Renowned Filipino chef Margarita Fores, Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016, has passed away at the age of 65.
She was found unresponsive in her hotel room in Hong Kong after failing to attend a scheduled lunch meeting.
Authorities have yet to reveal the cause of her death.
Fores was a pioneer in the culinary industry, gaining global recognition for championing and popularizing Filipino cuisine.
She owned several well-known restaurants, including Cibo, Lusso, Grace Park, and Alta.
She was also an advocate for using organic ingredients and was celebrated for her expertise in Italian and Filipino cuisine, earning her acclaim in international culinary circles.
In 1986, Fores studied culinary arts in Italy, training under three distinguished chefs to master traditional Italian cooking techniques.
She started as a caterer before establishing Cibo in 1997, offering high-quality Italian dishes at affordable prices.
Her restaurant, Grace Park, ranked 12th in the Opinionated About Dining’s Top Casual Restaurants in Asia in 2024.
She also collaborated with Japanese Chef Hiroyuki Tamura to create “Batchoy Ramen,” a fusion dish combining Ilonggo flavors with Japanese techniques.
Beyond her businesses, Fores showcased her talents on international television shows.
She was a two-time cancer survivor, having overcome thyroid cancer in 2006, serving as an inspiration to many.