Margarita Araneta Forés, born on March 23, 1959, in the Philippines, was a celebrated chef and entrepreneur renowned for her significant contributions to the culinary world, particularly in Italian cuisine. Her journey from a young enthusiast to an internationally acclaimed chef is a testament to her passion, resilience, and dedication.
Early Life and Education
Margarita was born into a prominent family; her parents were Raul Forés and María Lourdes Araneta. She was the granddaughter of J. Amado Araneta, a notable tycoon who developed the Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City. Growing up in Manila, she attended Assumption College San Lorenzo. During her freshman year, her family relocated to New York City, where she continued her education at the Marymount School on the Upper East Side. She later pursued studies at Mount Holyoke College. After two years, she returned to the Philippines and completed her degree in accountancy at Assumption College in 1981. Her time in New York exposed her to diverse culinary experiences, sparking her interest in Italian cuisine.
Culinary Journey
In 1986, Margarita embarked on a transformative journey to Italy, immersing herself in its rich culinary traditions. She trained under esteemed chefs Masha Innoscenti in Florence, Jo Bettoja in Rome, and Ada Parasiliti in Milan. This hands-on experience deepened her passion for Italian cooking and culture. Upon returning to the Philippines, she founded Cibo Di M, a catering company that introduced authentic Italian flavors to the local palate. In 1997, she launched the first Cibo restaurant, aiming to offer traditional Italian dishes at accessible prices. The success of Cibo led to the establishment of other notable ventures, including Lusso, Grace Park, and Alta, each offering unique culinary experiences.
Personal Life and Family
Margarita was a two-time cancer survivor, having overcome thyroid cancer around 2006. She was a mother to her son, Jorge Amado, who was a significant source of inspiration in her life. Her personal experiences, including her health battles, influenced her advocacy for organic and sustainable ingredients in her culinary practices.
Awards and Recognitions
Throughout her illustrious career, Margarita received numerous accolades:
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Asia’s Best Female Chef 2016: Awarded by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the culinary scene.
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Cavaliere dell’Ordine della Stella d’Italia (Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy) 2018: Conferred by the Italian government for her efforts in promoting Italian cuisine and culture.
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United Nations Ambassador for Gastronomy Tourism 2019: Appointed by the UNWTO for championing sustainable agriculture and food tourism.
Legacy
Margarita Forés’ journey from a passionate culinary enthusiast to an internationally acclaimed chef and entrepreneur serves as an inspiration to many. Her dedication to authentic flavors, sustainable practices, and culinary excellence has left an indelible mark on the world of gastronomy. Her legacy continues to inspire chefs and food enthusiasts globally.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Margarita Araneta Forés |
| Date of Birth | March 23, 1959 |
| Date of Death | February 11, 2025 |
| Parents | Raul Forés (Father), María Lourdes Araneta (Mother) |
| Height | Information not publicly available |
| Net Worth (2025) | Specific figures not publicly disclosed; recognized as a successful entrepreneur and chef |
Career of Margarita Forés
Margarita Forés’ career was a remarkable journey that established her as one of the most influential chefs in the Philippines and beyond. Her expertise in Italian cuisine, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to promoting Filipino food on the global stage made her a household name. Below is a detailed look at her culinary career, from her early beginnings to her international recognition.
Introduction to Culinary Arts
Unlike many chefs who undergo formal training in culinary schools, Forés took a different path. Her passion for cooking developed when she lived in New York, where she was exposed to diverse cuisines, particularly Italian food. This experience ignited her love for Italian flavors and cooking techniques.
In 1986, Forés decided to immerse herself fully in Italian culinary traditions. She traveled to Italy for an intensive four-month training under three esteemed chefs—Masha Innoscenti in Florence, Jo Bettoja in Rome, and Ada Parasiliti in Milan. During this time, she learned traditional Italian cooking methods, ingredient selection, and the importance of authenticity in cuisine. This training laid the foundation for her future culinary career.
Catering Business and Rise to Prominence
After returning to the Philippines, Forés began her career in the food industry by establishing Cibo Di M, a catering business focused on Italian cuisine. She started small, preparing authentic Italian dishes for private clients, and quickly gained a reputation for her dedication to quality and flavor.
Her catering business flourished, attracting high-profile clients, including business executives, celebrities, and diplomats. The demand for her food encouraged her to expand her culinary ventures, leading to the launch of her first restaurant.
Establishing the Cibo Brand
In 1997, Forés opened the first Cibo restaurant in the Philippines. Her vision was to make authentic Italian cuisine more accessible to Filipinos by offering high-quality dishes at affordable prices. Cibo became an instant success due to its focus on fresh ingredients, modern presentation, and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
Over the years, Cibo expanded into a successful restaurant chain with multiple branches across the Philippines. The restaurant’s menu featured Italian staples such as pasta, pizza, risotto, and panini, all crafted with the same authenticity she learned in Italy.
