The chef, who brought Filipino cuisine to the global stage, was named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016.
Chef Margarita Fores died on February 11, 2025, in Hong Kong at the of 65. She was a two-time cancer survivor and overcame thyroid cancer in 2006. However, the cause of her death has yet to be revealed.
Authorities shared that Fores was found unresponsive in her hotel room after missing a scheduled lunch meeting. His son, Amado Fores, shared the news of her demise on Instagram, writing, “It is with a heavy heart that I share the sudden passing of my Mom, Margarita A. Forés.”
He added, “Our family is mourning this unexpected loss, and we kindly ask for your prayers during this time. We will be able to share more in due time.”
Fores was known for her advocacy of organic ingredients and her dedication to both high-quality Italian and Filipino cuisine. She owned several acclaimed restaurants, including Cibo, Lusso, Grace Park, and Alta.
Her passion and expertise earned her widespread recognition in culinary circles worldwide. Fores, who was born in 1959 into the esteemed Araneta family, developed a deep passion for Italian cuisine during her time in New York.
However, she learned about traditional Asian cooking from three chefs in Italy in 1986. Fores then launched her career as a caterer serving Italian dishes at accessible prices in Cibo in 1997. Over the years, her dedication propelled her to the top of the culinary world.
Her restaurant Grace Park earned recognition in 2024, ranking 12th on Opinionated About Dining’s Top Casual Restaurants in Asia. Fores also collaborated with renowned Japanese chef Hiroyuki Tamura on a unique fusion dish, “Batchoy Ramen,” which combined Ilonggo flavors with Japanese culinary techniques.
In addition to her restaurant ventures, Fores made several appearances on international television programs, including “Inspired with Anna Olson” and CNN’s “Culinary Journeys,” where she shared her passion for food with a global audience.
Fores also had the opportunity to meet world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay at a farmers’ market in Araneta City last month. She gushed about the moment on Instagram, noting that Ramsay, along with his chef, were particularly intrigued by the fresh local produce in the Philippines.
Margarita Fores with Gordon Ramsay and their team, from a post dated January 22, 2025 | Source: Instagram/margaritafores
Fores’ post concluded with a heartfelt message of gratitude to Ramsay, thanking him for his visit and for appreciating the beauty of Filipino cuisine.
