Margarita Araneta Forés, a distinguished Filipino chef and restaurateur, passed away on February 11, 2025, at the age of 65. She was renowned for her contributions to Italian cuisine in the Philippines and was honored as Asia’s Best Female Chef
Born on March 23, 1959, Forés hailed from a prominent family. She initially pursued a career in accountancy but shifted her focus to culinary arts after a transformative trip to Italy in 1986. There, she trained under esteemed chefs and immersed herself in Italian culinary traditions.
In 1997, Forés opened Cibo, a restaurant that introduced traditional Italian cuisine to Manila. She later expanded her culinary ventures to include Lusso, Grace Park, and Alta, each offering unique interpretations of Italian dishes.
Throughout her career, Forés was a strong advocate for local produce and the “farm-to-table” philosophy. She emphasized the importance of using organic ingredients and supported Filipino farmers.
Forés faced personal health challenges, having battled cancer twice, including thyroid cancer around 2006. Despite these obstacles, she remained a vibrant and influential figure in the culinary world.
Her passing has left a significant void in the culinary community, and she is remembered for her passion, innovation, and dedication to promoting Filipino cuisine on Margarita Araneta Forés, a distinguished Filipino chef and restaurateur, passed away on February 11, 2025, at the age of 65. She was renowned for her contributions to Italian cuisine in the Philippines and was honored as Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016.
Born on March 23, 1959, Forés hailed from a prominent family. She initially pursued a career in accountancy but shifted her focus to culinary arts after a transformative trip to Italy in 1986. There, she trained under esteemed chefs and immersed herself in Italian culinary traditions.
In 1997, Forés opened Cibo, a restaurant that introduced traditional Italian cuisine to Manila. She later expanded her culinary ventures to include Lusso, Grace Park, and Alta, each offering unique interpretations of Italian dishes.
Throughout her career, Forés was a strong advocate for local produce and the “farm-to-table” philosophy. She emphasized the importance of using organic ingredients and supported Filipino farmers.
Forés faced personal health challenges, having battled cancer twice, including thyroid cancer around 2006. Despite these obstacles, she remained a vibrant and influential figure in the culinary world.
Her passing has left a significant void in the culinary community, and she is remembered for her passion, innovation, and dedication to promoting Filipino cuisine on the global stage.
