This initiative, announced by Marvin Kim Tan, the Vice President for Sales and Marketing, aims to address the increasing global and local demand for plant-based options. It also reinforces the hotel’s commitment to wellness, innovation, and culinary excellence. The dishes are designed to cater to today’s discerning palates, providing nutritious and flavorful alternatives that support a sustainable lifestyle.
Staying true to its legacy of adapting to modern trends while preserving Filipino culinary heritage, The Manila Hotel continues to embrace dining trends that nourish both the body and soul. This effort is more than just a culinary shift; it highlights broader benefits such as supporting cardiovascular health, minimizing environmental impact, and promoting overall well-being. By showcasing locally sourced ingredients, these new offerings honor Filipino agriculture and strengthen the hotel’s sustainability ethos.
This innovative initiative is the result of a partnership with the hotel’s consultant chef, Riza Shanti Lim. She is an internationally certified holistic health practitioner, clinical nutritionist, and advocate for plant-based cuisine. Her expertise was essential in the conceptualization, development, and presentation of each dish.
Riza Shanti Lim brings extensive knowledge and 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 trained in Plant-Based Culinary Arts at Pataleban Vineyard Resort in Nepal and has participated in a mindfulness program with a clinical focus at Harvard Medical School. Riza is also certified as a Yoga and Meditation Teacher by 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 showcased a meticulously prepared multi-course preview of the vegetarian fine dining menu, crafted by Chef Riza Shanti Lim under the supervision of Executive Chef Konrad Walter and with the assistance of The Manila Hotel’s culinary team.
Guests enjoyed vibrant and beautifully plated dishes, which included Fresh Garden Spring Rolls in Peanut Cream Sauce, Papaya Moringa Soup with Crisps, Fern Salad with Paneer, Vegan Skewers, an 8-Spice Curry, and Creamed Buko Pandan Plantain with Chia Seeds.
At The Manila Hotel, we recognize the growing importance of conscious dining. 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 in**@************el.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.