Expansion into Luxury Dining
Beyond Cibo, Forés expanded her restaurant portfolio with upscale dining establishments:
- Lusso – A high-end restaurant offering luxurious European-inspired dishes, including foie gras burgers and truffle-infused meals.
- Grace Park – A farm-to-table restaurant that focused on sustainable and organic ingredients, showcasing her commitment to responsible dining.
- Alta – A stylish restaurant located at Ascott BGC, known for its fusion of international flavors with local ingredients.
These ventures highlighted her versatility and ability to cater to different market segments, from casual dining to fine dining experiences.
Promoting Filipino Cuisine Internationally
While Forés built her career around Italian cuisine, she was also deeply passionate about Filipino food. She became an advocate for promoting Philippine cuisine on the international stage. She worked with various organizations to introduce Filipino flavors to global audiences.
One of her significant achievements was participating in international food festivals and culinary events where she showcased Filipino ingredients, cooking techniques, and traditional recipes. She helped bridge the gap between Filipino and Italian cuisines, creating innovative fusion dishes that celebrated both cultures.
Awards and Recognitions
Margarita Forés’ dedication to culinary excellence earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout her career:
- Asia’s Best Female Chef (2016) – She was recognized by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, a prestigious award that celebrated her contributions to the industry.
- Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy (2018) – The Italian government honored her for her efforts in promoting Italian culture and cuisine in the Philippines.
- United Nations Ambassador for Gastronomy Tourism (2019) – She was appointed by the UN World Tourism Organization for her advocacy in sustainable food tourism.
These awards solidified her reputation as a culinary icon, not just in the Philippines but globally.
Culinary Education and Mentorship
Beyond running restaurants, Forés was passionate about mentoring young chefs and culinary students. She frequently conducted workshops, cooking demonstrations, and training sessions for aspiring chefs.
She also collaborated with institutions and culinary schools to develop programs that emphasized sustainability, organic farming, and the importance of using local ingredients. Her influence helped shape a new generation of Filipino chefs who embraced both international techniques and traditional Filipino cooking.
Final Years and Legacy
Until her passing in 2025, Forés remained actively involved in the culinary scene. She continued to innovate, expand her restaurant empire, and advocate for Filipino cuisine.
Her legacy lives on through her restaurants, her impact on the food industry, and the many chefs she mentored. Margarita Forés will always be remembered as a trailblazer who elevated both Italian and Filipino cuisine, leaving an indelible mark on the global culinary landscape.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Account | Link |
|---|---|---|
| @margaritafores | Instagram Profile | |
| @margaritafores | Twitter Profile | |
| Margarita Forés | Facebook Profile |
Note: The above social media accounts are illustrative. For accurate and updated information, please refer to official sources.
Latest News
As of February 11, 2025, the culinary world mourns the passing of Margarita Forés. Her death marks the end of an era in Filipino gastronomy, but her legacy continues to inspire chefs and food enthusiasts globally. Tributes have poured in from around the world, celebrating her contributions to the culinary arts and her role in elevating Filipino cuisine on the international stage.
Physical Appearance
Margarita Forés was known for her graceful and elegant demeanor. While specific details about her height and other physical attributes are not publicly documented, she carried herself with a presence that resonated confidence and warmth, both in and out of the kitchen.
Net Worth as of 2025
Specific details regarding Margarita Forés’ net worth as of 2025 are not publicly disclosed. However, her successful ventures, including the Cibo restaurant chain and other establishments, along with her numerous accolades, underscore her significant impact and success in the culinary industry.
Margarita Forés’ journey from a passionate culinary enthusiast to an internationally acclaimed chef and entrepreneur serves as an inspiration to many. Her dedication to authentic flavors, sustainable practices, and culinary excellence has left an indelible mark on the world of gastronomy.
Five FAQs About Margarita Forés
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Who was Margarita Forés?
Margarita Forés was a renowned Filipino chef, restaurateur, and entrepreneur known for her expertise in Italian cuisine and her efforts in promoting Filipino food on the global stage. -
What is Margarita Forés famous for?
She was famous for founding Cibo, a successful Italian restaurant chain in the Philippines, and for being awarded Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016. -
Did Margarita Forés have formal culinary training?
No, she did not attend a formal culinary school. Instead, she trained under three Italian chefs in Florence, Rome, and Milan, where she learned traditional Italian cooking techniques. -
What awards did Margarita Forés receive?
Some of her notable awards include Asia’s Best Female Chef (2016), Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy (2018), and United Nations Ambassador for Gastronomy Tourism (2019). -
What is Margarita Forés’ legacy in the culinary world?
Her legacy includes revolutionizing Italian cuisine in the Philippines, advocating for Filipino food internationally, and mentoring young chefs to embrace sustainable and high-quality culinary practices.
For more insights into influential personalities in various industries, check out our detailed biography of Gavin Isaacs, a key figure in the gaming and betting sector. Additionally, if you’re interested in exploring the journey of public figures beyond the culinary world, read about Matt James, a well-known television personality and entrepreneur
