Celebrity Chef and Two-Time Cancer Survivor, Margarita Forés, Passes Away at 65
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Renowned Filipino chef Margarita Forés has tragically passed away at the age of 65. The news of her passing was confirmed after she was found unresponsive in a hotel room in Hong Kong, having missed a scheduled lunch meeting. She leaves behind her grieving son and business partner, Amado. The exact cause of her death has not been made public.
Amado took to Instagram to announce the heartbreaking news, expressing their family’s profound loss and requesting prayers from friends and well-wishers during this difficult time. Margarita Forés was a culinary icon who made significant contributions to the food industry, both in the Philippines and internationally.
Born in the Philippines, Margarita Forés later moved to New York City with her family during her teenage years. Combining her education in both the U.S. and the Philippines with a deep love for Italian cuisine and travel, she went on to establish Cibo, an Italian restaurant in the Philippines in 1997. Over the years, Cibo expanded into a successful chain with 30 locations across the country, alongside her other ventures, Lusso and Grace Park.
Not limited to restaurants, Margarita Forés also ventured into catering with her business, Margarita Signature Caterer, and explored the world of floristry with Margarita Floralscapes. Her commitment to culinary arts extended beyond the kitchen as she founded the Asian Campus at Casa Artusi, a culinary school in northeast Italy, showcasing her passion for sharing her skills and knowledge with future generations.
Margarita Forés was a trailblazer in the industry and received numerous accolades throughout her career, including being named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016. She appeared on various television shows, such as CNN’s Culinary Journeys, further solidifying her reputation as a respected figure in the culinary world.
A true survivor, Margarita Forés battled and conquered cancer twice, overcoming thyroid cancer in 2006. Her resilience and determination served as an inspiration to many, proving that she was not only a talented chef but also a fighter in the face of adversity.
Recently, Margarita Forés and Amado were featured on the cover of Tatler, where she shared her plans for the future, including her son’s upcoming wedding and a joint project focusing on combining Italian cuisine with Filipino ingredients. Her legacy will undoubtedly live on through the impact she has made on the culinary landscape and the lives she has touched along the way.
The unexpected passing of Margarita Forés has left a void in the culinary world, but her memory will continue to inspire aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts to pursue their passion with dedication and unwavering determination. May she rest in peace, leaving behind a profound legacy that will forever be cherished and celebrated.