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Slow-cooked corned beef of Le Bistro Vert

The stress of fast-paced city life has left us something to crave beyond the usual stuff that we see, feel or eat. We look at the countryside and imagine the fresh foods that the people consume there. How we wish we could have those in the metropolis, however, we are imprisoned with a whole lot of love from MSG and other stuff. The good thing though, fresh farm produce cooked to perfection and served by one of the country’s best chefs, is just located right at the heart of Philippines’ financial capital—right at the heart of Makati City!

Le Bistro Vert (“The Green Bistro” in English) promotes sustainable food by sourcing out its food ingredients locally, from small farmers, organic farms or community groups. In turn, these fresh produce–void of those fertilisers and other harmful ingredients—are cooked to perfection by Chef Sau Del Rosario, one of the finest chefs in the country.

Bento Meal by Le Bistro Vert

The restaurant got its inspiration from Chit Juan, Jeanie Javelosa and Reena Francisco after conceiving the popular green store ECHOstore Body Basics (which offers products that promote sustainability in our local economy, some of their products such as the peppermint hand sanitizer spray and rosemary mint soap—all came from local organic farms). They realised that the small time farmers have a lot to offer with their produce. The idea of “directly from farm to the plate” was conceived. Together with the coffee shop entrepreneur Lot Tan, they gave birth to Le Bistro Vert.

ECHOStore Body Basics Peppermint Hand Sanitizer Spray

If there could be anything that is remarkable, it’s the food. I am one of those who look into the provinces and bring fresh farm produce back in Manila. The food at Le Bistro Vert was simply sumptuous and delectable—thanks to the fresh ingredients from the small farmers. I am also touched by the way that they promote our very own goods, like what the owners did to their successful ECHOstore. It’s an aid for our farmers in the countryside who live in meagre income, and at the same time, a support to our local economy. I could really say that, even if the restaurant is French-inspired, our fellow Filipinos get the most out of its benefits.

My order: Slow-cooked corned beef and organic rice! Yummy!

Tamarind Tea of Le Bistro Vert

I tried their slow-cooked corned beef and all that I can say is…finally a break from carne norte! It was delish! Beef was cooked slowly until it is very tender. Beef extract coming from the meat gave the dish its delectable flavour.

Menu of the day at Le Bistro Vert

Part of promoting our very own, Le Bistro Vert offers Kape Isla Philippine coffee. Have a free cup of Kape Isla sustainable coffee at Le Bistro Vert. To avail, just say the code “KapeIsla164” upon ordering your food at the restaurant. This is only available at Le Bistro Vert in Fraser Place, Valero Street, Makati City (just near Citibank and Pacific Star Buildings).

Living towards sustainability of our environment and local economy is something that we Filipinos should cherish about—Le Bistro Vert captured all of these aspects and also my palate. After all, it’s not just an ordinary restaurant, but a restaurant with a dream for a better and healthier Philippines.

Buen comer!