Since I was a kid, I have always been familiar with palengke or public markets. They are rented stalls where you can buy local produce, meats, fish, and other products. They’re usually crowded and sometimes sketchy, with the threat of pickpockets lurking around. Sometimes, it’s even dangerous to snap pictures. But the prices at the palengke are cheaper than grocery supermarkets. Plus, you will learn about regional dishes based on the native ingredients available here. In other words, going to a palengke has its benefits. As long as you’re street smart or have someone to guide you, going to a palengke should not be a problem.

However, I have noticed another kind of market that has spurted around Manila. These are farmers’ markets that carry organic, gourmet, and specialty products. They are direct from the farmers, artisans, cooks, and connoisseurs. Usually, tourists and ex-pats go here. I’m guessing because it’s safer and easier to navigate than a palengke.

Courtesy of my good friend, Jaq A. at Vegans of Manila, here’s a list of vegan restaurants in the entire Philippines. It’s super handy especially if you have an upcoming visit here. The list also includes vegetarian restaurants with vegan options. Just note that this was actually as of May 2018.