Jordy Navarra, the chef-owner behind modern Filipino restaurant Toyo Eatery and bakery Panaderya Toyo, exemplifies the essence of cooking what you love with local ingredients. Beginning his culinary journey later than most, Navarra trained in esteemed kitchens including Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck and Alvin Leung’s Bo Innovation. Yet, his heart yearned for the comforts of Filipino rice meals, pulling him home. Since 2016, his restaurant has continued to win awards, showcasing a unique flair for presentation and profound respect for his native culinary traditions. It is through this genuine storytelling that Navarra redefines Filipino dining, paying homage to its history while carving a path for its future.