Now based in Singapore, Amanda Griffin-Jacob always makes sure to tick off these vegan and vegetarian–friendly picks when she visits the Philippines
Amanda Griffin-Jacob has lived away from the Philippines for 14 years now, but the WAHM (Work At Home Mum) and International Justice Mission ambassador remains irreversibly tethered to our country. “My advocacy is to eradicate the online sexual exploitation and abuse of Filipino children,” she solemnly shares, stating “this is one of the Philippines’ biggest problems but gets so little attention. It is heart-wrenching.”
It’s a fitting and respectable mission for Griffin-Jacob, who consistently works to lead “a greener and more compassionate lifestyle.” Health and well-being are also key priorities for the role model, values that manifest in hot yoga, regular runs, and her vegan diet to name a few. In addition, the yogi is also the founder of Glam-o-Mamas—an online platform that seeks to engage its community of over 45,000 mothers across the globe in meaningful conversations and connections, all to do with motherhood.
''First moving to Hong Kong in 2008 and then to Singapore in 2014, Griffin-Jacob, her husband David, and her four bright-eyed children had been known to be quite the jet setters, a reputation put on pause by the pandemic. Now that travel slowly creeps into our agendas, the plant-based foodie can all but taste the Philippine eats she’s been kept away from.
Read all about her favourite vegan and vegetarian–friendly spots in the Philippines, below:
See also: Skincare Secrets: Amanda Griffin Jacob Shares Her Evening Skincare Routine
What do you miss most on the food/drink front when you are away from the Philippines or haven’t been back for a while?
Being plant-based, I really miss Filipino vegan food! The vegan food scene is really flourishing in Manila, it’s really exciting. I also miss Philippine mangoes—the best in the world.
What is the first dish you want to eat when you return, and where do you go for it?
The first dishes I always want are the arroz a la cubana and laing from Corner Tree Café! Craving them right now, actually!
Do you have a favourite restaurant in the Philippines? For fine dining and for more casual experiences?
To be honest, fine dining options for vegans in Manila aren’t great compared to other countries. But a few fine dining places will try to provide a vegan option if you let them know in advance. There are plenty of casual restaurant choices—People’s Palace is always a favourite, they have a proper vegetarian menu. I also like Mamou, they have some nice vegetarian dishes and salads that are or can be made vegan-friendly, and love the vegetarian adobado! Wholesome Table is always easy to eat at. And of course, I love Corner Tree Café (fully vegetarian/vegan) and Green Bar (fully vegan).
See also: Vegan And Vegetarian Food In Manila: A Pioneer's Perspective