Tag Archives: restaurants

Mindanao, Zamboanga

A Feast of Flavors Awaits at SM City Zamboanga

Zamboanga, la mesa ya listo! 

The table is set for something special as a feast of firsts arrives at SM City Zamboanga. Known for its rich Chavacano heritage and a culture where meals are meant to be shared, the city’s love for good food takes center stage with a lineup of dining spots making their first-ever arrival in Zamboanga, bringing exciting new flavors to the peninsula.

At your most loved SM, every visit is made to be savored. True to its reputation as the mall of firsts, SM City Zamboanga continues to grow as the city’s premier lifestyle destination, setting the stage for new culinary discoveries and creating a place where every craving, every gathering, and every bite is all for you.

Opening Bites: A Taste Of What’s To Come

The start of a feast sets the tone, and these specialty cafés set the stage for the spread with something quick, calming, and refreshing before you dive into the rest of the flavors waiting at the table.

  • The Matcha Tokyo 

As an opening note to the city’s evolving palate, The Matcha Tokyo at the third level introduces authentic Japanese matcha, bringing ceremonial-grade blends and mindful cafe rituals that hint at a more refined, global taste experience ahead.

  • Nanyang 

Offering a glimpse into richer regional flavors, Nanyang located at the lower ground level brings the comforting classics of Singaporean and Malaysian cuisine with its kaya toasts and kopi, marking the beginning of a broader Southeast Asian dining presence in the city.

The First Plate: For Your Starters

Once the table begins to fill, the starters follow close behind. These dishes bring the first bold bites of the feast, warming up the appetite before your main spread arrives.

  • Tonala 

Kicking off the spread with vibrant Mexican flavors, Tonala located at the third level brings bold, spice-forward dishes. It introduces a lively cuisine that adds depth and variety to the city’s ever-growing food scene.

  • Bambas by Chef Mick 

Bringing a bold fusion of Asian flavors, Bambas by Chef Mick located at the Second Level, Food Court–introduces thoughtfully crafted dishes shaped by global influences. With its creative approach and distinct flavor profile, it offers a refined and memorable start that hints at the evolving dining scene taking shape in the city.

  • Brique Modern Kitchen 

Blending contemporary techniques with familiar favorites, Brique Modern Kitchen located at the upper ground level delivers versatile, modern dishes that bridge comfort and sophistication, setting the stage for the city’s new dynamic culinary landscape. 

The Main Spread: Serving Your Mains

The feast is now in full swing as the main spread arrives with big plates and even bigger flavors. Bringing globally loved comfort dishes, these spots serve hearty mains made to be shared and enjoyed together.

  • Botejyu 

Serving up authentic Japanese comfort food, Botejyu located at the lower ground level brings its Osaka roots to the city with its signature okonomiyaki, ramen, and donburi that introduce a deeper, more traditional take on Japanese cuisine to Zamboanga.

  • Ettas Cucina + Bar

Bringing a more refined yet social dining experience to the city, Ettas Cucina + Bar located at the upper ground level serves up Italian-inspired dishes alongside its curated bar offering that creates a space for elevated mains and good company to come together.

  • Palm Grill by Chef Miggy 

Rooted in family recipes and Southern Mindanao heritage, soon-to-open Palm Grill located at the third level brings deeply authentic flavors shaped by the homecooked dishes of Chef Miggy’s upbringing. Led by the first Mindanaoan chef to earn Michelin recognition, it offers a meaningful and elevated take on regional cuisine, bringing Zamboanga’s rich culinary identity to the forefront of the table.

Sweet Endings: A Room For More

No feast is complete without something sweet, and at SM City Zamboanga , even the final course is just the beginning. Soon-to-open dining spots will bring even more to the table, from Maurizious Gelato’s rich, handcrafted flavors to new experiences like Yappari Steak and Tong Yang, bringing even more dishes to enjoy together.

Let your next great bite be the perfect excuse to call people up and gather, only here at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls. Where every feast is All For You.

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

About SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You

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Cagayan de Oro, Mindanao

Cagayan de Oro’s Bold New Firsts Begin at SM Supermalls

Craving for some mouthwatering seafood? How about freshly brewed coffee, ready to go? This month, it’s all about what you want—check out these newly opened food and beverage spots heading your way.

You have all the reasons to make life more rewarding with these new firsts. From indulgent  dining to quick coffee breaks, you deserve nothing but the best to satisfy your cravings. 

