BEST & NEW FIRSTS IN METRO MANILA: Dining destinations you wouldn’t want to miss

What’s better than a full stomach? A heart made even more fulfilled—thanks to all these new and absolute must-try restaurants headlining in the Metro.

This month of July, the cravings never stop as SM continues to welcome new firsts and flagship stores, with restaurants ready to serve you only the best of dining experiences. From the freshest concepts to the most crafty dishes, each restaurant offers a unique culinary journey you won't want to miss. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply in search of something new, SM has everything to satisfy your cravings.

From Artisan Hands To Your Everyday Moments 

There’s a certain magic in food made with heart—from the slow preparation to the flavors that linger. Whether you're craving comfort food or something new, SM Supermalls brings together a mix of dining spots where care and craftsmanship are always on the menu.

• % Arabica at SM Podium - Expand your caffeine horizons with % Arabica. Featuring the finest Arabica coffee beans and a calm, minimalist decor. It's the perfect spot to grab your drink to-go and snap a cute Instagram-worthy photo.

• The Matcha Tokyo at SM Mall of Asia - Starting off fresh with its first flagship store, The Matcha Tokyo expands its presence here in Manila as it continues to deliver its proud selections of purely organic matcha, complete from beverages to desserts. 

• Hoshino Coffee at SM Mall of Asia - For our coffee lovers, inspire your everyday with some rich and aromatic tasting notes from Hoshino Coffee—featuring its signature hand-dripped blends and souffle pancakes. Enjoy your caffeine fix paired with desserts and dishes you’ll love.

Your Next Asian Craving Starts Here

Craving for some flavorful soup? How about some katsudon? Enjoy a month of tasteful feasts with these new Asian restaurants set to make the dining scene in SM City North EDSA and SM Mall of Asia more vibrant than ever. 

• Shaburo 21 at SM Mall of Asia - Delight in a solo hot pot experience with Shaburo 21—a stylish, single-serve shabu-shabu restaurant which opened their first-in-PH store. Originating from Korea, they offer a range of quality meat and fresh vegetables paired with their house-special sauces.

• Katsudonya Saiko at SM City North Edsa - Experience the best katsudon in town at Katsudonya Saiko. With its upscale interiors and authentic Japanese flavors, you’ll feel transported to the Land of the Rising Sun with every lip-smacking bite. Oishii!

Your Food Favorites, Made Extra Special 

We understand that you deserve the best—and that’s exactly what we’re serving: indulgent food in a great ambiance. Check out these newly opened and freshly upgraded restaurants at SM Aura and SM Mall of Asia.

• Kiwami: Japanese Master Kitchens at SM Mall of Asia - Speaking of the best, the ultimate dining destination for everything Japanese cuisine just recently opened their biggest space yet, here at the SM Mall of Asia. Kiwami: Japanese Master Kitchens offer a variety of food options through their lineup of famous dining spots from across Japan. Featuring restaurants like Koyo, Yabu, Ippudo, Hannosuke, Hachibei, fully satisfy your cravings for Japanese food to your heart’s content.

• Niku Niku Oh!! Kome at SM Mall of Asia - This new restaurant is a must-visit omakase-style hamburger steak chain centered on serving quality beef cuts directly imported from Japan—ground daily and prepared live!

• Burger & Lobster’s Terrace at SM Aura - Just a few months after launching their first home here in the Philippines, Burger & Lobster is here yet again with a new, soon to open addition to their restaurant—featuring its freshly opened, totally must-visit terrace area to enjoy your surf and turf combo at. Feel the obsessive vibe. Have your well-deserved dining moment, and dig into this fan favorite from London in the luxury of taking in an equally delicious view.

Hot pot? Japanese favorites? Or perhaps a delightful serving of lobster with a great view? From casual treats to high-end pleasures, we’ve got you covered—only at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

DTI and SM Supermalls Highlight Philippine Coconut Industry Trade

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), together with the Philippine Coconut Authority, proudly launched the 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair from August 28 to September 2 at SM Megamall, shining the spotlight on one of the country’s most iconic and powerful agricultural assets—the coconut.

