The farm-to-table organic restaurant celebrates its 10th anniversary with its new branch, which also serves classic dishes.

MANILA, Philippines – Walking into The Wholesome Table’s newest branch at Shangri-La Plaza Mall in Mandaluyong City feels like walking into a modern farmhouse, a reflection of the restaurant’s organic, sustainable roots.

The farm-to-table home-cooked restaurant’s rustic yet elegant interiors make you feel right at home with earthy tones, cozy neutrals, wood accents, and soft lighting in a friendly setting. The wooden tree centerpiece anchors the space with its nature-inspired appeal.

The new branch follows the Bonifacio Global City and Salcedo Village locations; It’s located in the renovated Streetscape of Shangri-La Plaza’s Main Wing and offers clean, healthy fare that aligns with the philosophy of conscious eating and living. The meals here are hearty and filling (though quite pricey), but they don’t leave you feeling grossly full, heavy, or guilty.

From farm to table

Founder Bianca Araneta-Elizalde said a deep commitment to sustainability has been at the heart of The Wholesome Table since its inception 10 years ago. The restaurant ensures that every ingredient used is ethically and sustainably sourced, from organic produce grown by trusted local farmers to grass-fed beef and wild seafood.

“Our mission has always been to bring people together around good, honest food,” Elizalde said.

“There is a misconception that organic food is only vegetarian and secondly that it is bland,” he added. “I thought Filipinos would enjoy it because they can still eat many of the foods they are used to eating, like burgers, pork, and pizza, but with less guilt because they come from good sources and are made with better, healthier ingredients. ”

“We want to build a healthy food culture where people can start making informed decisions about what they eat and take responsibility for their health by educating them about natural, organic food, nutrition and the environment. “After all, it’s one of the few things in life (we) can control,” he added.

Wholesome Table’s menu is free of artificial additives, refined sugar and harmful preservatives, allowing its natural flavors to shine.

True enough, nothing at our table was “tasteless” or plain—the Healthy Table somehow balances filling with nutrition. New products and returning favorites have been added to the branch menu. Orzo SaladWe started our meal on a fresh and light note.

The vibrant mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and dried cranberries was brought together with a tangy red wine vinaigrette. The sweetness of the cranberries and the juicy acidity of the tomatoes complemented the bitterness of the arugula, while the feta added just the right amount of creaminess and saltiness.

After refreshing appetizers Truffle Burger It was an emphasis. It was a juicy, grass-fed beef patty nestled in a buttery brioche bun (which had soaked up all the meat juices), topped with dijonaise and a light truffle sauce. Nothing else and not much else was needed; simple ingredients can be successful in execution and flavor when sourced and prepared well.

Vegetarians can enjoy packaged food Buddha Bowl – a mix of vegan bagoong rice, roasted potatoes, chickpeas and stir-fried vegetables tossed in a spicy-tangy-sweet tamarind glaze (it was a little too spicy for me).

Paella Mariscos is perfect for sharing – a plate of moist, saffron-enriched rice is layered with wild-caught snapper and Chilean mussels, and spicy aioli adds a creamy touch that ties all the flavors together.

Sophisticated Stir-fried duck was my favorite; The rich, savory flavor of the duck breast, cooked until tender, contrasted well with the sweet-and-sour blackberry sauce and creamy pomme puree underneath.

There’s always room for dessert! Homemade Healthy Table Mango Sorbet It was a refreshingly fruity palate cleanser. Ube Ice Cream It was a fitting tribute to the local sweet potato.

The pandemic may have forced The Wholesome Table to close a few locations, but the brand has announced a season of restructuring, starting with its newest branch and revamped menu. – Rappler.com

Healthy Table is located on Streetscape Level 1, Main Wing of Shangri-La Plaza.