Chef Miguel “Miggy” Cabel Moreno is making history as the first Tausug chef to be recognized by the Michelin Guide. Moreno’s restaurants—Palm Grill in Quezon City and Cabel in Manila—both earned the prestigious Bib Gourmand distinction at the inaugural Michelin Guide: Manila and Environs & Cebu 2026.
“For me, receiving two Bib Gourmand awards is beyond what I expected,” Moreno shared. “It’s not just my story being told. It’s the story of those who came long before us. To be the first Tausug recognized this way means their hands, their time, and their faith are finally honored too,” he added.
Celebrating Mindanaoan Flavors
Palm Grill specializes in Southern Mindanaoan cuisine, offering signature dishes like Tiyula Itum, a rich black beef soup, and The Dulang, a seven-dish tasting platter. Meanwhile, Cabel focuses on Filipino heritage cuisine, serving classics such as Ukoy and Piyanggang Manok.
Moreno emphasized that the recognition belongs as much to Mindanao as it does to him. “I hope this moment encourages young cooks to look back before they look ahead, to remember that every dish we serve today carries the work of generations,” he said.
A Culinary Journey Rooted in Heritage
Born and raised in Jolo, Sulu, Moreno has been a restaurateur for more than eight years, dedicated to promoting Mindanaoan and Filipino culinary traditions. His work is gaining international attention; in January, Palm Grill received recognition from the Best Ever Food Review Show, marking the first Filipino restaurant featured on the YouTube channel with over 11 million subscribers.
Looking ahead, Moreno sees his Michelin recognition as a responsibility. “What we do now is only a continuation of what they started—a promise to keep our flavors, our stories, and our pride alive for the next ones who will cook after us,” he said.
The 2026 Michelin Guide recognized 108 establishments in the Philippines, including 25 Bib Gourmand winners. Chef Moreno’s achievement stands out not just for his culinary skill, but for shining a spotlight on Tausug and Mindanaoan pride.