Organized under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) mandated by Republic Act No. 11524, the fair went beyond showcasing products—it became a coconut-powered movement celebrating sustainability, innovation, and farmer empowerment.

Visitors discovered a diverse lineup of food, wellness, and lifestyle products crafted by Filipino coconut farmers and MSMEs, proving how the humble coconut continues to create opportunities and transform communities nationwide.

Sustainability Meets Innovation

From organic health supplements to biodegradable household items, the fair highlighted eco-friendly innovations that show how coconuts are shaping a more sustainable future.  

SM’s Strong Commitment to MSMEs

As a partner, SM Supermalls reaffirmed its commitment to supporting MSMEs by providing platforms that elevate local industries, create economic opportunities, and champion proudly Filipino-made products.

“By bringing together coconut farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs under one roof, the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair not only strengthens the coconut industry but also empowers the communities behind it. SM Supermalls is proud to be part of this mission.” ~Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls.

With over 220 exhibitors nationwide, the 2025 COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair stands as a powerful testament to how government and private partnerships can drive inclusive growth, uplift Filipino farmers, and build a stronger future for MSMEs.

About SM Supermalls MSMEs

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 88 malls nationwide—marks a new era of connecting communities and redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. MSMEs are everywhere in SM Supermalls. From pop-ups to trade fairs, they transform our malls into launchpads of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship—fueling energy, ideas, and everyday experiences. Be part of this success story—visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com to grow your business with SM today!

SM Supermalls’ Bold New Era: All for You

SM Supermalls marks 40 years of retail leadership with a bold roadmap: to deliver one flagship mall every year from 2026 to 2030, transforming malls into future-ready spaces that anchor regional growth. Alongside these landmark projects, SM is investing over PHP150 billion in 16 major redevelopments and 12 new lifestyle malls, ensuring its entire portfolio evolves into greener, smarter, and more people-centered destinations by 2030.

The opening of SM North EDSA in 1985 forever changed how Filipinos shopped, dined, and connected. From that single vision grew a nationwide network of 88 malls, welcoming millions of visitors weekly and housing thousands of local and global brands. Today, SM celebrates this legacy as both a retail hub and a trusted partner, community builder, and symbol of continuity for generations.

A Legacy Anchored on Trust

“At SM, we’ve always believed that success is shared. From the very beginning, SM was built on trust and relationships. We only win when our partners win. This New Era is not about adding more malls. It is about creating destinations that matter, modernizing the malls people already love, and ensuring every Filipino has access to world-class malling. Our promise is simple. Everything we do is all for you. Our vision is clear. We are building the next generation of malls for the next generation of Filipinos. For four decades, you’ve been with us every step of the way and for that, maraming salamat. As we look ahead, we will keep evolving with you and for you. Because at SM, our success has always been shared.” ~Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls

This philosophy has guided SM through decades of growth and transformation, from opening the country’s first supermalls to building nationwide retail destinations. Every milestone has been anchored on collaboration with tenants, partners, and communities. That same spirit of shared success continues to shape SM’s New Era vision, ensuring that the malls of tomorrow remain trusted spaces where people come together.

Flagship Destinations that Redefine Retail

Over the next five years, SM will deliver landmark flagship malls that serve as ecosystems combining shopping, dining, culture, and community in destinations that anchor regional economies. Planned projects include SM Sta. Rosa (Yulo) in Nuvali (2026), Harrison Plaza in Manila (2027), SM Malolos in Bulacan (2028), Cavite (2029), and Pasay (2030). These projects reflect SM’s ability to raise the benchmark for Philippine retail while remaining deeply rooted in local communities.

Beyond flagships, SM is modernizing existing malls with open-air promenades, lifestyle zones, and sustainable features. These redevelopments will make every SM mall more vibrant, green, and people-centered.

