Back-to-school season does not mean you have to give up your favorite food trips. Even when your allowance feels tight during the petsa de peligro days, you can still satisfy every craving without overspending.
This July, SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan prove that great meals and viral food picks do not need to cost a fortune. Whether you are grabbing lunch between classes, rewarding yourself after exams, or planning a fun barkada outing, these three Northern Metro Manila malls serve student-friendly options that are affordable, filling, and totally worth it.
SM City Valenzuela: Comfort Food That Hits Right
The newly upgraded SM Foodcourt here is more than just a place to eat. It is a cozy spot for students to rest and recharge between classes.
Newcomer Goto Topps lets you build your own bowl of goto with toppings such as tokwa, crispy chicharon, isaw, and betamax. For heartier servings, try the Bola-Bola Special packed with juicy pork meatballs and extra toppings. It is the perfect meal to keep you energized from your first class to your last.
Need something fast before your next lecture or commute? Tori Takoyaki serves freshly cooked takoyaki with a crisp outer layer and soft, creamy center—ideal for a quick grab-and-go snack.
SM City Grand Central: Asian Flavors for Less
Craving international tastes without stretching your budget?
At the mall’s foodcourt, KyuKyu Ramen offers steaming bowls starting at just ₱99. Choose from Tonkotsu Ramen, Spicy Ichiban, Cheesy Tonkotsu, or Premium Umami Ramen. Add gyoza, Beef Gyudon, or Chicken Teriyaki for a complete meal that stays easy on the pocket.
Nearby, Thaiwadee brings authentic Thai flavors close to home. Enjoy savory Pad Thai, rich Tom Yum Goong, refreshing Thai Milk Tea or Tamarind Iced Tea, and their famous creamy Mango Sticky Rice. It feels like a quick trip abroad without the travel costs.
SM Center Sangandaan: Viral Snacks Worth Trying
If you prefer snacks over full meals, these spots are for you.
ChizMozza serves all things cheesy. Pick from Mozzarella Sticks, Mozzarella Bites, 3-Cheese Popsicle, 2-Cheese Monster, or the unique Donut Mozza available in plain and ube flavors. Great for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself.
For K-food lovers, Eat Pizza offers Korean-style solo rectangular pizzas. Made with quality dough, premium mozzarella, and toppings like Pepperoni and Hot & Spicy Bulgogi, these are perfect for busy days when you want something satisfying and fast.
From classic Filipino comfort food to Asian favorites, viral snacks, and more, these SM malls have plenty of choices to match your taste and budget this July.
Gather your friends, plan your next food crawl, and discover your new go-to meal at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan. Good food tastes even better when shared and enjoyed without worry.
