Mary Grace Dimacali

Mary Grace Dimacali has built one of the Philippines’ most recognisable food institutions, transforming a modest home-baking venture she began in 1983 into a nationwide brand synonymous with comfort and Filipino hospitality. What started as fruitcakes and birthday cakes made for her five young children evolved into the signature ensaymadas and cheese rolls that would define Café Mary Grace, now with more than 140 cafés and kiosks across the country, and its first international opening planned for Singapore in 2026.

Dimacali formalised her craft through baking studies in Los Angeles and steadily expanded her business through local bazaars, where early success was fuelled by her handmade recipes and a growing base of loyal customers. In 2002 she opened her first kiosks, followed by the flagship Serendra café in 2006, setting the tone for the warm, home-inspired aesthetic that remains the brand’s hallmark.

Her leadership is anchored in the values of religious faith, family and community. All five of her children now play roles in the organisation, from brand management to business development and finance, reinforcing the company’s identity as a multigenerational enterprise. Dimacali is also known for her people-centred approach, creating scholarships and livelihood programmes that support employees and their families.

As the brand continues to expand, Dimacali’s influence rests not only on the scale of her enterprise but on the emotional familiarity it evokes. Her cafés offer a sense of home that has become part of contemporary Filipino culture, shaping how the nation gathers, celebrates and shares its stories over food.