A couple of columns ago, I wrote about the success of Filipino cuisine on the global stage, as well as the advantages of the entry of diverse global cuisines in the Philippines, both of which have enriched our culture. Perhaps as a recognition of the world class quality of Filipino food, the prestigious Michelin Guide has finally decided to highlight Filipino restaurants in its much-awaited list. This prestigious recognition brings global attention to the rich flavors, diverse ingredients, and unique cooking traditions that define Filipino food.

Known for its rigorous standards and influential role in promoting culinary excellence, its introduction to the Philippines sends a powerful message to the world: Filipino cuisine is worthy of international acclaim and serious consideration alongside other renowned food cultures. This endorsement should encourage local chefs and restaurateurs to innovate and preserve traditional recipes with renewed pride and confidence.

We are extremely proud that Origine, the Spanish restaurant inside Brittany Hotel in BGC, was included in the Michelin Guide. It cited Filipino-born Spanish chef Alexandra Cacho for “imbuing her Spanish cuisine with heartfelt authenticity.” The Guide noted that “rather than localized adaptations, the menu reflects flavors from Spain's regions, for an overview of its culinary identity.”

Chef Cacho has crafted Origine’s menu as a celebration of classic Spanish fare that highlights favorites such as gambas al ajillo, cochinillo, paella marisco, and chuleton steak that respect the traditions of Spanish cuisine. These are all my favorites whenever I schedule lunch or dinner meetings there. I have been to various parts of Spain and eating at Origine feels like actually traveling there.

Origine is a reflection of our desire to provide world class dining experience at Brittany Hotels. Chef Cacho has trained our team of dedicated and talented chefs using her immense culinary background highlighted by a master’s degree in Spanish culinary cuisine and her extensive experience as the executive chef in well-known Spanish restaurants in Spain.

As someone who respects and honors traditions, I have always been a fan of the choice for the name of the restaurant—Origine. It reflects a nostalgic return to the origins, where the Spanish influence on Filipino culture is celebrated and reimagined. I have always believed that our encounters with other cultures—Spanish, American, Japanese— through colonization had some positive side effects. The enrichment of our cuisine is one of those.

I would like to congratulate all the Philippines restaurants who received the prestigious Michelin stars and were included in the guide. I hope this recognition can continue to inspire chefs to push creative boundaries while honoring Filipino roots. This blend of tradition and innovation can lead to a distinctive culinary identity, appealing to both Filipino diners and global food enthusiasts.

I know that tourists come to the Philippines come for the beaches and our hospitality but leave our country amazed at the diversity and excellence of Filipino food. With the Michelin Guide highlighting Filipino cuisine, I expect a boom in culinary tourism. This will in turn stimulate the local economy by creating jobs, supporting suppliers of local ingredients, and fostering small businesses.

The Guide, interestingly, has included not only fine dining establishments but also carinderias and regional restaurants. Hopefully, this recognition can stimulate interest in lesser-known regional dishes, ingredients, and cooking methods, ensuring their preservation for future generations. By shining a light on the diversity within Filipino cuisine, I also hope that it can be a source of pride and unity for Filipinos.

We tend to criticize ourselves rather severely. Sociologist has branded this as our penchant for self-flagellation, focusing on all the negative things about us and saying, “Ah, only in the Philippines!” I hope this Michelin recognition will fuel a significant change in that attitude. This time, we can proudly say, “Delicious and diverse cuisine; ah, only in the Philippines!”