All For You

This vision reflects more than just physical expansion. It highlights SM’s long-standing ability to adapt, modernize, and introduce new experiences that matter to Filipino families. SM is evolving its retail ecosystem to be tenant-led, offering dynamic formats, personalized leasing, and collaborative platforms. Sustainability is a cornerstone, with smarter designs, renewable energy, and eco-conscious developments.

With its reach, partnerships, and track record, SM is positioned to lead the next phase of retail and community development in the Philippines.

40 Years of Partnership

The anniversary is being marked nationwide with over 4,000 exclusive partner-powered deals across all 88 malls, SM’s biggest shopping celebration yet. The milestone underscores SM’s unique position, a company that has grown hand in hand with its tenants while remaining the most loved retail channel, deeply woven into the daily lives of Filipino families.

About SM Supermalls

Celebrating 40 Super Years: A New Era of SM Supermalls, Evolving With YouSM Supermalls, one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers with 88 malls in the Philippines, marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and serving as a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect. As it enters a new era, SM Supermalls continues evolving with you, redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive, meaningful experiences for all.

VIYLine MSME Caravan Rolls Into SM City Masinag This September 17–23

The VIYLine MSME Caravan is bringing its vibrant showcase of local entrepreneurship and proudly Filipino products to the east as it lands at SM City Masinag this September 17–23. Organized by VIYLine Group of Companies together with SM Supermalls, the caravan has become a well-loved platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to shine in some of the country’s busiest malls. From beauty and wellness essentials to fashion finds, home must-haves, and foodie favorites, shoppers can look forward to discovering the creati vity, resilience, and grit of Filipino entrepreneurs.

The caravan has already made waves in its earlier stops across Luzon—including SM City Dasmariñas, Bacoor, San Pablo, Santa Rosa, Calamba, Fairview, Cabanatuan, and Muntinlupa—drawing enthusiastic crowds eager to support local brands and meet influencer-entrepreneurs.

“At SM, we are proud to partner with VIYLine in championing MSMEs by giving them spaces where they can thrive, connect with customers, and grow. The caravan has proven that supporting local is not just a trend, but a movement.” ~Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President, SM Supermalls

Expect a lively week at SM City Masinag, complete with interactive booths, meet-and-greets with influencer-entrepreneurs, and budol-worthy deals that celebrate the best of Filipino MSMEs.

Catch the VIYLine MSME Caravan at the Upper Ground Level of SM City Masinag from September 17 to 23. Support local. Shop with purpose. Celebrate Filipino talent at the VIYLine MSME Caravan.

About SM Supermalls MSMEs

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators with 88 malls nationwide—marks a new era of connecting communities and redefining the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. MSMEs are everywhere in SM Supermalls. From pop-ups to trade fairs, they transform our malls into launchpads of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship—fueling energy, ideas, and everyday experiences. Be part of this success story—visit msme.smsupermalls.com or email customercare@smsupermalls.com to grow your business with SM today!

BEST & NEW FIRSTS IN METRO MANILA: Trends in Lifestyle + Fashion you’ll absolutely want

Excited to meet your new obsession? Perhaps even more hyped up to make your existing ones even more intense? Well, then free up your weekends from errands and get ready to fill-up your must-visit list with all these new crazes at SM Supermalls.

This month of July, we truly got it all for you as we continue to bring you top-tier shopping experiences—thanks to all these new firsts and flagship stores in Metro Manila. 

Iconic Designs That Speak To You

Some works are simply designed to become a pop culture moment themselves, destined to redefine what we think about trends and the mainstream—and that’s what we call iconic! Be part of this moment and check out the newest store that has just opened at SM Supermalls.

