Makati's Michelin moment

From two-star tasting menus to bib-worthy bites, this new food-crawl map highlights the city's Michelin-starred and Bib Gourmand spots

- FELICIANO RODRIGUEZ III Illustration by NANCY MARIE ANDAM

Makati has staked its claim as the culinary heart of the Philippines. In the inaugural 2026 Michelin Guide to the Philippines, the city boasts the sole two-Michelin-starred restaurant (Helm by Josh Boutwood) and five of the nation's eight one-star eateries. In all, 15 Makati addresses are "Michelin cited"-from Helm and stars like Celera, Hapag, Inatô, Kása Palma, and Toyo Eatery to nine Bib Gourmand picks. In fact, Makati alone now accounts for six of the country's nine Michelin-starred restaurants, plus nine budget-friendly Bib Gourmand gems (including Lampara, Halong, La Pita, and Taquería Franco) known for "exceptional food at moderate prices." It is a milestone that marks Makati as both a fine-dining destination and a haven for high-quality affordable food.