SM Mall Araneta City Cubao, Quezon City (December 2025)

SM Araneta City — formerly known as “SM Cubao” — remains one of Metro Manila’s landmark shopping destinations. Originally opened in 1980 as one of the pioneering branches of SM Retail, the mall covers a gross area of about 102,000 m², with its flagship SM Department Store occupying approximately 85,000 m² across the first three floors. After a major rebranding in October 2022 to align with the broader redevelopment of Araneta City, the mall now carries the “Araneta City” name — a nod to its historic ties to the area’s retail beginnings. Inside, visitors will find a mix of retail shops including the SM Supermarket and a large Cyberzone — making it a go-to for daily essentials, electronics, fashion, and more. Convenient connectivity adds to its appeal: a skybridge links the mall to neighboring Ali Mall, while another connects to the nearby office tower complex — offering easy access for both shoppers and commuters. Overall, SM Araneta City remains a key fixture of Araneta City’s vision of a modern, mixed-use commercial district — combining staple retail, convenience, and legacy in one central hub in Cubao.

Romantic Baboy - Ali Mall Cubao Quezon City (December 2025)

Romantic Baboy - Ali Mall — pictured below — is a Korean-style BBQ restaurant in Cubao that remains a go-to for many craving all-you-can-eat samgyupsal and marinated meats. In December 2025, Romantic Baboy - Ali Mall continues to draw diners for its generous variety of grilled meats — pork belly (samgyupsal), spicy pork, marinated beef, cheese scallops, and more — served along with free-flowing side dishes (like kimchi, rice, and sauces) that help complete the Korean barbecue experience. Many patrons praise its friendly staff and generally good service; on Google, the branch has a solid rating of about 4.4 out of 5. At affordable price points (roughly ₱400–₱600 per person, depending on order) and with a convenient location inside Ali Mall near the Araneta Center–Cubao transport hub, it remains a practical and popular option for groups of friends or families hunting for a hearty, no-fuss K-BBQ meal.

Ali Mall Cubao Quezon City (December 2025)

Ali Mall in Cubao is one of Metro Manila’s most iconic shopping centers, located inside Araneta City. It was inaugurated on June 30, 1976, less than a year after the historic “Thrilla in Manila” boxing match at the nearby Araneta Coliseum. Since then, Ali Mall has stood out for introducing several “firsts” in Philippine retail: the first fully enclosed and air-conditioned mall; the first cineplex; the first multi-level covered parking garage; and the first food court in a shopping mall. Over the decades, it has evolved — undergoing expansions and renovations — but continues serving as a landmark destination for shopping, dining, entertainment, and even government services.

McDonald’s Restaurant Cubao Quezon City (December 2025)

 

The McDonald’s restaurant in Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City is a well-known fast-food stop located at the heart of one of Metro Manila’s busiest commercial hubs. Serving as a convenient dining spot for commuters, shoppers, and concert-goers, it typically features multiple floors, modern interiors, and spacious seating to accommodate the heavy foot traffic in the area. Positioned near key landmarks such as Gateway Mall, Farmers Plaza, and major transport terminals, it offers quick access to McDonald’s signature menu items, efficient service, and amenities suited for families and groups. Its strategic location makes it a popular meeting point and a reliable choice for casual meals within the bustling Araneta district.