The wholesome truth, it’s good to eat

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

The Wholesome Table flips this script, turning guilty pleasures into healthier treats without losing charm. Think burgers, bowls, and everything in between—only smarter, fresher, and still utterly satisfying. The trailblazer in mindful dining takes nutrient-packed ingredients and gives our comfort food cravings a delicious makeover.

“There’s a misconception that organic food is, number one, vegetarian only, and two, it’s bland,” says founder Bianca Araneta-Elizalde, who launched The Wholesome Table a decade ago with the idea of making healthy fare more accessible and enjoyable. “Filipinos can still enjoy the dishes they’re used to eating, like burgers, pork, and pizza, but now they’re less guilty because these meals are made with better and healthier ingredients.”

Each dish is a masterclass in balancing bold flavors with wholesome goodness. The restaurant isn’t just about serving healthy plates but creating a space where wellness meets community, uniting like-minded individuals who value good food, health, and a sustainable future.

“Our mission is to unite people over good, honest food that supports a healthy way of life,” Bianca explains. “We want to inspire our community to eat well, live well, and embrace a mindful way of eating.”

Taking her vision to a wider audience, Bianca, along with her husband Juan Elizalde, expands the brand to the heart of Ortigas with the opening of a third branch at Shangri-La Plaza Mall. On top of this, a special holiday menu has been released to kick off the festive season in style.

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

Greens, feta cheese, and tender orzo pasta are tossed in tangy red wine vinaigrette for the Orzo Salad, a compelling choice even for those who don’t typically gravitate toward vegetarian dishes. Sweet dried cranberries impart a sweetness that complements the peppery arugula and refreshing mint, while cherry tomatoes add a hint of acidity.

The most devoted carnivores will go head over heels for the Truffle Burger with its juicy and meaty grass-fed beef patty, dijonnaise, sharp cheddar cheese, and luxurious truffle cream, which are all tucked into freshly baked buns. It’s a love story in every bite, made even better when paired with the truffle fries.

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

A tempting selection of five mains is available. The Buddha Bowl is an ensemble of vegan bagoong rice, stir-fried vegetables, roasted potatoes, and chickpeas, with potato curry sauce. Tamarind glaze introduces brightness, tying everything together.

One of the newer dishes is the Pan-Seared Duck, a free-range duck breast perched on a cloud-like pomme purée and drizzled with a tangy blackberry sauce. 

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

There’s also a Grilled Porkchop finished with a balsamic glaze, alongside roasted potatoes. Meanwhile, grass-fed beef is served with eggs, garlic brown rice, and roasted onion petals for the Bistek Tagalog. It is simple yet delivers on flavor, proving that you don’t need fancy to be fantastic.

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

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

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

The newest branch of The Wholesome Table finds its home on the ground level of Shangri-La Plaza’s revamped Streetscape.