Filipino chefs, cooks, and small food businesses are reporting higher sales and increased customer traffic following the release of the MICHELIN Guide’s first Philippine selection, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT).
The DOT highlighted the development during its Resto-Run Caravan, where Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco met several MICHELIN-recognized establishments across Metro Manila.
Morning Sun Eatery, a small roadside diner in Quezon City awarded a Bib Gourmand, reported that its daily sales have doubled since the announcement. Owner Elizabeth “Nanay Beth” Mortera said the surge in customers has required them to increase production of their dishes such as dinakdakan, dinuguan, barbecue, and pinakbet.
“Dumoble po ang kita. Sa pila pa lang po ng mga customer, wala pang two hours o three hours, ’yung unang luto po namin ay ubos na kaagad. Nagdagdag po kami ng kilo at amount ng luto namin; from 15 kilos, nadoble po,” Mortera said.
(Our revenue has doubled. Based on the volume of customers lining up, our first batch of products was sold out in less than two to three hours. We have since increased both the quantity and weight of our production, from 15 kilos, it has now doubled.)
Frasco said the eatery’s experience demonstrates how the MICHELIN Guide is benefiting both small and established restaurants. She said the Guide’s arrival recognizes a broad range of Filipino culinary establishments.
Across Metro Manila, restaurants included in the Guide reported longer service hours, more reservations, and higher interest from local and foreign diners.
Helm chef and owner Josh Boutwood, whose restaurant received two stars, said the recognition encourages them to further develop their work. Offbeat Bistro chefs Angelo Comsti and Don Baldosano said their restaurant has begun attracting more customers after being listed, with Baldosano receiving the MICHELIN Young Chef Award.
One-star Toyo Eatery head chef and owner Jordy Navarra thanked the DOT for supporting the culinary sector following the Guide’s release.
The Resto-Run Caravan visited 15 MICHELIN-recognized restaurants and food establishments in Quezon City, Taguig, Makati, and Chino Roces, after the DOT and MICHELIN handed over plaques to 53 awardees during a ceremony at Novotel Manila.
The caravan followed the launch of the MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs and Cebu 2026 in October, marking the Philippines’ first inclusion in the international guide.
Frasco said the Guide is expected to support the DOT’s efforts to promote the Philippines through its culinary heritage.
“What drives us in the Department of Tourism under the vision of President Marcos is the desire to re-introduce the Philippines to the world from the strength of the Filipino culture and what better way to introduce our culture is through food,” she added.
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