The Travel Strategist
1. A Purely Vegetarian Café with Plenty of Vegan Options
Located under the Diversion Road footbridge in Mandurriao, Monkey Grounds Coffee is 100% vegetarian and offers a thoughtful vegan menu that satisfies without feeling preachy. It’s consistently rated one of Iloilo City’s top vegetarian spots—and even national reviewers have praised it as “one of the better vegetarian places in the Philippines.”
Monkey Grounds Shines in the Gastronomic Capital of the Philippines
Iloilo City has proudly earned the title of the Gastronomy Capital of the Philippines—thanks to its rich culinary heritage, farm-to-table movement, and thriving cafe culture. Monkey Grounds Coffee adds a distinct flavor to this mix with its plant-based innovation, sustainable ethos, and relaxed cafe culture. For those searching where to eat healthy in Iloilo, or looking for best vegetarian cafes in Iloilo, this one checks all the boxes.
2. Dishes That Surprise You with Flavor
Their menu goes beyond typical café fare. Try the spicy Fire Bowl—crispy tofu with rice and bold, zingy sauces—or the vegan Lechon Kawali, with convincing texture and presentation. The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Burger, even with its plant-based twist, impresses with freshness and flavor.
3. Sustainability You Can Taste
Monkey Grounds scores high on eco-credentials: sourcing 80% of ingredients through contract farming with Iloilo growers, minimizing packaging waste, and championing gender equality in its hiring. Their story on sustainable innovation earned them recognition on AIM2Flourish.
4. A Local Favorite with Low-Key Vibes
Reddit users and TripAdvisor reviewers rave about its welcoming ambiance: “Great coffee, great food, great ambiance!” With multiple seating zones, an industrial-chic aesthetic, and a relaxed service flow, it’s a favorite for coffee lovers and veg-seekers alike.
5. Recognized for Its Innovation and Impact
Not only is Monkey Grounds a community favorite—it’s also ranked in top cafe lists for its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. With a strong online presence and scores of positive reviews, it’s one of few local cafés shaping Iloilo’s gastronomy scene and redefining how we see vegetarian food in the Visayas.
Try Their:
- Chicken Garlic Parmesan Burger: A refreshing and light patty with flavor-packed crunch, served with seasoned fries.
- California Dreaming: A dessert‑inspired coffee drink with a creamy twist, orange garnish, and cinnamon rim.
What Makes Mandurriao’s Coffee Spot Worth the Visit
- Centrally located on Diversion Road, Iloilo City, perfect for morning brews or afternoon hangs.
- Endorsed by locals and travelers searching for healthy eats in Iloilo or vegetarian food near SM City Iloilo.
- A purpose-driven café with honest food, strong brews, and sustainable practices.
Monkey Grounds Coffee
- 📍 Diversion Road (under the footbridge), Mandurriao, Iloilo City
- 🕒 Open daily for dine-in, outdoor seating, and takeaway
- 🌱 100% vegetarian with vegan options
- 💻 Monkey Grounds Coffee Facebook
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