Morena Spotlight: This Michelin-Starred Chef Is a Proud Morena
Quenee Vilar of Celera talks to Allure Philippines about growing up morena, and the heady feeling of receiving a Michelin star.
Morena Spotlight is a digital series from Allure Philippines that highlights the stories of morenas from all over the country and the Filipino diaspora. Know a morena who deserves the spotlight? Send us an email at [email protected].
Quenee Vilar, 33, is the sous-chef and owner of local restaurant, Celera, in Makati City, which recently received one Michelin star.
In her younger years, before she was toiling in the heat of a busy kitchen, Vilar was a swimmer, competing under the heat of sun. She spent most of her grade school years, swimming competitively, focused on doing her best in each competition, and pursuing the sport she loved.
Yet even for a confident, laser-focused student-athlete who had many things going on for her, there was still that pesky little voice in her head that reminded her not to get “too dark” while training under the sun. “ To be completely honest, I did feel pressure growing up,” Vilar shares candidly. “Playing sports for my school meant spending long hours under the sun, and there were times when I worried about getting ‘too dark.’ But I learned to focus on what truly mattered—my goals.”
For Vilar, someone who loves the outdoors and the beach, worrying about her morena skin tone was a distraction—especially since she had bigger goals to work towards as an athlete. Eventually, she would come to realize that her morena skin—and the beautiful golden color it turned after she spent time outside—was something to be celebrated. “Over time, I realized that taking care of my skin and keeping it healthy gave me the confidence I needed,” Vilar shares. “I believe my skin is part of who I am, and embracing it has helped me stay confident and true to myself. Being comfortable in my own skin is one of my strongest qualities.”
Today, Vilar is the sous-chef and owner of contemporary Asian restaurant Celera, which received its first Michelin star after only eight months of operations. The entire experience, Vilar says, still feels surreal. “Before it happened,” she shares, “we were just talking about how we never expected Michelin to come and discover us—and suddenly, we were celebrating our first star.”
Filipinos are used to being the underdog, the David to other Goliaths, the smaller person who has a lot to learn from bigger neighbors. But, as Vilar points out, we have, to put it simply, come a long way. “What surprised me most,” she says, “was realizing that the standards we once admired and idolized in Michelin-starred restaurants abroad are the same standards we now hold ourselves to. That realization was incredibly uplifting. I’m extremely proud of (executive chef and co-owner) Nicco (Santos), myself, and the entire team.”
Pride seems to be a recurring theme for Vilar—pride in herself and her own abilities, and pride that she can bring the country. Here, for Allure Philippines, Vilar tackles a different kind of pride—pride in her morena skin.
Courtesy of subject
What’s your skin-care routine as a morena?
I keep my skin care routine simple because I have sensitive skin. I start by washing my face with a gentle cleanser, since strong products can easily cause rashes for me. After cleansing, I apply a hydrating serum, and I always finish with sunscreen to protect my skin from the sun’s rays, especially because I enjoy spending time outdoors and walking under the sun.
Any preferred techniques, hacks, or products?
My biggest tip is to focus on keeping your skin healthy rather than chasing perfection. I’ve learned from watching and reading about Korean skin care that consistency is key. They’re very dedicated to their routines applying skin care both day and night without skipping. That discipline really makes a difference, and I believe consistency is the best “hack” for good skin.
How about your beauty or makeup routine? Are there particular shades or tricks you apply?
I prefer wearing light makeup, especially because I’m always in the kitchen and it naturally fades throughout the day. I focus more on skin prep than heavy makeup, and I always keep a hydrating and calming facial spray with me to refresh my skin when needed.
What do you love about being a morena?
I love being a morena because it immediately reflects my nationality and who I am. I really love my sun-kissed tan—it’s something I find beautiful. When the sunlight hits my skin, it gives me a golden glow, and I honestly love that. It feels natural, confident, and I believe it truly suits my personality.
Gabby Cantero
