Daghang lami sa Cebu–the MICHELIN Guide is about to prove this fact as the prestigious restaurant rating system explores our very own culinary landscape.
The MICHELIN Guide Philippines is set to be inaugurated in 2026. With that comes the promising future of Cebu’s identity as a gastronomic destination for locals and tourists alike.
This vibrant Cebuano culinary landscape reflects both the traditional flavors and innovative culinary creations that the city is known for.
Cebu’s delicacies and top-tasting dishes are about to be globally adored very soon!
From classic Filipino dishes to modern fusion fare, Cebu will soon offer the MICHELIN Guide an eclectic mix of tastes that cater to a wide variety of palates and preferences.
What Is the MICHELIN Guide?
The MICHELIN Guide began as a humble initiative in 1900 by French brothers Andre and Edouard MICHELIN, founders of the MICHELIN tire company. Originally, it was a free handbook designed to assist motorists with travel essentials like maps, fuel stations, and accommodations.
Over time, it evolved to include restaurant listings, as the MICHELIN brothers recognized the growing importance of dining experiences for travelers.
By 1926, the guide started awarding stars to exceptional restaurants, initially with a single star and later expanding to a three-star ranking system in 1931.
This transformation turned the MICHELIN Guide into the globally respected authority on fine dining that it is today, rating over 30,000 establishments across multiple continents and continuing to shape the culinary industry.
In the Philippines, MICHELIN stars will be awarded to restaurants based on the Guide’s signature criteria: quality of ingredients, mastery of cooking techniques, harmony of flavors, personality of the cuisine, and consistency.
The international director of the MICHELIN Guide, Gwendal Poullennec, expressed, “Our MICHELIN Inspectors have been following the evolution of the Filipino culinary scene with great excitement.”
“The country’s deep-rooted culinary traditions, combined with a strong openness to global influences, create a uniquely diverse dining culture,” Poullennec added.
Cebu Restaurants That Deserve MICHELIN Recognition
With its stringent evaluation process, the MICHELIN Guide will not only recognize world-class dining establishments but also uplift the overall quality of the restaurant industry in Cebu.
The MICHELIN stars, Bib Gourmand, and MICHELIN Plate distinctions will highlight establishments excelling in different aspects of culinary excellence.
For local chefs and restaurateurs, this is an opportunity to elevate their craft and gain global recognition. With the increasing number of tourists seeking unique food experiences, the MICHELIN Guide will further solidify Cebu’s reputation as a must-visit destination for food lovers.
The Pig & Palm
Founded by MICHELIN-starred British chef Jason Atherton, The Pig & Palm offers a refined take on contemporary European cuisine with a touch of Filipino flavors.
The restaurant’s innovative menu and stylish interiors make it a strong candidate for a MICHELIN star.
- Exact Location: MSY Tower, Pescadores Rd, Cebu City
Tavolata
This Italian-inspired restaurant by The Abacá Group serves handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and carefully curated wines.
With its high-quality ingredients and mastery of Italian cuisine, Tavolata could earn a MICHELIN Plate or even a Bib Gourmand recognition.
- Exact Location: Design Center of Cebu, AS Fortuna St, Mandaue City
Yakski Barbecue
An iconic Cebuano barbecue joint, Yakski Barbecue is beloved for its signature sauces and perfectly grilled meats.
Its ability to elevate simple Filipino street food into a sought-after dining experience makes it a potential Bib Gourmand recipient.
- Exact Location: 268 Don Mariano Cui St, Cebu City
CnT Lechon
No Cebu food list is complete without lechon, and CnT Lechon remains a top contender for serving some of the city’s best-roasted pork.
With its crispy skin and flavorful meat, it could land a spot in the MICHELIN Guide as a celebrated local delicacy.
- Exact Location: Jose L. Briones St. cor. Juan Luna Ave Ext., Cebu City
Kuya Jeff’s Siomayan (D’ Original Siomai Sa Tisa)
A street food institution, Kuya Jeff’s Siomayan in Tisa has been serving the best siomai in Cebu for decades.
Its dedication to authenticity and flavor could see it earning a Bib Gourmand or MICHELIN Plate.
- Exact Location: F. Llamas St. (across Mang Tinapay), Tisa, Cebu City
Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant
Set against a picturesque backdrop, Lantaw Floating Native Restaurant offers traditional Filipino cuisine with fresh seafood.
The combination of ambiance, authenticity, and well-executed dishes makes it a strong MICHELIN Plate contender.
- Exact Location: Day-as, Cordova, Cebu
Cafe Laguna
For classic Filipino cuisine done right, Cafe Laguna has been a trusted name for decades.
Its dedication to preserving and perfecting traditional Filipino dishes makes it worthy of MICHELIN recognition.
- Exact Location: Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City
Hachimitsu
A unique fusion restaurant that marries Japanese culinary artistry with Cebuano flavors, Hachimitsu offers an inventive menu featuring sushi, ramen, and locally inspired fusion dishes crafted with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Its modern yet cozy ambiance and meticulous presentation make it a promising contender for MICHELIN recognition.
- Exact Location: A. Villalon Dr, Capitol, Cebu City
The Future of Cebu’s Culinary Scene
The MICHELIN Guide’s arrival in the Philippines is a game-changer, especially for Cebu. As more chefs push culinary boundaries and refine their craft, Cebu is set to become an even more dynamic and globally recognized food destination.
With 2026 just around the corner, the city’s top restaurants are gearing up for the most prestigious culinary recognition yet.
Who do you think will earn the first MICHELIN star in Cebu? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
