Margarita Fores, a renowned celebrity chef and restaurateur, has died at the age of 65, her son Amado confirmed on Tuesday, February 11. Fores was found unresponsive in her hotel room in Hong Kong, sparking shock and mourning across the culinary community.
"Dear Friends and Family, It is with a heavy heart... our family is mourning this unexpected loss," Amado wrote on Instagram, appealing for prayers during this painful time. The cause of her death has not been disclosed, but sources have described it as sudden and unexpected.
Fores was known for her mastery of Italian cuisine and her commitment to advocating for Filipino ingredients. She established herself as a prominent figure within the Philippine culinary scene after opening her first restaurant, Cibo, which debuted in 1997. Her innovative take on Italian fare led to the beloved restaurant chain's rapid growth, boasting over 20 locations nationwide and earning her accolades along the way.
Remembered as Asia's Best Female Chef by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, her legacy extends beyond her dining establishments. Fores's career spanned decades, beginning with her initial ventures as a caterer. She cultivated her skills through experiences abroad, particularly honing her craft during four transformative months in Italy, where she immersed herself under the tutelage of renowned chefs and internalized the art of traditional Italian cooking. Her philosophy was clear from the start: "I wanted it to offer value for money and I wanted the food to be really authentic—the way they do it in Italy," she told Esquire during her early years.
Born on March 23, 1959, Margarita came from esteemed lineage, being the granddaughter of tycoon J. Amado Araneta, who developed the Araneta Center, making her connections deep-rooted within the country's socio-political framework. Despite this aristocratic background, Fores followed her passion for cooking, which was cultivated early on. Her culinary pursuits stemmed from her family relocation to New York, where she found inspiration and her first taste of Italian culture, famously sharing, "They say when major changes happen... it's an opportunity for other members to also make changes." This reflection came after her grandfather's death pushed her toward her passion for cooking.
Fores's impact on the industry cannot be overstated. Aside from Cibo, she founded several other notable establishments, including Lusso, Grace Park, and Loggia. Her culinary vision consistently revolved around using local Filipino ingredients, which she firmly believed enriched every dish she crafted. Her commitment to elevatiing Filipino flavors earned her enduring respect and admiration within the culinary community.
Since Amado shared the news of her passing, tributes have flooded online. One comment read, "I am deeply sorry for your loss... Your mother’s warmth and the love she poured... will always be remembered with fondness and appreciation." Another expressed the loss felt, stating, "I am so sorry" which echoed sentiments shared by countless followers mourning her contribution to both cuisines.
Even just last week, Fores was featured alongside celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay on the cover of Tatler Asia, discussing her plans to “wind down” as she approached retirement. At 65, her intention was to step back yet remain engaged with the culinary world, expressing excitement to fulfill her dream of opening her own namesake restaurant dedicated to no-frills dining—Margarita.
Her passions laid the groundwork for future generations of chefs. Amado, her only child, is now carving his path within the culinary industry, inspired by his mother's indelible mark. Often seen working under her auspices, he reflected his desire to integrate her legacy with his own vision. "One of my biggest dreams was to translate my mom more... to slowly take over her restaurants but keeping her identity," he expressed, maintaining what she stood for throughout her career.
Though Fores has left the culinary scene, her influence resonates deeply among the chefs she has inspired and through every plate served at her establishments. Margarita Forés wasn't just about gastronomy; she believed food was at the heart of culture—a sentiment she lived every day through her dedication to her craft and ingredients.
Fores enjoyed one last exquisite meal of rich flavors the night before her passing at Prince and the Peacock, the creation of Michelin-starred chef Palash Mitra, encapsulating what she cherished most—food's power to bring people together. A true culinary legend, Margarita Forés may have turned off the kitchen lights, yet her spirit continues to simmer eternally.