MANILA, Philippines — Philippine desserts had their time in the limelight after getting featured on the social media accounts of the Michelin Guide.
The guide was created in 1900 by the Michelin tire company to support the growth of automobile mobility and has since helped individuals highlight global culinary scenes.
Last April 1, and this is no joke, the Michelin Guide shared on Instagram that the Philippines was an ideal place for people with a sweet tooth.
"In the Philippines, dessert isn't just the final course; it’s a moment," the guide wrote in its caption. "'Himagas' (a palate cleanser) is all about washing away rich, savory flavors with something refreshing and sweet."
The guide noted that Filipino desserts or "panghimagas" are not just for after meals but can be enjoyed anytime, even as merienda or afternoon snacks.
It then featured Filipino desserts served in restaurants that had some degree of recognition from the Michelin Guide:
- Halo-halo from Sarsa and Palm Grill
- Leche Flan from Hapag
- Sorbetes from Offbeat
- Turon from Lasa
- (Savory) Ube from Kása Palma
All the restaurants featured are located in Makati except Palm Grill, which is in Quezon City and Lasa from Cebu.
At the inaugural Michelin Guide Philippines last year, Hapag and Kása Palma both received one Michelin star, alongside Asador Alfonso, Celera, Gallery by Chele, Inato, Linamnam and Toyo Eatery.
Another Makati-based restaurant Helm by Josh Boutwood was the sole establishment to receive two stars.
Sarsa, Palm Grill, and Lasa were all given Michelin Bib Gourmand distinctions — awarded to establishments that consistently offer high-quality food at value-for-money prices — while Offbeat is one of 74 Michelin-selected restaurants in the Philippines.