Chef Margarita "Gaita" Fores has passed away at 65, leaving behind a legacy of culinary excellence, generosity, and passion. On Tuesday, February 11, her son, Amado Fores, announced her passing through an Instagram post: "Dear Friends and Family, It is with a heavy heart that I share the sudden passing of my Mom, Margarita A. Fores. 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."
Even in her passing, her impact remains undeniable—both in the culinary world and beyond.
"You never have a meeting with Margarita without leaving with a bag full of snacks," Erwan Heussaff shared in his tribute to the late culinary legend. "Margarita is one of the few culinary icons that we had to look up to as we matured in the food industry," Erwan continued in his Instagram post.
"Not only did she create some of the most successful brands, but she was continuously curious about Filipino food and the ingredients that we have. It was like working with someone that you aspire to become," he added.
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ICYDK, Gaita is the mind behind successful restaurant brands such as Cibo—yes, everyone's go-to for (and maybe even intro to) Italian cuisine. She also opened Grace Park, Lusso, and Alta, making her one of the most respected chefs in the country.
But her impact extended far beyond the kitchen—she was globally recognized for her artistry, earning the title of Asia's Best Female Chef in 2016 under The World's 50 Best Restaurants.
Her resilience also inspired many, as she bravely battled and survived thyroid cancer in 2006.
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Filipino Celebrities Remember Chef Gaita
Gaita's passion for food and hospitality left a lasting imprint—not just on the industry but also on the hearts, minds, and tastebuds of many Filipinos.
Matteo Guidicelli shared fond memories of raising a glass of wine with Chef Gaita on his Instagram Story, as a way to remember her.
Similarly, Georgina Wilson and Isabelle Daza paid tribute to her, recognizing that her passing marked the loss of a true inspiration.
Bianca Gonzalez Intal also honored Gaita's legacy, emphasizing that her impact went beyond her culinary achievements.
"Yes, a true visionary, gamechanger and FORCE in the Philippine culinary scene, but most of all, the most genuinely sweet, supportive and vibrant human being who made everyone feel special and loved by JUST BEING HER," Bianca wrote on Instagram.