Have a truly fulfilling day and give yourself limitless possibilities to live the good life with SM Supermalls—right here in Cagayan de Oro City.

Fresh Eats Straight from the Sea at Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant

Experience a unique dining experience with Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant—a bold new take on Filipino culinary traditions perfect for every seafood lover.

This pork-free restaurant offers flavorful dishes with a modern twist, including their signature Balangay Seafood Boil: a hearty platter of fresh seafood served in a custom-built Balangay-style boat—honoring Filipino heritage in a festive spread. Each dish is carefully plated with built-in burners, keeping the food deliciously hot and freshly cooked right at your table.

Indulge in the sea’s bounty, and experience a burst of flavor with this beachside-inspired dining escape at Level 5, SM CDO Downtown.

Coffee On-the-Go with Starbucks Drive-thru

Starbucks, one of the country’s most popular cafés, has opened its first-ever drive-thru store here in Northern Mindanao—giving our busy coffee lovers the convenience of enjoying their favorite blends and brews while on the road.

Kickstart your day with your go-to Iced Latte. Feel adventurous and try one of their seasonal signature brews. Pair your handcrafted coffee or non-coffee drink with a delicious Doughssant. 

Whatever your mood or wherever you go, you can now take Starbucks with you. Whether you’re headed to work, running errands, or just exploring the city, your caffeine fix is always just a quick stop at the North Wing of SM City CDO Uptown.   

Discover new ways to dine—only at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.

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Hotels, Manila, Philippines

6 Unbelievable Restaurants in Solaire Resorts, Manila

In recent years, the Philippines—particularly Manila—has earned a well-deserved spot on the global culinary map. 

The Philippines culinary scene is brimming with heirloom recipes, food-centric festivals, olden cooking practices, and home to world-class homegrown culinary talents that contribute to the emerging popularity of Filipino food. From street food vendors to fine dining establishments, Manila is now home to a diverse and rapidly evolving food scene that rivals those of Tokyo, Bangkok, and Singapore. Filipino chefs are returning from international stints, bringing with them new flavors, techniques, and creative inspiration. Foreign chefs, too, are discovering the Philippines as a dynamic place to showcase their craft. 

This year, The Dot Magazine reported that The MICHELIN Guide Philippines’ 2026 debut will cover Metro Manila, its environs including Pampanga, Tagaytay, and Cavite, plus the dynamic food hub of Cebu, showing how far Philippine food culture has come.

At the center of this culinary movement is Solaire Resorts and Casino, a pioneer in redefining the luxury experience in Entertainment City. While known globally for its world-class casino and five-star accommodations, Solaire is also a rising food destination—home to some of the most talked-about restaurants in the region. Before diving into these six unforgettable dining spots, let’s look at how Solaire built its empire and how it continues to innovate.

The Rise of Solaire: Manila’s Premier Casino and Lifestyle Brand

The Birth of a Luxury Powerhouse

Solaire Resorts opened its doors in 2013, marking a significant milestone in the Philippines’ bid to become a premier destination for integrated resort entertainment. Backed by Bloomberry Resorts Corporation, Solaire was the first to launch within the Entertainment City complex—a strategic development zone set to rival Macau and Las Vegas. From day one, Solaire positioned itself as more than a casino. With luxurious hotel towers, a theater, art galleries, and of course, premium dining experiences, Solaire quickly became a landmark for luxury living in Metro Manila.

Continued Growth and Prestige

Solaire has continuously expanded over the years through the Sky Tower. Additional hotel wings, high-end retail stores, and exclusive gaming lounges have been introduced by Solaire to cater to an elite clientele. Its success also significantly boosted tourism, attracting visitors not just for gambling, but for high-end leisure, concerts, and fine dining.

Solaire North: Luxury Heads North

Now set to replicate its southern success, Solaire North,  the first high-end integrated resort in Quezon City. This expansion in Quezon City shows the emergence of urban hubs, which are becoming key regions for the Philippines. Solaire North is an ambitious expansion that features a towering hotel, retail outlets, and culinary offerings, bringing the Solaire brand to a new, untapped market in northern Metro Manila. With Solaire North, the brand aims to double its footprint while maintaining the same gold standard of luxury and service.

