Antonio “Tony Boy” Escalante, chef and founder of one of the Philippines’ enduring hospitality groups is stepping back from Antonio’s Group’s operations after nearly 25 years.The Tagaytay-based group of restaurants announced that Escalante has shifted to a strategic oversight role to focus on the “long-term business and culinary direction” of the restaurants.
Escalante makes it clear though that he is not stepping away. “It’s about creating the space for the next generation to lead while I focus on the bigger picture.”
“It’s about creating the space for the next generation to lead while I focus on the bigger picture”
Succeeding Escalante to lead the Antonio’s Group of Restaurant’s next growth chapter is a new leadership team that has long been integral to the brand’s success.
Tony Boy’s son Basti will continue to lead the brand’s business development initiatives in Metro Manila, Breakfast at Antonio’s, Azale, and Pedro the Grocer. He has been officially appointed director of business development to “identify new opportunities that support the brand’s long-term vision.”
“Our promise of thoughtful hospitality, exceptional food, and genuine service hasn’t changed,” says Basti. “As we take on greater responsibility for the restaurants my father built, our focus is on honoring that legacy while thoughtfully preparing Antonio’s Group for the future. We want every guest who walks through our doors to experience the same care and excellence that Antonio’s has always been known for, even as we continue to evolve for a new generation.”
Meanwhile, executive chef AC Agra carries the group’s culinary operations and vision forward, building on the momentum he created with the strong standards, innovation, and excellence they have fostered at Antonio’s.
“As we take on greater responsibility for the restaurants my father built, our focus is on honoring that legacy while thoughtfully preparing Antonio’s Group for the future,” says Basti Escalante
And finally, Patricia Benedicto as the director of brand and food and beverage, intends to solidify brand development, concept creation, and food-and-beverage initiatives across the group’s portfolio, helping ensure that all guests’ experiences reflect Antonio’s warmth, authenticity, and quality.
Escalante founded the Antonio’s Group of Restaurants in 2002 with the opening of Antonio’s in Tagaytay. During his tenure, Escalante has grown the brand into a portfolio of restaurants that include Breakfast at Antonio’s and Balay Dako as well as artisanal food concepts that reflect craftsmanship and quality over trends. In 2025, Antonio’s earned a Michelin Selected recognition.
