Maria Katrina Paras

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Gnostic and Cosmic Poblacion

<p>At the edge of <strong>Poblacion</strong>, a place known for parties and alcohol, two humble <strong>vegan spaces</strong> can be found. <strong>Cosmic</strong>, a full-fledged vegan Filipino comfort food that has been around since 2018 is a go-to for meatless options not just in Makati but in Alabang, Kapitolyo, Siargao, and Zamboanga. Above it, on the fourth floor to be exact, is the first vegan and non-alcoholic dry bar and cafe in the Philippines. <strong>Gnostic</strong> just recently opened in 2024 but has quickly become a favorite hidden gem among people who accidentally discover it or those who are always on the hunt for places with snap-worthy interiors on TikTok. </p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1750581154922SnapInsta.to_469869637_122147089940368093_8830546564566898026_n.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Gnostic</span></span></span></div><p>If you’re wondering why there are two vegan concepts in this particular building, it’s because they’re owned by the same founders. Co-founder of Gnostic and Cosmic, <strong>Lalita Balagtas</strong> is contributing to the reshaping of what Filipinos think of when they hear vegan food. “Our passion behind it is we want to debunk the idea of vegan food as just salad or steamed vegetables.” It’s no secret that as much as vegetables are incorporated in our traditional dishes, we still have an aversion to going full meatless. Common misconceptions can include: food lacking in flavor, the texture, particularly the meat substitutes, being too unfamiliar, limited options, and that vegan food is expensive.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1750581540763SnapInsta.to_42500743_293409084824159_6482408765897613645_n.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Cosmic</span></span></span></div><p>We paid a visit to the two restaurants, and the verdict is in: it’s easy not to miss meat when there are restaurants like Cosmic and Gnostic. It’s not only a healthier option, but it doesn’t compromise on taste or quality. It doesn’t feel like an “alternative”; it just feels like going to a really good restaurant.</p><p>To give us a little more insight into the must-try vegan restaurant slash bar slash cafe, we had a chat with Lalita about their non-negotiables when crafting an item on the menu, their intent for each interior, and how they want to take you on a gastronomic journey.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>What was the vision for Cosmic and Gnostic?</strong></div><p>Cosmic&#x27;s vision is to make Filipino vegan food available. Its mission is to showcase to people that vegan Filipino food can be delicious. While for Gnostic, the idea was naturally brought about since we practice a sober life. We wanted to highlight that in the brand, encouraging people to have an evening out with good food, drink, and deep conversations with friends. </p><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1750581634745Kare-kare - Photo courtesy of Cosmic.jpeg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Vegan Kare-Kare with Bagnet, Php 295</span></span></span></div><div><strong>Both Cosmic and Gnostic have a meatless menu, but what would you say the main differences are between the two concepts?</strong></div><p>For Cosmic, we focused on Filipino cuisine, while for Gnostic, we have fusion cuisine focused on quality ingredients and vegetables. Inspiration initially is for the Titas of Manila to hang out and eat healthier. </p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1750581720065P1080703.JPG" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Non-alcoholic cocktails at Gnostic</span></span></span></div><div><strong>What are your non-negotiables when crafting food and drink selections?</strong></div><p>Non-negotiables are the unconventional mix of flavors that put local ingredients as a highlight. Most of our food items and drinks have local-based ingredients that are sourced locally or at least crafted locally. </p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Why do you think the bestsellers are so beloved? Any personal favorite dishes/drinks?</strong></div><p>Our best sellers are usually something familiar to people. We keep the menu traditional Filipino and recognized by people. As for our drinks, especially in Gnostic, it’s still familiar flavors, but we add our own twist to it to make it unfamiliar but still recognizable. </p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1750581833205Coco Adobo - Photo courtesy of Cosmic.jpeg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Coco Adobo, Php 295</span></span></span></div><div><strong>Besides the food and drinks, another standout feature of each space is the interiors. What inspired them?</strong></div><p>We wanted to be bold and different with our interiors but stick to earthy materials like wood, stone, capiz, and rattan because at the end of the day, we want to make sure every corner is photogenic or at least will complement our food when customers do take photos. We also value the experience people will have when they come into the restaurant, taking into consideration the interior and the flavors of the food. </p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Cosmic and Gnostic are located in the same building. Was that an intentional choice to take your guests on a gastronomical journey, or do you consider them as separate entities?