In a world where dietary choices increasingly align with personal health and environmental sustainability, vegan restaurants never fail to make it to the search list of foodies. When looking for good places to eat in La Union, the province doesn’t disappoint. Fortunately, La Union also stands out as a haven for plant-based food enthusiasts. 

Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a curious food explorer, or seeking a healthier dining alternative, La Union’s vibrant vegan scene is ready to captivate your taste buds with its innovative, cruelty-free offerings. So, if you’re living in La Union, residing nearby, or regularly going on healthy food trips to give your palate a different taste experience, bookmark this compilation of the best vegan restaurants in La Union.

Restaurants are presented in no particular order.

1. Buhay Gulay

Photo from Buhay Gulay

Adobo flakes, sisig, and bopis – classic Filipino viands. Take one bite and your eyes will widen with delight. These dishes don’t have an ounce of meat in them. They’re all made with mock meat that Buhay Gulay owners, Julienne and Alger make themselves. 

Buhay Gulay’s bestseller is their vegan barbecue. Their barbecue is made of wheat flour, made even more authentic with their recipe of Filipino-style BBQ sauce. It’s sweet, smoky, and meaty without the carbs and fats. 

Their viands are available in 2 serving sizes: solo for 1 person costs 99 pesos, and full size for 2-3 persons costs 179 pesos.  

Address	Main Branch:7 Mac Arthur Hwy Lingsat, San Fernando La Union, Philippines Second branch: Port San Juan, Urbiztondo
Operating Hours	HQ: 11 AM – 2 PMPort San Juan: 11 AM – onwards (closing times vary)

2. Wafflejoint

Photo from Waffle Joint 

Your days of guilty snacking are over. Wafflejoint’s waffles give you the satisfaction of enjoying their meat-free, egg-free, and dairy-free waffles. If you’re craving a sandwich, try their Chick’n Waffle Sandwich or Hickory BBQ Sandwich. 

If you need a dessert to give you a sweet ending to your meal, their Cacao Hazelnut and Cookies and Cream waffles are decadent without being overpowering. Waffle Joint also has Lemon Lavender waffles if you want something sweet that is out of the ordinary. 

Address	Circle Road, Urbiztondo, San Juan
Operating Hours	Thursday to Sunday9 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 8 PM

3. HariBowl Vegetarian Kitchen

Photo from HariBowl Vegetarian Kitchen

Step into a haven of plant-based delights at this vegetarian restaurant, where a diverse array of Asian and Filipino dishes grace the menu alongside plant-based frozen foods and supplements. Some of the best-sellers of HariBowl Vegetarian Kitchen are chicken inasal, siopao, and nachos – meat-free and guilt-free!

Address	Junester Bldg, MacArthur Hwy, Lingsat, San Fernando La Union,
Operating Hours	Monday to Sunday10 AM to 5 PM

4. Seabuds La Union

Photo from Seabuds La Union

La Union has its fair share of vegan restaurants. But, you know what’s better than eating healthy food? Enjoying vegan dishes while relaxing at the beachfront. Seabuds has the perfect spot if you’re looking for a place to nourish your body and rest your spirit.

Their rice bowls start at 279 pesos and include tofu scramble and garlic brown rice served in generous portions. They also have beetroot hummus and pesto sandwiches that are tasty and healthy. 

Their smoothie bowls are a kaleidoscope of colors and flavors, crafted with ingredients that burst with natural sweetness. Seabud’s menu also offers oat milk and vegan cookies for a light snack.

Address	238 Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union,
Operating Hours	Monday to Sunday8 AM to 5 PM

5. Nourished Elyu

Photo from Nourished Elyu

Rice-topping bowls hit that spot whenever you want a quick but satisfying meal. Nourished Elyu doesn’t just give you meals, they give you guilt-free rice bowls! Take your pick from their plant-based sisig, lechon kawali, siomai, and ribs. 

To ensure you get your daily dose of fiber, their smoothie bowls or refreshing drinks will help you meet your dietary needs while powering you up for a busy day. Whether it’s your comfort food or drink, Nourished Elyu has the comfort you need. 

Address	Port San Juan, San Juan, La Union,
Operating Hours	Monday to Sunday10 AM to 9 PM

6. Makai Bowls

Photo from Makai Bowls

Enjoy your smoothie bowls on another level with a cozy ambiance and sea view. Inspired by Hawaiian acai-based smoothies, Makai Bowls brings a healthier way of snacking to La Union locals and tourists. 

