Celebrity chef Margarita Fores died this week at age 65.
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Fores’ son an restaurant partner, Amado Fores, confirmed the news of her death in an Instagram post on Tuesday.
“Dear Friends and Family, It is with a heavy heart that I share the sudden passing of my Mom, Margarita A. Forés,” Amado wrote. “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. With gratitude, Amado.”
Fores was reportedly found “unresponsive” in her hotel room after missing a lunch meeting this week, according to the Manila Standard.
The renowned Filipino chef, named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016, was a two-time cancer survivor, having beat thyroid cancer in 2006, Metro UK reported.
Fores’ social media accounts paid tribute to her love of food and unique culinary creations. Her son’s Instagram Stories also featured an outpouring of love from fans and fellow chefs who mourned the news of her death.
Margarita Fores Was a Celebrated Filipino Chef Who Cooked for Everyone From Gordon Ramsay to Ed Sheeran
Recent posts from the late celebrated chef featured an encounter with Gordon Ramsay — whom she welcomed to a farmers’ market in the Philippines — and a dining experience with Massimo Bottura.
“We enjoyed OSTERIA FRANCESCANA’s iconic dishes in the mind-blowing music room that houses his vinyl collection, and we were allowed to play any records we chose from there!” Fores captioned a starstruck pic. “How cool is that?!”
She even recapped a year-ending trip to Japan in December 2024, sharing her excitement to dine with Rene Redzepi at Noma Kyoto.
“What a way to end 2024!” Fores wrote. “After missing the chance to do this 2 years ago, we finally made it and what a spectacular time with @reneredzepinoma at Noma Kyoto on its second to the last day!”
However, it’s more than clear that Fores was a culinary star in her own right.
Less than two weeks ago, Tatler Philippines hailed Margarita and Amado as a “remarkable mother-and-son duo” who were “at the forefront of this gastronomic revolution” in Manila.
“They have masterfully introduced the richness of authentic Italian cuisine to Filipino diners, infusing each dish with their unique flair and creativity,” the publication praised. “Their inspiring journey began with Margarita’s @ciboph restaurant and has blossomed into other culinary ventures… They graciously share their experiences and insights on how they are shaping the future of Philippine dining.”
Margarita Fores and Her Son, Amado, Were Celebrate Figures on the Filipino Restaurant Scene
In celebration of Fores’ life and legacy, Rolling Stone Philippines reshared a March 2023 with a heartfelt caption.
“With a career that spans nearly four decades, Forés was an indomitable figure in the Philippine culinary industry as the founder of renowned restaurants like Cibo, Grace Park, and Lusso,” they wrote. “She leaves behind a legacy of championing Filipino cuisine and what makes it beloved — a big heart that welcomes all to the table.”