Geric Cruz
Geric Cruz
Makati-based Toyo Eatery earned the 42nd spot on the list while its neighbor Metiz placed 48th, and Johanne Siy received her award for Asia’s Best Female Chef.
Held at the Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore on the eve of March 28th, this year’s Asia’s 50 Best ceremony revealed the highly anticipated list of the continent’s best restaurants of 2023.
A development nestled in the heart of Makati, the Alley is home to both Toyo Eatery and Metiz who respectively placed 42nd and 48th on this year’s list. Both restaurants specialize in delivering high quality, Filipino-inspired culinary experiences, serving 8 meticulously prepared courses.
With limited reservation dates released a month ahead of time, Toyo Eatery is difficult to get a seat at, but worth the wait. Named after the Tagalog word for soy, Head Chef Jordy Navarra’s restaurant specializes in thoughtful and inventive takes on Filipino cuisine.
Their thoughtful approach is also reflected in their sustainable efforts, which were recognized at this year’s awards as they also took home The Flor de Caña Sustainable Restaurant Award. Ethical and environmental sustainability are implemented at every step, as 90% of Toyo’s ingredients are locally sourced, and they make it a priority to build strong relationships with the communities and suppliers they work with.
Just next door, Metiz was also recognized for its culinary excellence. Like Toyo Eatery, Metiz’s ingredients are locally sourced and the dishes place a special emphasis on incorporating fermented ingredients. Distinctly Filipino sour and bitter notes echo throughout their tasting menu as Head Chef Stephane Duhesme’s current course invites guests to try a deconstructed tofu Lumpia seasoned with fermented pineapple vinegar, and his Ensaymada is a sweet and salty creation complimented with kamote, gouda, camembert, and a fish sauce reduction.
Filipina chef Johanne Siy also formally received her award for Asia’s Best Female Chef at the ceremony. Currently based in Singapore as Lolla’s Head Chef, she describes her cuisine as “simpler” that relies on the quality and strength of her produce to speak for itself.
See the full list of winners here:
Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants of 2023
