Starting a plant-based life

It used to be difficult to be a non-meat eater, much more a vegetarian. You constantly search for places to eat when you’re out on the road and always realize that there are just a few of you. The Philippines is, after all, a nation of meat eaters, and pork is a staple.

But, now, this has changed. As more and more people embrace a healthier lifestyle, which includes healthier eating, the market is responding with restaurants serving lighter and healthier meals that veer away from red meat and instead lean towards white meat, fish, vegetables and meat substitutes. Even food delivery apps now offer plant-based food options.

One such establishment that has been drawing in the healthy eating crowd happens to be The Westin Manila, a wellness-forward hotel located right in the heart of the Ortigas Business District. It caters to modern travelers who specifically look for wellness facilities, services, and products that help them reconnect with themselves, reduce their stress, and find their balance amid their busy schedules, as well as locals who simply want to rest, unwind, and dine in an environment of urban wellness.

For the “Eat Well” part of its three-pillar philosophy, the Michelin Guide recognized five-star hotel has crafted a variety of food and beverage offerings that suit individual dietary needs and preferences. The culinary team’s curated selection of signature dishes includes plant-based dishes that do not compromise flavor, taste or satisfaction at Seasonal Tastes and Lobby Lounge.

Early favorites and must-tries are the hotel’s award-winning Plant-based Kare-Kare, Tofu Mushroom Sisig, Cauliflower Inasal on Adlai, and Truffle Mushroom Risotto. These are plant-based versions of local favorites and international fares that show how the culinary team would go to great lengths to satisfy not just the guests’ hunger but cravings as well.

The Plant-based Kare-Kare won top honors for The Westin Manila at the Marriott International’s first Sinagtala Culinary Arts Competition and has all the elements that make Kare-Kare a classic Filipino favorite, including the crispy “pork” slices and the bagoong.

The Tofu Mushroom Sisig is incredibly satisfying that you’d hardly look for pork at all. And the whole slab of cauliflower that has been marinated and cooked to serve as the “chicken inasal” served over adlai rice makes a diner happily full and satisfied after the meal.

The hotel also offers such unique and interesting bites as Sisig Doughnut Bites, Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap, and the new Croissaymada. The latter is a delectable cross between the classic French croissant and the Filipino ensaymada and is available in ube and almond flavors.

Even kids have their own Eat Well Menu for Kids to choose from as they take their pick for breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert, all flavorful and prepared in healthier ways using real ingredients.

There is so much more to discover.