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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Food devider Fresh bites at SM City Laoag: Local favorites, global tastes

Fresh bites at SM City Laoag: Local favorites, global tastes

Ilocos Norte's dining scene expands with new and familiar food stops

Published Jun 22, 2025 07:11 am
SM City Laoag is quickly becoming a go-to hub for Ilocos diners in search of new flavors and comfort food favorites. As the home of exciting firsts in Ilocos—from global chains making their regional debut to rising local eateries and emerging dessert spots—the mall continues to draw in curious food lovers eager for variety.
For those craving hot, hearty meals, Japanese dining options have been a welcome addition. Nabe offers unlimited hot pot with rich soup bases and fresh ingredients. Diners build their own bowls from a selection of meats, vegetables, and noodles. Marugame Udon, meanwhile, specializes in freshly made udon noodles paired with broths and savory toppings.
Marugame Udon, Upper Ground Level
Marugame Udon, Upper Ground Level
Nabe, Lower Ground Level
Nabe, Lower Ground Level
At Pancake House, diners can enjoy Western-style comfort food such as fluffy pancakes, all-day breakfasts, and sweet desserts. Trattoria Altrove adds an Italian touch with cozy plates inspired by traditional Western flavors.
Trattoria Altrove, Upper Ground Level
Trattoria Altrove, Upper Ground Level
Pancake House, Upper Ground Level
Pancake House, Upper Ground Level
Several cafes and bakeries are now available for quick breaks or relaxed afternoons. J.CO serves soft donuts alongside coffee blends. BreadTalk presents an array of freshly baked pastries and breads with regional twists. At After Tree, visitors unwind in a minimalist setting with tea and dessert. Kumori rounds out the mix with Japanese-style soft bread and pastries, known for their light, airy texture.
J.CO, Upper Ground Level
J.CO, Upper Ground Level
BreadTalk, Upper Ground Level
BreadTalk, Upper Ground Level
After Tree, Upper Ground Level
After Tree, Upper Ground Level
But the draw isn't just international flavors. Homegrown Ilocano brands have found their space in the mall, with several proudly promoting local ingredients and culture.
Amian Cafe focuses on Ilocano-style pastries and local coffee. Meltdown Burger, originally from Vigan, brings bold, indulgent burgers to the northern capital. Milk Pot caters to younger crowds with milk-based drinks and teas in a casual, cozy setting. Old Soul Bar x Beans offers heritage-inspired interiors reminiscent of Vigan’s Calle Crisologo, paired with comfort food and craft beverages.
Amian Cafe, Upper Ground Level
Amian Cafe, Upper Ground Level
Kumori, Lower Ground Level
Kumori, Lower Ground Level
Meltdown Burger, Upper Ground Level
Meltdown Burger, Upper Ground Level
Milk Pot, Second Level
Milk Pot, Second Level
SM City Laoag’s current roster reflects a broader shift in Ilocos Norte’s dining landscape, one that embraces variety while giving space for local entrepreneurs to thrive. From Japanese noodles to Ilocano brews, the mall has positioned itself as a central stop for those looking to explore a broad range of flavors without leaving the province.
Here’s a quick list of some food stops at SM Laoag:
Fresh and savory
Nabe (Japanese hot pot)
Marugame Udon (fresh udon bowls)
Pancake House (classic comfort food)
Trattoria Altrove (Italian-inspired dishes)
Dessert and coffee
J.CO (donuts and coffee)
BreadTalk (artisan breads and pastries)
After Tree (tea and sweets)
Kumori (Japanese soft pastries)
Proudly local
Amian Cafe (Ilocano pastries and coffee)
Meltdown Burger (burgers from Vigan)
Milk Pot (milk teas and coffee)
Old Soul Bar x Beans (heritage-style café and food bar)
As the mall’s food scene continues to grow, so does the appetite of its local patrons. SM City Laoag’s mix of familiar and new offers a taste of both the world and home. #NewEraOfFirsts
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