Margarita Fores. Image: Instagram/@margaritafores
Margarita Forés, a renowned celebrity chef, restaurateur, and owner of several high-end restaurants, has died, her son Amado confirmed on Tuesday, February 11. She was 65 years old.
No cause of death was mentioned in Amado’s Instagram post, although he noted that the celebrity chef’s death was “sudden” and “unexpected.”
Sources said Fores died in Hong Kong.
“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. With gratitude, Amado,” he wrote.
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Fores’ death was mourned by Amado’s followers in the comments, including 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Best Supporting Actress Kakki Teodoro, Raymond Gutierrez, and Aika Robredo, daughter of former vice president Leni Robredo.
Screenshots from Amado Fores.
Fores was a member of the Araneta clan, being a granddaughter of the late tycoon J. Amado Araneta, who developed the then Araneta Center (now Araneta City) in Cubao, Quezon City, making her a cousin of politician Mar Roxas.
A known figure in Philippine culinary scene, Fores started her cooking career in 1986 where she traveled to Italy in hopes of learning the language and Italian cuisine for four months. She entered the industry as a caterer where she managed dinners and gatherings with a small team until she decided to open the Italian restaurant Cibo in 1997. It currently has 20 branches all over the Philippines.
The success of the Italian restaurant chain led to Fores launching other dining spots including Lusso, Grace Park, and Loggia, as well as opening a catering business and floral shop.
Cibo ranked 44th on the 50 Top Pizza’s 50 Top World Artisan Pizza Chains in November 2024. She was also named Asia’s Best Female Chef by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants in December 2016, among other notable milestones.