As you went through the title of this post, I’m sure you’ve questioned my love for meat and if I have in fact switched lifestyles… the answer is yes and at the same time, no. No, I am not converting to veganism but I am exploring healthier diet options starting here at Lun-haw Vegan Cafe.

For those who were as ignorant as I was walking into this Cafe, veganism in a nutshell pertains to a person or rather a lifestyle of someone who does not does or use any animal products or bi-products such as meat, fish, eggs, cheese or leather.

Admittedly, there are very small food options for vegans here in Cebu City which is why it is my pleasure to share to share this little hub with all my vegan/ vegan curious/ health conscious friends and readers today.

Lun-haw, which is a bisaya translation of greens, is a vegan cafe along the streets of Escario street. Located at the ground floor of Maxwell Hotel, this dainty and beautifully decorated cafe is a stones throw away from Anytime Fitness & Epic Performance & Gym, which is a great dining option if you just came from the gym and are looking for something clean, affordable and great tasting!

INTERIORS

I, along with every single millennial on this planet, am such a sucker for interiors and believe that a great environment is one deciding factor of a good establishment. Lun-haw Vegan Cafe is very cozy and refreshing to the eyes with their eye pleasing and informative murals along their walls and my favorite spot… the grass wall which is totes instagramable” (lol!).

It’s a great place to unwind, have a solo or group study session and even have a get together with family and friends.

THE FOOD

Watermelon & Mango Flavored Soy Shake – P 120.00

If you all should know, soybeans and I are not good friends. In fact, I try to stay at least 10 ft. away from them because I cannot stand them. Don’t ask me why but it’s just a preference thing. Surprisingly, I fairly enjoyed this drink opting more towards the watermelon flavored shake which masks the soy flavor a little bit more. But honestly, if no one told me that there was soy in it, I wouldn’t even know.

Buffalo Wings – P 165.00
Cauliflower and broccoli graciously covered in Lun-Haw’s special buffalo sauce

Of all the dishes Paolo & I sampled during our visit, this dish was our absolute favorite! Each piece was fresh, crispy and well coated with the buffalo sauce which could make one easily forget that they’re not actually munching on chicken wings from which this dish was inspired from. If you’re looking to ease your way into trying vegan based food, I would definitely suggest that you start with this dish.

Vegan Burger – P 220.00
A monggo- potato burger patty in a vegan burger bun with tomato, onion, lettuce and cucumber, serves with air fries

For a self confessed burger junkie, I am thrilled to admit that I truly enjoyed this vegan alternate. Honestly, it wasn’t the first time I had encountered a vegetable based burger but I am still pretty impressed at how vegans can still pull off a pretty filling burger. Plus, the sauce for those air fried fries were superb!

Vegan Sisig – P 165.00
Tofu- mushroom sisig in coconut “butter” sauce, topped with tofu “egg” and served with turmeric brown rice and their house salad

I’m not a huge fan of tofu and of sisig so I didn’t indulge in this dish too much. However, Paolo, who appreciates both, liked them pretty well. He claims it’s a good take on the Filipino favorite dish and that anyone who likes tofu (NOT ME!) will enjoy it. I was impressed with their version of eggs and the side salad. I like salads. haha.

Garden Pizza – P 240.00
Tomato- basil pizza sauce, red bell pepper, spinach, pineapple, caned mushroom, red tomatoes, onion, black olives and drizzled with cashew cheese

I was instantly curious about this dish as soon as it reached our table. My first question was, “is there cheese?” no. Followed by, “what did you use to substitute cheese?” cashews. To me, there’s no such thing as a pizza without cheese but you kow, it actually worked. It actually tasted good and I took it home to my overly critical family and even they liked it!

THE MENU

Lun- haw Vegan Cafe is located at the ground floor of Maxwell Hotel, N Escario Street.

Operating days & hours:
Monday- Thursday 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Follow them on Facebook & Instagram for more updates!

EAT YOUR HEARTS OUT,
Issa P.