Chef Josh Boutwood shares Helm staff's emotional reaction as restaurant earns two Michelin Stars
Chef Josh Boutwood shared the emotional reaction of his staff at Helm as they tuned into the Michelin Guide ceremony last week, where Helm emerged as the lone Philippine restaurant to be awarded two Michelin Stars.
On Instagram, Boutwood uploaded a series of clips showing Helm's front and back of house staff emotionally celebrating at the restaurant as Helm is announced during the ceremony.
The Helm team can be seen erupting in cheers and gathering in a group hug as they cried tears of joy.
In his heartfelt post, Boutwood paid tribute to the "extraordinary people" who make up the Helm team.
"Their unwavering dedication, creativity, and pursuit of excellence have shaped every dish, every service, and every quiet moment of hard work that brought us here," he wrote.
"To witness their passion come to life and be recognized at this level fills my heart with overwhelming joy."
He also thanked his family for their "endless love, patience, and belief" in him.
"You are my anchor through the long nights, the pressure, and the constant chase for perfection. Your support gives meaning to all of this, it reminds me why I do what I do."
At the end of his post, he congratulated his fellow chefs who earned recognition from the Michelin Guide this year.
"It’s an honor to share this journey with such inspiring people. May we all continue to cook with heart, with purpose, and with a deep respect for the craft that connects us," he said.
Helm earned the highest distinction in the ceremony with two Michelin Stars, while eight other Philippine restaurants were awarded one Michelin Star each.
The inaugural Michelin Guide for the Philippines recognized a total of 108 establishments, including 74 Michelin Selected restaurants and 25 Bib Gourmand awardees.
According to the Michelin Guide, the Bib Gourmand is awarded to restaurants that offer “a three-course meal at a reasonable price.”
Meanwhile, the Michelin Selected restaurants are establishments that have been officially recognized and recommended by the Michelin Guide, but have not received a star or Bib Gourmand distinction just yet.
—CDC, GMA Integrated News