From the MCU to the Star Wars franchise, to Jujutsu Kaisen and Demon Slayer, or even something as niche as Beverly Hills, 90210—whatever’s got you poppin’, we get it funkin’. Housing its first-ever store here in Southeast Asia, Funko—the sought-after collectible and pop culture brand—unlocks its first milestone in the region at SM Mall of Asia, offering exclusive product drops, all while promising an immersive retail experience like no other. From characters you love to franchises that have had you fixated for months, Funko has all the Pop! figures your collection needs

Showcasing Your Lifestyle Through Fashion

What you wear isn’t just style—it’s self-expression. Whether you're dressing for work, play, or that special moment, your fashion choices tell your story. At SM Supermalls, we make it easy for you to look and feel your best with a wide selection of world-class brands that help you live your version of the good life. From everyday essentials to statement pieces, everything you need to elevate your lifestyle is right here.

• 8seconds at SM Mall of Asia - Want to emulate your K-pop idols' incredible fashion taste? Say no more! At 8seconds—the first in the Philippines—you can style yourself with the latest Korean trends with comfortable ease. From subtle, neutral pieces to flashier, more colorful garments, you'll step out looking ready for your next world tour!

• JD Sports at SM Mall of Asia - Kickstart your active lifestyle with JD Sports—Britain’s well-received sportswear retailer—which opened its first-in-PH store at SM Mall of Asia, showcasing notable brands like Adidas, Nike, Under Armour, ON and Puma.

• Another Sole at SM Megamall & SM Mall of Asia - Fall in love with timeless designs that’s made to compliment your every style, featuring flats from Another Sole. Comfort for any occasion, perfect for everyday—highlighting stress-tested leather soles and shoes altogether made sustainably, Another Sole will give you the confidence to walk miles with ease.

• Bocu at SM Aura - Stand out effortlessly, featuring minimalist, classic, and slick 365-wears from Bocu—bannering classic styles for the modern individual, now open at SM Aura! From collections that go with your slow moments to functional workwear and pieces inspired by the simplicity of life. Embrace the beauty and power of less is more.

From big names in pop culture finds to designs that fuel your lifestyle aspirations, whatever’s got you going crazy, Metro Manila is set to get more exciting for you—only at here SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

SM and DOST Lead the Future of Sustainability

SM Prime Holdings, Inc., through SM Supermalls, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies, held the inaugural SM Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX 2025) at the SMX Convention Center Aura in Taguig.

The two-day event, entitled "Innovation for Environmental Stewardship," brought together over 50 exhibitors, government agency officials, the corporate sector, the international community, and sustainability activists to display cutting-edge solutions that create a greener and more resilient world.

Symbolic Opening: “Beat of Sustainability”

The Expo began with a ceremonial "Beat of Sustainability," headed by DOST Secretary Renato Solidum and SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy, who each hit the Solidrum, a bamboo drum shell manufactured by the DOST - Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI).

They were accompanied by SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, SM Prime Vice President Jessica Sy-Bell, and Vice President Engr.  Liza Silerio and other dignitaries played the angklung, a UNESCO-recognized bamboo instrument.  The performance represented harmony and joint action to advance sustainability.

Leadership Perspectives

In his opening remarks, Hans T. Sy emphasized that sustainability lies at the heart of SM’s business and highlighted the importance of partnerships.

“Public-private partnerships such as this show how science and business can unite to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. We encourage more of this as the private sector can provide support to projects by local scientists. May this Expo be more than an event. May it be a catalyst for collaboration, a hub for practical solutions, and a reminder that business can be a force for good—when guided by purpose, discipline and partnership.” ~Hans T. Sy, Chairman of the SM Prime Executive Committee

Secretary Solidum echoed this view, noting that SUSTEX demonstrates how innovation and science can strengthen national resilience and drive a circular economy, as championed by similar DOST efforts.

“Through OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All, we ensure that the science, technologies and innovations we develop are not just theories in journals or prototypes in laboratories—they are real solutions, accessible to businesses, communities, and every Filipino. This is also what we mean by Agham na Ramdam—science that is not distant; science that is felt, lived, and experienced by people in their everyday lives. My call is simple: enough talk. We’ve had summits, forums, declarations that fill up shelves and inboxes. What we need now is proof. Businesses must set their sights on real, tangible goals—not pretty brochures, not slogans, but numbers you can measure, promises you can check.” ~Renato Solidum, DOST Secretary

Innovation Marketplace: Over 50 Exhibitors

SUSTEX 2025 included over 50 exhibitors displaying innovations, projects, and products that exemplified Filipino ingenuity and international collaboration.  Notable exhibitions included SM Prime and SM GUUN's "Waste-Free Future" campaign, which emphasized their collaborative effort with Japan's GUUN Environmental Company on innovative waste management. 

