Evian at 200: Chele González Named Evian Brand Ambassador in the Philippines

Natural mineral water is often the quietest element on a restaurant table. Yet in fine dining, what is poured into the glass is considered with the same care as what arrives on the plate. That philosophy underpins Evian’s appointment of Chele González as its new Brand Ambassador in the Philippines, coinciding with the French mineral water’s 200th anniversary.

Throughout 2026, Evian is marking two centuries since it first began bottling its natural mineral water in Évian-les-Bains, France, through a series of culinary collaborations and hospitality events across Asia-Pacific. Earlier this year, González travelled to the source in the French Alps, where he joined chefs from around the world to learn more about the protected spring and the fifteen-year natural filtration process that gives Evian its distinctive mineral balance.

For González, the visit changed the way he viewed a product that has long been present in professional kitchens.

“Every time I drink Evian now, it tastes even better,” he says. “It made me appreciate the nature and purity of Evian, and why it is a special mineral water.”

That appreciation extends into his own restaurants. At the starred Gallery by Chele, Robb Report Philippines’ Best of the Best in Dining, and starred Asador Alfonso, water is considered part of the overall dining experience rather than an afterthought.

“What we are looking for is a water that gives more life to the food,” González explains. “Having Evian at the table makes me more comfortable because I know it is the right water for my dishes.”

As one of the Philippines’ most influential chefs, González has built his reputation on combining European technique with a deep understanding of local ingredients and producers. Through Gallery by Chele, Asador Alfonso, and collaborations with leading hotels including The Westin Manila, Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan, and Anya Resort Tagaytay, he has helped shape the country’s contemporary dining landscape.

His appointment reflects Evian’s longstanding relationship with fine dining, where the smallest details often contribute to the overall experience. Throughout the year, González will participate in a series of culinary events and industry gatherings, including the Evian Chefs Lunch at Asador Alfonso, as part of the brand’s bicentenary programme.