A closer look shows that we all just want the same things
Urban Dictionary defines a social omnivore as “a person that generally conforms to the practice of vegetarianism, but will consume animal products in the company of meat eaters”. Writer Ali Francis’ Bon Appétit article on the subject is largely credited for coining the term, as well as differentiating it from flexitarian or reducetarian principles which she deemed “vague”. A social omnivore, apparently, has a clear-cut rule: “they don’t buy or cook meat at home”.
Back in the day, we would call this “watching what we eat”. However, in an age where everything has to come with a corresponding label (everything except relationships, it seems), even our dietary preferences and restrictions need to fall under a category. First, I did not even know that I was called an omnivore, meaning I eat animal and plant-based products. I simply thought that was what humans do to survive. To be a social omnivore, from what I derive, serves a deeper purpose than merely choosing to have a falafel instead of a bacon cheeseburger when ordering delivery. It is usually a by-product of environmental awareness, such as minimising one’s carbon footprint. Or perhaps one wants to avoid the health hazards that come with consuming meat and believes a plant-based diet gives them a better chance at survival. Things like that.
See also: Tatler’s ultimate plant-based guide for vegans and vegetarians in the Philippines
So, yes, being a social omnivore seems to come with a side of sanctimonious salad, but being the diplomatic eater that I am, I choose not to ostracise at this point. Instead, I want to understand what this sub-species is all about.
Actually, a social omnivore is a vegetarian that simply wants to belong. Perhaps they have grown tired of missing out on their lola’s (grandmother's) callos during noche buena and the real, undiluted tasting menus at fine dining restaurants. In most societies, celebrations revolve around carnivorous feasts that usually involve some kind of roasted or grilled meat and partaking in it is typically the highlight of the day. My husband shared the story of a high-ranking diplomat he met at an event. She said she was excited about her vegan daughter flying in for Thanksgiving, but not quite looking forward to the soy-based “turkey” they will be having for dinner. Tofu (to some) just has a way of sucking the joy out of life, and social omnivores seem to have simply decided they will no longer subject themselves to that.
In case you missed it: January 2023 Dining Radar: Antonio’s at PGA Cars, Blind Pig, and more