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing option for your surf session, go for the Beach Break green smoothie bowl with spinach, banana, mango, pineapple, spirulina, and coconut water. For a more familiar taste in your first smoothie bowl experience, indulge in the Carille chocolate smoothie bowl, banana, peanut butter, cacao, maca, coconut oil, coconut milk, and honey.

Address	The Great Northwest Philippine Travel Stop & Viewing Deck, San Juan, Philippines
Operating Hours	Monday to Sunday10 AM to 9 PM

7. Curo

Photo from Curo La Union

Do you know what every foodie’s dream is? An IG-worthy restaurant that serves delicious food! Curo La Union gives you fusion food that brings together a medley of tastes. They are highly praised for their brunch sets, especially their Curo Vegan Breakfast – sweet potato hash with sauteed mushrooms, mixed vegetables, and vegan cheese.

Their coffees are also a must-try – the perfect partner to their breakfast sets. Try their iced Granola Latte, Hojicha Latte, or Einspanner. These beverages are the perfect pick-me-up drinks!

Address	Curbside Villa, Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union, Philippines
Operating Hours	Monday to Sunday7 AM to 9 PM

8. Little Canggu

Photo from: Little Canggu 

Little Canggu brings Bali to La Union with its Balinese fusion food. After all, it is named after a coastal village in South Bali.  Their Mie Goreng features homemade noodles perfectly fried with fresh vegetables, and mushroom balls garnished with cucumber and tomato. The skewered Tempeh Satay, coated in a rich peanut satay sauce, offers a perfect blend of nutty and savory notes. Their Nasi Goreng includes a tasty twist – Vigan longganisa. 

You can always ask them to remove the egg from your order.

Address	Pentecostal Compound (beside Flotsam and CleanBeach), Urbiztondo, San Juan, Philippines
Operating Hours	Monday to Sunday (closed on Tuesdays)9:30 AM to 8 PM

9. Coco Mama

Photo from Coco Mama 

Ice cream that is vegan, lactose-free, non-dairy, gluten-free, and has a low glycemic index. Sounds like a dream, right? Coco Mama makes it possible not only for people visiting Boracay but also for those in La Union.

Coco Mama’s ice cream achieves a perfect harmony of sweetness and creaminess, boasting a soft and rich texture. The crunchy pinipig topping makes their ice cream more delightful.

Address	MacArthur Highway (Manila North Road), Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union
Operating Hours	Monday to Sunday10 AM to 11 PM

10. Kermit

Photo from Kermit La Union

If you’re planning a date in La Union, make sure it’s at Kermit. They are well known for serving mouthwatering pizza and pasta and amazing cocktails. Their Vegan Pizza has a thin, crisp crust topped with thinly sliced zucchini,  artichokes,  sweet bell peppers, and mushrooms. Crowned with a generous handful of fresh arugula, the pizza receives a final touch of peppery freshness. 

Let the delectable Vegan Pizza be your passport to an unforgettable dining experience.

Address	The Great Northwest, Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union
Operating Hours	Wednesdays4:00 PM – 11:00 PM Thursday to Monday11:30 AM – 2:00 PM4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

The compilation of these 10 vegan restaurants in La Union reflects the growing global trend towards healthier and more sustainable dietary choices. From mock meat classics to guilt-free waffles, these restaurants provide many options for those seeking a healthier lifestyle.

It’s encouraging to see various options available for those who embrace a vegan lifestyle, promoting personal health and contributing to environmental sustainability.

If you run out of restaurants to try in La Union, or you’re searching for a serene hangout spot or your next staycation destination, Manna Kitchen is the place to go. It gives you the two most essential things you need when unwinding – great food and exceptional ambiance.

Their carefully curated menu caters to diverse tastes – whether you’re a sweet tooth, coffeeholic, or pasta lover. Manna Kitchen stays true to its word origin – nourishment. 

Discover Culinary Delights at Manna Kitchen

Located in Ili Sur, San Juan La Union, Manna Kitchen is a tranquil retreat 300 meters from the nearest beach and a convenient less than 2-kilometer drive to the vibrant surf town community of Urbiztondo.

This hidden but not-so-secret restaurant is part of Aginana Villas. It is the culinary gem that seamlessly integrates with the spirit of Aginana and complements this haven of repose. Much like the villa, Manna Kitchen is a refuge for the senses, where carefully curated flavors and warm hospitality intertwine to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Dive and Dine at Manna Kitchen

One of the best things about Manna Kitchen is its various arrangements and menu offerings. You can enjoy their Dive and Dine, which combines two enjoyable activities – eating and swimming. With Dive and Dine, you can occupy their poolside tables to give you easy access to their swimming pool. 