Solaire Online: Taking the Brand Digital

Never one to fall behind trends, Solaire has embraced the digital shift through Solaire Online, its official online casino platform. Accessible across the Philippines, this platform extends Solaire’s premium gaming experience to anyone with a mobile device or computer. One of its standout features is Solaire live slots, a unique gaming experience that lets users remotely play real, physical slot machines via a live video feed. These aren’t simulations or digital recreations—they’re actual slot machines located within Solaire, connected through high-definition streaming and real-time controls. This hybrid approach has helped Solaire significantly grow its brand recognition and revenue streams in a post-pandemic world, proving that innovation is just as important as tradition.

6 Unbelievable Restaurants in Solaire Resorts, Manila

Now, let’s dive into what makes Solaire an unbelievable food destination: its six signature restaurants, each curated by world-class chefs and offering globally inspired menus.

1. Finestra Italian Steakhouse

  • Chef: Alan Marchetti
  • Cuisine: Classic Italian with premium steaks
  • Signature Dishes: Wagyu Tomahawk, Truffle Risotto, Lobster Tagliatelle

Chef Alan Marchetti brings the charm of Italian fine dining to Manila with Finestra, one of Solaire’s crown jewels. With roots in Roman culinary tradition and Michelin-star experience, Marchetti crafts a menu that’s both comforting and refined. The restaurant’s atmosphere—elegant chandeliers, marble accents, and views of Manila Bay—completes the experience.

2. Yakumi

  • Chef: Norimasa Kosaka
  • Cuisine: Traditional and modern Japanese
  • Signature Dishes: Toro Sashimi, Uni Sushi, Wagyu Tataki

If you’re a fan of authentic Japanese cuisine, Yakumi is an essential stop. Chef Norimasa Kosaka, trained in Tokyo’s famed Tsukiji Market, imports the freshest seafood from Japan multiple times a week. Yakumi’s omakase experience is among the best in Southeast Asia, offering a precise and artful journey through Japanese flavors.

3. Red Lantern

  • Chef: David Choo
  • Cuisine: High-end Cantonese
  • Signature Dishes: Peking Duck, Szechuan Lobster, Assorted Dim Sum

Chef David Choo delivers a masterclass in Cantonese cuisine at Red Lantern. Using techniques honed in both Hong Kong and Malaysia, Choo creates dishes that are both traditional and indulgent. The interiors are lush, with Chinese latticework, red velvet, and private dining rooms perfect for special occasions or business meetings.

4. Waterside

  • Chef: Hylton Le Roux
  • Cuisine: Latin-inspired grills and tapas
  • Signature Dishes: Seafood Paella, Grilled Tiger Prawns, Churros

South African chef Hylton Le Roux fuses Latin American and Iberian flavors in this stylish restaurant overlooking the bay. Waterside’s open grills and tapas-style menu make it ideal for group dining and long, relaxed meals. The highlight? Their signature paellas, which take center stage both visually and flavor-wise.

5. Oasis Garden Café

  • Chef: Dennis Peralta (Executive Pastry Chef)
  • Cuisine: Filipino-European light fare and artisan desserts
  • Signature Dishes: Mango Sans Rival, Calamansi Cheesecake, Afternoon Tea Set

Perfect for a midday escape or a refined tea session, Oasis Garden Café blends patisserie elegance with Filipino flavor. Chef Dennis Peralta’s desserts are mini works of art, and the café’s indoor-garden ambiance—with a glass atrium and koi pond—adds serenity to the indulgence.

6. Lucky Noodles

  • Chef: Jimmy Cheung
  • Cuisine: Southeast Asian comfort food
  • Signature Dishes: Laksa, Roast Pork Noodle Bowl, Wonton Soup

For those seeking bold flavors in a casual setting, Lucky Noodles is the go-to. Chef Jimmy Cheung, born and raised in Hong Kong, channels hawker-style authenticity into every bowl. The menu is ideal for late-night diners and casino-goers needing something satisfying and fast—but still made from scratch.

Solaire as a Culinary Destination

Solaire Resorts has built more than just a luxury casino complex—it’s established a global-standard dining destination. From the sushi artistry of Yakumi to the truffle-laced indulgence at Finestra, each restaurant offers a different journey for the senses. Add in the innovation of Solaire live slots and the expansion of Solaire North, and it’s clear: Solaire isn’t just keeping up with the future—it’s defining it.

Whether you’re a visiting high-roller, a local foodie, or an online gamer discovering Solaire for the first time, one thing’s certain: the flavors of Solaire are unforgettable.

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