</strong></div><p>It was intentional. We want you to have a culinary Filipino experience at Cosmic and a more sensual experience in Gnostic, where we focus on light food and out-of-the-ordinary drinks. After Cosmic, it’s time for you to settle down and chill at Gnostic to enjoy long, heartfelt conversations with people. </p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1750581945423Sisig - Photo courtesy of Cosmic.jpeg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Vegan Sisig with Bagnet, Php 295</span></span></span></div><div><strong>Do you see a shift in people taking more interest in visiting wellness spots like Cosmic and Gnostic since you opened?</strong></div><p>Self-care is important now, so the wellness of body and mind is a very natural thing that people should take an interest in. It is such a relaxing feeling to know that the food you eat or the experiences you choose are for the better[ment] of your body and mind. </p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Any exciting additions to the menu we can look forward to?</strong></div><p>We definitely are cooking up more options for our guests, whether it be in food or experience.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>COSMIC</strong></div><div><strong>Kare-kare with Bagnet (Php 295)</strong></div><p>Made from peanut sauce, eggplant instead of meat, pechay, and sitaw, this dish is our top pick from this restaurant. It doesn’t try to deconstruct or elevate the classic dish; it just tastes like something you’d eat at home—simply delicious, and you know it was made with care.</p><div><strong><br/></strong></div><div><strong>Coco Adobo (Php 295)</strong></div><p>It’s true that every household has its own version of adobo. At the Cosmic casa, theirs is made with coco cream and without the meat. But you would not believe how closely the wheat protein mimics the taste and texture of meat! It’s slightly addictive. The dish also contains potato, onion, garlic, and green chilis for that slight kick.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Sisig with Bagnet (Php 295)</strong></div><p>A healthier alternative to one of the most sinful Filipino dishes, Cosmic gives it a twist with seitan, tofu, onion, and chilis.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded" style="width:700px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1750582363580SnapInsta.to_426121250_285733637589261_2806736042285182214_n.jpg" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/><span class="fr-inner">Komida set meals at Cosmic</span></span></span></div><div><strong><br/></strong></div><div><strong>GNOSTIC</strong></div><p>Tantanmien (Php 590)</p><p>A filling meal even for two, this dish is a great embodiment of the restaurant—well-made, filling without the bloat, and makes you question if there really is no meat in there. The ramen has sesame paste soup and ramen noodles as its base, enhanced with tofu, shiitake mushrooms, corn, and vegan bagnet. </p><div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1750582667239P1080735.JPG" style="width:700px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-rounded"/></div><div><strong>Purple Lila Cloud (Php 240)<br/></strong></div><p>A mix of smooth coconut mixed with the freshness of pineapple and citrus juice, topped with butterfly pea tea liquid with a dash of vanilla, is what gives life to this drink that tastes as good as it looks. Great to sip on its own, but not too heavy to pair with your vegan meal.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Pink Rosas Nojito (Php 240)</strong></div><p>Who said sober drinks can’t be fun? Served with real roses, this Nojito is made up of freshly crushed strawberries mixed with herbal infusion and cucumber juice. It’s a refreshing drink you’ll want to savor every sip of.</p><div><em><br/></em></div><div><em>Visit Cosmic at the G/F of 4980 P. Guanzon Brgy. Poblacion, Makati 1210, and Gnostic at 4/F of the same building. You can view more of their menu and get updates on their socials </em><a href="https://www.instagram.com/gnosticphilippines" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>@gnosticphilippines</em></a><em> and </em><a href="https://www.instagram.com/cosmicphilippines" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>@cosmicphilippines</em></a><em>.</em></div>

<p>Skipping animal products is a breeze in these delicious spots!</p>

Skipping animal products is a breeze in these delicious spots!

Metro Wellness Spot: Discovering the Joys of Meatless Meals with Cosmic and Gnostic

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Metro Wellness Spot: Discovering the Joys of Meatless Meals with Cosmic and Gnostic

Chin Ann Obiedo

Published Jun 22, 2025 05:00 PM PHT

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Updated Jun 22, 2025 05:07 PM PHT

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