The Next Generation Takes Over Antonio's, While Tony Boy Keeps Watch

Antonio's Group of Restaurants has confirmed a leadership transition with chef-patron Tony Boy Escalante ceding day-to-day control of his Tagaytay restaurants to a three-person team made up of his son and two lieutenants.

In practice, Escalante will keep final say on the culinary and business direction of the group he spent nearly a quarter-century building. This is all without the part where he has to be ultra-hands-on with everyday endeavors.

His son Basti Escalante will be in charge of business development across Metro Manila, which he was already doing informally as managing partner of the group's city concepts. The younger Escalante is also tasked with scouting expansion opportunities for the brand.

Executive Chef AC Agra will be at the helm of culinary operations driven by his extensive résumé built up in Australia's fine-dining circuit. The trio is rounded out with Patricia Benedicto as director of brand and food and beverage. She will be overseeing concept development and F&B strategy across the portfolio.

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Basti Escalante

AC Agra

Patricia Benedicto

The elder Escalante characterized the move as one of continuity instead of retreating from a responsibility.

"This isn't about stepping away from what I love," he said in a statement. "It's about creating the space for the next generation to lead while I focus on the bigger picture."

His successor vowed to deter any potential drop-offs in the brand's core proposition even as the power structure shifts.

"Our promise of thoughtful hospitality, exceptional food, and genuine service hasn't changed," he said, adding that the goal is to honor his father's legacy while preparing the group for its next phase.

The Antonio's Group was founded in 2002 from a single Tagaytay restaurant into a stable that consists of Breakfast at Antonio's, Balay Dako, Azela, and Pedro the Grocer, with the flagship holding a Michelin Guide listing.

The Antonio's Trio

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