For 350 pesos per person, we enjoyed swimming plus one free drink and made the right choice. Their mango and grape shakes were very refreshing without being overwhelmingly sweet while the lemonade had the right amount of zest coupled with the cool essence of mint. At first glance, 350 might seem like a hefty price for swimming, but it was a good deal for us considering that their refreshers were priced at around 150 pesos each. 

They also have a dedicated coffee bar, albeit with a small space; it’s perfect for freelancers like me who want a change of scenery. We all know how working from home can get a bit lonely sometimes. The compact area is also a benefit since it gives me a cozy feeling while working, especially since it’s airconditioned.

I go here almost every week because this place just ticks all the boxes for me as someone who works remotely. I can do three essential things in my routine: work out, eat out, and be productive. This trifecta of offerings makes Manna Kitchen my go-to destination, providing the perfect balance for my work and leisure needs.

Manna Kitchen’s Menu

The menu options of Manna Kitchen add to its appeal. No matter what kind of sudden cravings you get, they’re ready to serve dishes, snacks, and beverages that will satisfy you fully. 

We had our team get-together here last December 2023. Our afternoon hangout was made perfect by their Strawberry balsamic grilled cheese, black truffle cream pasta, & 4-in-1 pizza. These sumptuous snacks were paired with mango and grape shakes and lemonade.

What We Ordered at Manna Kitchen

Basket of Paper Thin Potatoes

Who doesn’t love potatoes? And as big fans of potato snacks, we unanimously agreed on this for our appetizer. True to their description, it really was paper-thin but they fried to the perfect crispiness. We were impressed because it was the perfect golden color and had no burnt parts.  

But what sealed the deal was their whole-grain aioli dip. The whole-grain aioli presented a multi-dimensional taste profile. Its rich and creamy emulsion base provided a velvety texture that clung to the delicate potato slices. The use of whole-grain mustard in the aioli brought a delightful crunch and a burst of earthy flavors, intertwining with the creaminess to create a harmonious balance.

Strawberry Balsamic Grilled Cheese

For a sandwich that is everything but ordinary, their strawberry balsamic grilled cheese takes you on a flavorful trip. Their buttered sourdough was crispy outside but fluffy inside. The combination of chedarella and parmesan, creamy boursin, and strawberry preserve gave you that endless surprise bite after bite. 

To top it all off, a drizzle of balsamic reduction turns this grilled cheese into a masterpiece of sweet, tangy, and downright delicious flavors. It’s a gourmet experience that made us rethink everything we know about grilled cheese.

Black Truffle Cream Pasta

Truffle can be an acquired taste, especially because of its smell. But Manna Kitchen makes magic happen with their black truffle cream pasta. The linguini was perfectly cooked. The shiitake mushrooms, tender and earthy, added a delightful chewiness, further boosted by black truffle salsa with its distinct taste and aroma. 

The warm focaccia bread completed this sharp, savory dish that left us wanting more. 

4-in-1 Pizza

Four pizza flavors are available – white, BBQ Chicken, Cheese P and Beef Taco. But if you’re indecisive when ordering pizza, 4-in-1 Pizza is for you. You can try all the flavors and decide which one is your favorite. White is made of four kinds of cheese, BBQ Chicken features their homemade BBQ sauce, Cheese P has double mozzarella and beef taco is the delicious Mexican taco transformed into a pizza. 

No matter which flavor you choose, one thing is for sure. Your pizza will never be boring again!

How to go to Manna Kitchen

If you’re driving from Manila, it will take 4.5 to 5 hours via private car. However, if you’re traveling from Baguio or Ilocos Sur, it will take around 2.5 hours. If you prefer taking the bus, you can book your tickets online. Here’s their Google Maps location. 

Good to know:

• They are open for walk-ins for Manna Kitchen. 
• Avail of their Dive and Dine for 350/pa. Inclusive of one free drink.
• Are you a freelancer who wants a new working spot? Their two wifi connections are stable and reliable.
• The coffee bar can double as a workspace but is not recommended for meetings as it can get noisy sometimes
• Swimming is one of the best exercises for overall health. Work + Work out here! 
• Business hours are Monday to Thursday, 8 AM to 6 PM. Friday to Sunday, 8 AM to 9 PM. They are closed on Wednesdays. 
• Follow on Instagram @mannakitchen.lu
• Delivery: Inquire through their IG page.

Key Takeaway

We uncovered a hidden gastronomic gem in this private sanctuary, where great food and exceptional ambiance blend seamlessly, creating moments that linger long after our stay.

