In a bold move to align with mindful gastronomy and sustainability, The Manila Hotel—recognized as the Best Heritage Hotel by Tatler Philippines and as the Philippines’ Leading Hotel at the World Travel Awards—has unveiled a curated selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes. These dishes will soon be featured across its dining outlets and banquet offerings.
This initiative, announced by Marvin Kim Tan, Vice President for Sales and Marketing, addresses the growing global and local demand for such options while reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to wellness, innovation, and culinary excellence. Tailored for today’s discerning palates, these dishes provide nutritious, flavorful alternatives that support a sustainable lifestyle.
Remaining true to its legacy of evolving with the times while preserving Filipino culinary heritage, the Grand Dame of Manila continues to embrace dining trends that nourish both body and soul. More than just a culinary shift, this initiative highlights broader benefits: supporting cardiovascular health, minimizing environmental impact, and promoting holistic well-being. By showcasing locally sourced ingredients, the new offerings honor Filipino agriculture and reinforce the hotel’s sustainability ethos.
This forward-thinking initiative stems from a partnership with the hotel’s consultant chef, Riza Shanti Lim—an internationally certified holistic health practitioner, clinical nutritionist, and advocate for plant-based cuisine. Her expertise was instrumental in the conceptualization, development, and presentation of each dish.
Riza Shanti Lim brings a wealth of knowledge along with a deeply rooted philosophy of wellness and healing through food. She is a certified Clinical Master Herbalist, Holistic Health Practitioner, and Nutrition Consultant from the Natural Healing Institute of Naturopathy in San Diego, USA.
Additionally, she has completed training in Plant-Based Culinary Arts at Pataleban Vineyard Resort in Nepal and participated in a Mindfulness program with a Clinical Approach at Harvard Medical School. She is also certified as a Yoga and Meditation Teacher from Yoga Darshanam in Mysore, India, among other global wellness credentials.
To celebrate this milestone, The Manila Hotel hosted an exclusive press dinner at the Champagne Salon on May 7, 2025. The evening featured a carefully prepared multi-course preview of the vegetarian fine dining menu, executed by Chef Riza Shanti Lim, supervised by Executive Chef Konrad Walter, and assisted by The Manila Hotel’s culinary team.
Guests enjoyed vibrant and beautifully plated dishes, including Fresh Garden Spring Rolls in Peanut Cream Sauce, Papaya Moringa with Crisps Soup, Fern Salad with Paneer, Vegan Skewers, 8 Spice Curry, and Creamed Buko Pandan Plantain with Chia Seeds.
“At The Manila Hotel, we recognize the growing importance of conscious dining,” shares Konrad Walter, executive chef of The Manila Hotel. “Our enhanced vegan and vegetarian offerings are a reflection of our commitment to wellness, sustainability, and evolving with the modern palate, without compromising the richness, tradition, and flavor that define Filipino cuisine.”
The new vegan and vegetarian dishes will soon be available for private banquets, special events, a dedicated station at the buffet in the renowned Café Ilang-Ilang, and a la carte dining at the hotel’s iconic restaurants—Champagne Room, Red Jade, and Lobby Lounge—as well as through in-room dining and M Takeout.
For inquiries, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.
About The Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel is situated beside Kilometer Zero (0), which marks the starting point of Manila, and is within walking distance of several well-known landmarks, including Rizal Park, Intramuros, and the National Museums. Renowned for its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel has been the preferred choice for distinguished guests since 1912.
The hotel features over 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms, including three ballrooms. Guests can enjoy five-star relaxation and wellness experiences at the Manila Hotel Spa, as well as access to both adult and children’s pools and the Manila Hotel Health Club. Additionally, the hotel houses the Heritage Museum, which showcases a treasure trove of priceless artifacts that narrate its illustrious history. It also includes an Art Gallery, providing a glimpse into contemporary works from various artists.
Dining options at The Manila Hotel are diverse, with six unique outlets offering distinct culinary experiences. Café Ilang-Ilang is a popular spot known for its extensive selection of international buffet delights. The Champagne Room, celebrated for its Old European style fine dining, is considered the most romantic room in Manila, featuring European cuisine in an elegant setting. The Tap Room offers an Old English pub atmosphere where guests can enjoy live music in the evenings. The Lobby Lounge is perfect for casual dining, aperitifs, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisurely meetings. Red Jade is a fine dining restaurant specializing in authentic Chinese cuisine, and the Delicatessen presents the hotel’s signature pastries, breads, chocolates, and pralines.