ARISE Philippines highlighted efforts to improve catastrophe resilience through private-sector collaboration.  The DENR's Loop Forward Program encouraged circularity and large-scale trash reduction.  The DOST-FPRDI centerpiece showcased sustainable Lalang Pandan furniture, essential oils derived from Philippine plants, and bamboo musical instruments.  Meanwhile, the DOST-CHRG showcased breakthroughs in electric car technology.

A Catalyst for Action

Running from August 29 to 30, the Expo featured interactive sessions, product showcases, and knowledge exchanges. The event reinforced SM’s continuing sustainability roadmap, including its Waste-Free Future campaign and commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2040.

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving with Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers—continuously evolving to lead the way in sustainable development by integrating green design, energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and environmental stewardship into its 88 malls in the Philippines, all while creating inclusive spaces that enrich communities, support climate action, and ensure a better, more sustainable future for generations of Filipino shoppers.

Top 3 Things You Can’t Miss at HIMBON: The 39th Negros Trade Fair

Culinary Creations by Rising Negrense Chefs - Two Negrense talents surprised the crowd and took the spotlight at the media premiere of Himbon: The 39th Negros Trade Fair on August 26, 2025—and their names are memorable.  Their gastronomic cuisine was only a sample of what is possible: inventive, world-class, and proudly Negrense!

This year, the Negros Trade Fair makes its historic debut at SM Aura—and it’s bringing with it  the flavors, fashion, and flair of Negrense heritage. Here are the main reasons of must experiences for foodies, fashionistas, and lifestyle lovers you don’t want to miss: 

#1 Heritage Weaves, Modern Fashion & Accessories 

Handwoven Hablon, hand-smocked dresses, and chic tropical fibers reimagined for today’s wardrobe. Paired with striking local jewelry and artisanal accessories, these pieces prove heritage and modernity can walk the runway together.

#2 Handcrafted Home Finds 

From pandan to bamboo to buri—Negrense artisans transform natural fibers into elegant accents for your home. Discover design-forward décor and furnishings that bring timeless Negros craftsmanship into modern living.

#3 Artisan Sweet & Savory & Pasalubong 

Stock up on flavors that define Negros: – From Mumshies’ delicacies to Virgie’s home-made mango tarts and pastries, plus savory favorites like the Ereneta-Manaloto’s bottled Chorizo de Bacolod and a lot more— Sweet or savory, these iconic bites are made for gifting—or for keeping all to yourself. 

Experience More at HIMBON

HIMBON is more than just a shopping destination; it is also a celebration of Negrense culture.  Sip on Don Papa rum and locally created wines while live acoustic music fills the air, bringing the warmth of Negros hospitality straight to the metropolis.  Let the fair inspire your next vacation with presentations of pristine beaches, heritage haciendas, and gastronomy tours—all of which invite you to experience Negros firsthand.   Of course, every artisan booth and designed nook has a narrative waiting for your feed, so don't forget to document your #HimbonMoments along the way.

At its core, HIMBON means “to gather.” And this fair is exactly that—a gathering of food, fashion, and heritage that  celebrates both tradition and modern creativity. 

• Save the Date: Sept 23–28 | SMX Convention Center, SM Aura 
• Taste. Shop. Celebrate. Experience Negros like never before. 

About SM Supermalls MSMEs 

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and  operators with 88 malls nationwide—marks a new era of connecting communities and redefining the malling experience  through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. SM also champions Filipino entrepreneurship, empowering MSMEs— driving local growth, showcasing homegrown talent, and fueling the Filipino spirit of enterprise.