reduced productivity: Instead of focusing on meaningful work, employees spend time appeasing the manager or second-guessing themselves.

• High burnout rates: The stress of constant scrutiny leads to frustration, anxiety, and eventually resignation.

• Loss of talent: The most capable employees — those who value autonomy — are often the first to leave.

Micromanagement may give short-term results, but in the long run, it breeds disengagement and drives away the very people who could have helped the organization grow.

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3. Dead-End Positions: When There’s Nowhere to Go

Employees thrive when they see a future for themselves — a chance to learn, advance, and be recognized. In organizations that offer no clear path for promotion or personal growth, workers eventually feel stuck.
A “dead-end job” creates a sense of stagnation, where effort no longer equals opportunity. Over time, this lack of progress leads to disengagement and resignation, often to competitors who provide better career prospects.

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The Bigger Picture: The Cost of Turnover

High turnover doesn’t just affect morale; it’s expensive. Constantly recruiting, hiring, and training new staff drains both time and money. Moreover, frequent departures disrupt workflow, weaken team cohesion, and can damage an organization’s reputation among job seekers.

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Building a Healthier Workplace

Reducing turnover begins with respecting and empowering employees. Pay them fairly. Trust them to do their work. Provide room for growth and recognize achievements. Leadership isn’t about control — it’s about creating an environment where people want to stay and contribute their best.

When organizations invest in their people, they don’t just retain employees — they cultivate loyalty, creativity, and long-term success.

Tai Chi- The Gentle Dance of Balance and Healing

The other day, I pass by the Yoga Room. Four Ladies were doing Tai Chi with teacher named David, my name-sake.  I joined them for a few minutes. I found it boring and would rather do the Zumba again.   Today’s reflection is about exploring a new way to move mindfully as we age — one that nurtures both body and spirit.

Tai Chi: The Gentle Dance of Balance and Healing

Lately, I’ve been hearing quite a bit about Tai Chi — that ancient Chinese practice often described as “meditation in motion.” It’s now being offered free at our Active Senior Community, two hours each week. The timing, unfortunately, conflicts with another activity I usually attend. Still, I find myself pausing to think: perhaps this might be worth rearranging my schedule.

Tai Chi has long been praised for improving balance, flexibility, and overall physical well-being — qualities that become more precious with each passing year. As someone approaching 91, living with chronic leg pain and Stage 4 kidney disease, I am always looking for ways to keep moving and maintain some harmony between mind and body.

What appeals to me about Tai Chi is its gentleness. Unlike other forms of exercise that push the body to its limits, Tai Chi flows with the body’s rhythm. It combines slow, deliberate movements with deep breathing and mindfulness — a kind of physical poetry that connects movement with thought. Even just watching a group of seniors practicing in the park is mesmerizing. There’s a calmness, a centeredness, that radiates from them.

Scientific studies back up what practitioners have known for centuries. Tai Chi improves balance and reduces the risk of falls among older adults. It strengthens leg muscles, enhances flexibility, and even helps lower stress and anxiety. Some research shows it can gently boost cardiovascular health and improve sleep. These aren’t small benefits — they’re the kind that make daily living a little smoother, a little safer, and a lot more peaceful.

But beyond the science, I think the deeper appeal of Tai Chi lies in its philosophy — the idea of harmony between body, breath, and mind. At this stage of life, I’ve come to appreciate activities that nurture inner calm as much as physical strength. Tai Chi, it seems, invites both.

Perhaps, then, it’s time I gave it a try — to stand with others in quiet motion, to breathe deeply, and to let go of the stiffness and tension that aging brings. Maybe that one hour a week could be more than exercise; maybe it could be another way to honor life’s rhythm and balance — one graceful movement at a time.

At this point in my journey, I am learning that health is not only measured in numbers, but in the calmness of the heart.

Meanwhile, here's the  AI Overview on Tai Chi

Tai chi is a low-impact martial art that combines slow, gentle movements with deep breathing to improve balance, flexibility, and mental well-being. It offers various health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving cognition, and helping with conditions like arthritis and low-back pain. Tai chi has ancient Taoist roots and includes several different styles, such as the Chen, Yang, and Wu styles.  

Key characteristics

• Gentle and flowing movements: 

  Tai chi involves a series of slow, deliberate, and flowing motions that help improve flexibility and coordination. 
• Deep breathing: 

  It emphasizes deep, controlled breathing to help calm the mind and body. 
• Focus on balance: 

  The practice is particularly effective at improving balance and can reduce the risk of falls, especially in older adults. 
• Mind-body connection: 

  It is considered a form of "meditation in motion" that fosters a connection between the mind and body. 

Health benefits

• Physical: 

  Improves walking function, motor learning, and joint health, particularly for those with osteoarthritis. 
• Mental: 

  Reduces anxiety, depression, and stress, and can improve cognitive function. 
• Other conditions: 

  May help with symptoms of fibromyalgia, type 2 diabetes, and cancer-related fatigue. 

How to get started

• Consult a doctor: 

  It is wise to consult a doctor before starting, especially if you have chronic health conditions.
• Find a class: 

  Look for a class or follow-along video to learn the basic movements from a qualified instructor.
• Practice regularly: 

  Consistent practice, even just a couple of times a week, can lead to noticeable improvements. 

Styles of tai chi

• Chen style: One of the oldest styles, created by Chen Wangting.
• Yang style: A widely practiced and popular style, created by Yang Luchan.
• Wu style (Hao): Created by Wu Yuxiang and Hao Weizhen.
• Wu style: Created by Wu Quanyou and his son Wu Jianquan.
• Sun style: Created by Sun Lutang. 
• 
  
• Finally,

Studies have revealed that humming significantly increases nitric oxide production by the brain with some studies showing an incredible 1400% increase in just 10 seconds.

Nitric oxide is a gas that acts as a crucial chemical messenger in the body, primarily by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow and blood pressure. This gas is produced in the brain, where it is synthesized by different cell types, including neurons, glial cells, and endothelial cells lining blood vessels.

Humming increases nitric oxide production by using oscillating airflow to improve gas exchange between the paranasal sinuses, which produce nitric oxide, and the nasal cavity.

Increased nitric oxide production is excellent for your health as it relaxes and widens blood vessels, which improves blood flow, lowers blood pressure and delivers more oxygen and nutrients to muscles and organs. This leads to benefits like improved cardiovascular health, better exercise performance and recovery, enhanced brain function and a stronger immune response.

NOTE: In my fact checking this, the AI Overview on google said “this claim is an exaggeration, nitric oxide production is increased by 15 fold not 1400%”… 15 fold is 1400% so just shows you can’t always trust AI…

Lastly, My Food For Thought For Today:

https://www.facebook.com/reel/2131201030705705

And my lunch for Today-Beef Burrito and Left over beef sinigang ( I added lemon to add a little sourness to the soup), from our last night Special Filipino dinner. Thank you all for your positive comments on the Food last night.