Celebrity chef Margarita Fores ‘found dead in hotel room’ aged 65

Celebrity chef Margarita Fores has died (Picture: margaritafores/Instagram)

Celebrity chef Margarita Fores has died aged 65.

The renowned Filipino chef, who was named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016, was a two-time cancer survivor, and beat thyroid cancer in 2006.

Her son Amado, who was also Fores’ restaurant partner, shared the news on Instagram, writing: ‘Dear Friends and Family, It is with a heavy heart that I share the sudden passing of my Mom, Margarita A. Forés.

‘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.’

According to the Manila Standard, she was found ‘unresponsive’ in her hotel room after missing a lunch meeting.

A cause of death has not been confirmed.

Recent posts on Fores’ Instagram showed her with Gordon Ramsay and her Tatler Asia front cover with Amado.

14385985 Celebrity chef Margarita Fores is found dead in hotel room Margarita Fores — Fores was named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016 (Picture: margaritafores/Instagram)

14385985 Celebrity chef Margarita Fores is found dead in hotel room The dining scene in Manila is a vibrant tapestry of flavours and innovation, brought to life by the genius of talented culinary artisans. This month, we immerse ourselves in the pulse of this dynamic industry, celebrating the visionaries who continually captivate our palates and elevate the dining experience in the Philippines. The remarkable mother-and-son duo @margaritafores and @amadofores are at the forefront of this gastronomic revolution. They have masterfully introduced the richness of authentic Italian cuisine to Filipino diners, infusing each dish with their unique flair and creativity. Their inspiring journey began with Margarita?s @ciboph restaurant and has blossomed into other culinary ventures. With Amado, his successful @amano.ph, @ramenron.ph, @steakandfrice and @afhospitality.ph are huge successes. They graciously share their experiences and insights on how they are shaping the future of Philippine dining. Be sure to check out the seven emerging culinary stars, as well as the husband-and-wife duo @brucericketts and @jaepickrell, who create exquisite dining experiences that engage all the senses. Additionally, international furniture designer @kennethcobonpue presents his whimsical restaurant, @fablecafelounge. There?s also an exclusive feature on the chef/owner of the iconic restaurant, Carbone. Explore these captivating features that will spark your culinary adventures and immerse you in the vibrant local food scene. All these and more on Tatler?s February 2025 issue. Available on Shopee, Lazada, Zinio, Magzter, and Pressreader, or at newsstands today! — She was recently pictured with Gordon Ramsay (Picture: amadofores/Instagram)

Fores developed a love for Italian food while working in New York, and went on to train in Italy before opening her first restaurant, Cibo, in 1997.

It now has more than 20 different branches across the Philippines.

In a recent interview with Tatler Asia, Fores spoke of planning to ‘wind down’ and retire as she turned 65.

She said: ‘At 65, I have realized I have worked so hard already. So, what I really want to do is wind down a little bit.’

‘Amado feels that catering saps so much of my energy. He feels that I don’t need that kind of headache anymore,’ she added, before sharing her wish to travel more as she stepped back from the culinary business.

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