A renowned Filipino chef and restaurateur died after being found unresponsive in her Hong Kong hotel room, her family confirmed in an Instagram post on Tuesday. She was 65.
Trailblazing celebrity chef Margarita Forés, famous for championing her native cuisine and bringing authentic Italian fare to the Philippines, was found unresponsive in her room after missing a lunch meeting, according to Manila Standard.
Her cause of death remains unknown.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the sudden passing of my Mom, Margarita A. Forés,” her son Amando Forés wrote in his Instagram post.
“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.”
The acclaimed chef, whose career in the food industry spans more than three decades, first developed a passion for Italian cooking while living in New York before making her way to Italy, where she immersed herself in the craft and culture, the outlet reported.
Forés used her passion to launch Cibo, a popular Italian chain offering affordable comfort food at more than 20 locations across the Philippines, in 1997.
The restaurant’s success allowed Forés to open other dining spots, including Lusso, Grace Park and Loggia — eateries that either blended Filipino and Italian influence or elevated farm-to-table dining — in addition to a catering business, a floral shop and a culinary school.
Forés was named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016 for her innovative craft and last week graced the cover of Tatler Asia with her son, who were hailed as “talented culinary artisans.”
“At 65, I have realized I have worked so hard already,” Fores, a two-time cancer survivor who beat thyroid cancer in 2006, told the high-society magazine.
“So, what I really want to do is wind down a bit.”
Fan support for Forés and her family poured on social media, with many sharing their great respect and admiration for the culinary innovator, who last month was spotted giving Gordon Ramsay a tour of her Farmers Market in Araneta City.
“We honor the life and legacy of our founder and guiding light, Chef Margarita Forés,” Cibo posted on Facebook.
“Her warmth, creativity, and unwavering spirit will continue to inspire us all. Thank you for sharing your heart with us, Chef Margarita. You will always be CIBO.”
