Vlad Bunoan

Conti’s kicks off 2026 with ‘Mindful Meals’

Article (news)

Ralph Revelar Sarza

<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1769497994117ContisPlatters_0096.jpg" style="width:633px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/>Handout</div>MANILA — New year, new meals. At Conti’s, the 2026 reset arrives through a thoughtful expansion of its savory repertoire. It is a subtle pivot for a brand that has long dominated the dessert table, now showing it can be just as intentional with a dinner fork as with a cake slicer.The Mindful Meals collection serves as a fresh bridge to better habits. Launching in all stores on January 15, this three-dish series introduces a lighter, more balanced cadence to the restaurant’s menu. Available for both dine-in and delivery, the lineup captures the spirit of the season, offering a thoughtful retreat for those looking to balance out the holiday indulgence.The Light Teriyaki Salmon (₱585) is the most restrained of the three — and, personally, the one I’d order again. Pan-seared and finished with a light teriyaki glaze, it keeps sweetness in check and keeps the fish the focus. The flavors are clean and composed, the kind that don’t demand attention but reward it. The Wholesome Ribeye Steak (₱595) serves as a robust yet grounded anchor to the menu. This is a dish for the traditionalist — unapologetically protein-forward and perfectly grilled. What makes it “mindful” is the intentional portioning. It offers the luxury of a ribeye without the heavy commitment of a traditional steakhouse serving, making it the heartiest option in the lineup without feeling out of place. For a lighter, more agile option, the Zesty Chicken Souvlaki (₱345) hits the mark. At the most accessible price point in the series, this herb-marinated grill leans into bright, Mediterranean-inspired flavors. It is the quintessential weekday lunch — straightforward, vibrant, and perfectly suited for a quick post-workout refuel or a busy afternoon at the office.Mindful Meals brings the focus back to the savory side of Conti’s as holiday routines fade. Rather than demanding a lifestyle overhaul, these dishes offer a simple adjustment to what shows up on the table. They arrive just as people start looking for choices that feel manageable for the long run. By the time that initial New Year motivation begins to dip, these options provide a practical middle ground. It simply meets diners where January usually leaves them.