From the paper-thin perfection of the Potato Basket to the unexpected delight of the Strawberry Balsamic Grilled Cheese and the aromatic magic of Black Truffle Cream Pasta, every dish celebrates taste. 

We highly recommend Manna Kitchen if you’re a local looking for a new hangout spot, a traveler exploring La Union, or a freelancer in need of a refreshing workspace. It is more than just dining and swimming; it’s a leisurely escape into a culinary oasis.

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that combines the rich flavors of Japanese cuisine with the soothing ambiance of a beachfront paradise? Look no further than Ramenrique, the brainchild of owner Enrique De Dios, a hidden gem nestled in Elyu (La Union). If you have a penchant for Japanese cuisine and seek a unique dining experience by the beach, this is the place to be. And here’s a tantalizing sneak peek of what awaits you at Ramenrique:

How Ramenrique Started

Ramenrique, owned by Enrique De Dios, is a must-visit ramen shop in Elyu (also known as La Union) for those who love Japanese cuisine and are looking for a unique dining experience by the beach. If you’re lucky, you might even see them making the noodles, as it’s made fresh in-house weekly!

Here’s some information on what you can expect at Ramenrique:

Menu Highlights:

Gyoza: Start your meal with the delicious gyoza, featuring a crispy exterior and a flavorful, warm filling. The traditional dipping sauce complements them perfectly.

Karaage: If you’re waiting for your main ramen orders, try the karaage (chicken nuggets). These crispy and tasty chicken bites are ideal for both adults and kids.

Bonitofu: The chilled slices of silky tofu, sesame dressing, chili powder, and bonito flakes make for a refreshing and flavorful appetizer. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Spicy Miso Ramen: This ramen option features a balance of creaminess and heat. The chashu (sliced pork) and ramen eggs are prepared in-house, adding to the authenticity of the dish.

Tantamen Ramen: Similar to the Spicy Miso Ramen, the Tantamen Ramen boasts fresh, high-quality ingredients. The savory broth with a hint of spiciness pairs perfectly with the ajitsuke tamago (marinated ramen egg).

Tsukumen Ramen: A recent addition to the menu, the Tsukumen Ramen is unique as it comes with chilled, chewy noodles topped with chashu and ajitsuke tamago served alongside a warm, flavorful broth in a separate bowl. You can dip the noodles into the broth or add the broth to the noodles for a versatile dining experience.

Location: Ramenrique is located in Elyu’s Surftown area. To get there, you can make your way from the beachside through an entrance near Monaliza Surf Resort. Look for the distinct Japanese signages and a dining area inspired by classic Japanese shop stands (yatai) that typically sell ramen bowls during festivals. The cozy atmosphere adds to the charm of this ramen spot.

Quality and Craftsmanship: Ramenrique takes pride in not taking shortcuts in their preparation. It took the team six months to perfect their ramen bowls, including the creation of their noodles. They prepare everything in-house, from the noodles to the chashu and ajitsuke tamago, ensuring the highest quality.

Atmosphere: The restaurant has a small and intimate setup, allowing you to watch the team as they prepare your ramen, dumplings, and appetizers. This transparency reflects their commitment to using the best quality ingredients and careful preparation. Bonus: As you sit by the bar, prepare to be welcomed by a Japanese ramen cat meme!

History: Unknown to many, Inky’s affection for Japanese food began a long time ago. The spark for the idea of opening a ramen shop ignited when he chanced upon a ramen arena during one of his many trips to Japan. Imagine a place with over 50 ramen booths! The preliminary phase of the ramen shop in Elyu consisted of successive pop-ups, each version refining the recipe based on customer feedback.

Other amenities: 

• Excited to share your experience with friends? Free Wi-Fi!
• Family-friendly? Definitely!
• Coming with your furry friend? Pets are welcome. 
• Beach access: It’s a quick minute away from the beach!
• Business hours: Fri-Sat, 11am-9pm. Sun 10am-2pm
• Follow on Facebook and Instagram @ramenrique.ph
• Delivery: Drop them a message on their socials!

Ramenrique Elyu Menu

Conclusion

Whether you’re a surfer looking for a satisfying post-surf meal or simply a ramen enthusiast, Ramenrique is a must-visit spot in Elyu. Don’t forget to finish your meal with complimentary in-house green tea for a truly memorable dining experience. Be sure to check their opening hours and consider making a reservation, as this popular ramen spot tends to get busy. Enjoy your ramen cravings at Ramenrique!