Buying guide
Where to Buy Arugula, Kale and Romaine in Manila
Arugula, kale and romaine used to be restaurant-only ingredients in Manila. Now more home cooks want them, but supermarket stock is often small, wilted or sold out.
What to look for
- Arugula (rocket): bright green, peppery leaves with no yellowing or slime at the stems.
- Kale: firm, dark leaves that snap. Curly kale is best for chips and salads; massage it with a little olive oil and salt.
- Romaine: tight heads with crisp, pale hearts. Avoid browned cut ends.
- Lollo rosso: frilly leaves with deep red tips, great for mixed salads.
Where Manila cooks buy them
Upscale supermarkets carry some greens, and weekend markets in BGC, Makati and Salcedo have organic growers. For a reliable supply, many restaurants buy from produce distributors that source daily from Benguet farms and importers.
Curated Foods supplies these greens to Manila restaurants and also delivers them to homes in BGC, Makati, Rockwell, Ortigas, Pasig, Mandaluyong and San Juan every day.
Fresh herbs too
Basil, thyme, rosemary, dill, mint, tarragon and flat-leaf parsley are available alongside the greens, so you can order a whole salad or pasta night in one message.
