When we think of “organic” food, it often conjures up images of uninspired meals that feel more like sacrifices than indulgences. For many, the idea of ​​healthy eating is synonymous with deprivation. This misunderstanding, rooted in years of limited options and bland offerings, has cast a shadow over what healthy eating can actually be.

The Wholesome Table flips that script, transforming guilty pleasures into healthier treats without losing any charm. Think burgers, bowls and everything in between, but smarter, fresher and still completely satisfying. The mindful dining pioneer uses nutrient-rich ingredients and gives our comfort food cravings a delicious makeover.

“There is a misconception that organic foods are, first of all, only vegetarian and, secondly, that they are bland,” says founder Bianca Araneta-Elizalde, who started The Wholesome Table a decade ago with the idea to make healthy dishes more accessible and more enjoyable. “Filipinos can still enjoy the foods they are used to eating, like burgers, pork and pizza, but now they are less guilty because these meals are made with better and healthier ingredients.”

Each dish is a masterclass in balancing bold flavors with healthy goodness. The restaurant is not just about serving healthy plates, but about creating a space where wellness meets community, bringing like-minded people together and valuing good food, health and a sustainable future.

“Our mission is to unite people around good, honest food that supports a healthy lifestyle,” says Bianca. “We want to encourage our community to eat well, live well and adopt a conscious way of eating. »

Taking her vision to a wider audience, Bianca and her husband Juan Elizalde are expanding the brand into the heart of Ortigas with the opening of a third branch at the Shangri-La Plaza mall. In addition, a special holiday menu has been unveiled to kick off the holidays in style.

This latest menu features a mix of beloved classics and standout dishes, each deserving of its place in this special lineup.

Greens, feta cheese, and tender orzo pasta are tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette for orzo salad, a compelling choice even for those who aren’t typically drawn to vegetarian dishes. Sweet dried cranberries lend a sweetness that complements peppery arugula and refreshing mint, while cherry tomatoes add a touch of tartness.

The most dedicated carnivores will fall for the Truffle Burger with its juicy and meaty grass-fed beef patty, Dijon, sharp cheddar and luxurious truffle cream, all nestled in freshly baked buns. It’s a love story in every bite, even better when accompanied by truffle fries.

The Paella Mariscos steals the show. The seafood sensation is loaded with sustainably sourced mussels, snapper and shrimp, all nestled on a bed of fragrant Valencian-style rice and finished with a dollop of aioli. So good, it seems like a cheat.

A tempting selection of five main courses is available. The Buddha Bowl is a set of vegan bagoong rice, stir-fried vegetables, roasted potatoes and chickpeas, served with a potato curry sauce. The tamarind glaze introduces brightness, tying everything together.

One of the newest dishes is the Seared Duck, a free-range duck breast perched on cloud-shaped apple puree and drizzled with a tangy blackberry sauce.

The miso-glazed salmon is another must-try. The salmon fillet is marinated in a flavorful miso glaze, allowing the umami notes to permeate the fish. It is seared so that the delicate crust covers a tender, flaky interior. The subtle sweetness of the miso glaze balances the natural richness of the salmon.

There’s also a grilled pork chop covered in a balsamic glaze, served with roasted potatoes. Meanwhile, grass-fed beef is served with eggs, garlic brown rice, and roasted onion petals for Bistek Tagalog. It’s simple but delivers flavor, proving you don’t need fancy to be fantastic.

Dessert is homemade ice cream while drinks are iced tea, coffee or a smoothie.

With its expansion, the restaurant reaffirms its commitment to the farm-to-table philosophy. Ingredients are sourced from trusted local farms to ensure the food is pure, natural and free of artificial additives, refined sugars and harmful preservatives.

The interiors stay true to the modern farmhouse aesthetic the brand is known for. It is embellished with polished finishes and elements inspired by nature.

The new branch of The Wholesome Table finds its place on the ground floor of the renovated Shangri-La Plaza streetscape.