QC eats: This restaurant will help you get into the keto diet

MANILA – If you want to try the keto diet, this restaurant near the ABS-CBN headquarters in Quezon City is a great place to start.

Gourmet Gypsy Art Café started out as a “laboratory” where people with special needs are taught and empowered to take on real jobs. Just last year, chef-owner Waya Wijangco added keto items to their menu, which consists of dishes inspired by her travels.

“I went on keto myself,” Wijangco told ABS-CBN News, adding that it was her friends who encouraged her to offer her personal meals at the restaurant.

As she learned more about the keto diet, Wijangco slowly removed sugar and starch from Gourmet Gypsy’s menu, replacing these with healthier alternatives.

They made everything from scratch and low-carb, down to the sauces, salad dressings, and beverages. Wijangco said they often get customers who have diabetes and kidney problems, and they get to enjoy their offerings without any guilt.

“We’re dealing with people who are sick, who are using this to improve their health,” she said. “We are taking this very responsibly. Our products are really diabetic-approved.”

Among the keto items offered at Gourmet Gypsy is the Skillet Foccacia, which is made of almond flour and served with a cheesy spinach and sundried tomato dip. It’s warm, soft, and comforting, like the food equivalent of a big hug.

“Maligaya ‘yang bread na ‘yan,” said Wijangco. “We bake that to order.”

Another must-try here is the Shirataki Chapchae, Gourmet Gypsy’s take on the Korean stir-fried glass noodles. This low-carb dish uses the “magical” Japanese konnyaku plant, with thin-cut beef and sautéed vegetables mixed in. Truth be told, it tastes a lot like the original, so you won’t feel you’re on a diet at all.

“Shirataki noodles are zero-carb, zero-protein, and only two calories for 100 grams. It’s magic. Best friend ng keto ‘yan, kasi busog ka agad,” Wijangco said.

Those who are looking for a rice and viand combo can try the Indian Butter Chicken with cashew masala gravy, yogurt tahini, toasted almonds, and cauliflower rice. Other side dish options include quinoa, salad, and keto pita, to name a few.