Five Zero-Guilt Food Choices for the Upcoming Holy Week

Contrary to public belief, there really isn’t a rule against eating meat of any kind during Lent. At most, abstaining is a tradition that one has full liberty whether he or she will observe it. But, what the tradition that surrounds the Lenten season gets right is on the subject of reflection. Eating less, without having to handpick what you don’t eat, gives you more time to stop and think. It helps that there’s usually no work during the most sacred of days.

In the end, however, you’ll still need food and there’s really no reason to eat pithily. Here’s where The Beat Manila recommends you get your sustenance.

Wildflour

Cruelty-free choices: campanelle cacio e pepe, kimchi fried rice (tray), pistachio oatmeal, mushroom bowl, cabbage soup

Ever since Wildflour debuted, it’s been such a hotspot for many dining choices. That makes it the ideal place for some reflection and pastries. Their cabbage soup won’t disappoint as an entrée in this period. As for something heavier, an order of their mushroom bowl, campanelle cacio e pepe or pistachio oatmeal will ensure you get the bang for your buck.

Delivery: Available through phone, website or courier (GrabFood/Foodpanda)

Crosta Pizzeria

Pizza picks: ECQ Special, Stuffed AF! (vegan option available), Shroomed Out (vegan option available), Vegan Detroit Basic 

If there’s ever a time to try out Crosta Pizzeria’s immaculate vegan pizzas, it’s got to be now. You’ll find it extremely hard to go back to regular pizza knowing that their zero-cruelty versions of Shroomed Out and Stuffed AF! is as good for the mind as it is for the body. Although, there’s really no reason to miss out on their standard picks, like the ECQ Special and the Green Sausage. 

Delivery: Available through GrabFood 

Cibo

Holy week favorites: farfalle alla Veneziana (seafood ragù), farfalle alla Genovese (sauteed mushrooms and basil) il classico (garlic, chili pepper flakes, spaghettini)

Italian food is God’s most precious gastronomic gift to man. Cibo, in their storied life as a go-to for anything Italian, have never put a foot wrong to those who want something light but good. There’s something appetizing in each category, from antipasti to pizza, that you can have a feast for the family without indulging too much. The farfalle options, which have versions of Genovese and Veneziana, won’t leave you hanging. They even have to-go trays and delivery services for when you want to stay at home.

Delivery: Available through phone, website or courier (GrabFood/Foodpanda)

Pancake House

Top options: caramel banana walnut (waffle), fish rolls, mushroom omelette, tuna sandwich

Nothing beats the simple pleasures in life, something where Pancake House excels. There’s nothing that disappoints in their menu, but come the silent days of Lent, try this all-day combo: mushroom omelette for breakfast, fish rolls for lunch and tuna sandwich in the evening. It’s atypical, but in moments of reflection, these could be the trio to keep your mind clear.

Delivery: Available through phone, website or courier (GrabFood/Foodpanda)

Fish & Co.

Fish favorites: Best Fish & Chips in Town, crusted salmon, steamed seafood bowl

Fish & Co’s offerings are available all year round, but they do seem so timely during the Holy Week. But, if anything, nothing else in the city can match what they serve. Seafood is their forte, and with a dish named “Best Fish & Chips in Town,” it won’t disappoint.

Delivery: Available through courier (Bistro Delivers/GrabFood/Pickaroo)