Set within the boundaries of Quezon City, Mandaluyong, and Pasig, Ortigas Center is one of the most important business districts in the country. The 100-hectare urban development is home to multinational and homegrown companies such as San Miguel Corporation, Jollibee Foods Corporation, HSBC, Banco de Oro, JG Summit Holdings, Meralco, Aventis Pharma, Teleperformance, Convergys, and Sykes Enterprises.

With prestigious schools, shopping malls, restaurants, bars, and exclusive neighborhoods dotting the area, Ortigas Center is an ideal spot to work, live, and play.  Let’s explore the ins and outs of Ortigas with this quick neighborhood guide.

 

MALLS

SM Megamall

Photo from smsupermalls.com

With over 474,225 square meters in floor area, SM Megamall is the second largest shopping complex in the country. It features a thousand retail stores, restaurants, supermarkets, movie theaters, and an ice skating rink.

Address:  Epifanio delos Santos corner Doña Julia Vargas Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

Shangri-La Plaza

Photo from Flickr

Shangri-La Plaza is an upscale mall that is part of the five-star EDSA Shangri-La Hotel complex. It features international high-end brands such as Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Rolex, and Tiffany & Co.

Address: Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, Shaw Boulevard, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

 

The Podium

With over 100 designer shops and gourmet dining, The Podium is a well-curated lifestyle center for the stylish. The Podium is also the home of the largest garden wall in the country with over 6500 plants.

Address: 12 ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

 

Estancia

Estancia is an upscale lifestyle center of the Capitol Commons development.  It features premier global brands, top-of-the-line merchandise, and sumptuous dining experience.

Address: 1605 Meralco Ave, Ortigas Center, Pasig

 

Greenhills Shopping Center

Photo from Wikimedia

A bargain hunter’s haven, Greenhills Shopping Center has over a thousand stores selling bags, shoes, clothes, home décor, and gadgets at low prices. Greenhills is also a world-renowned pearl hub, where both local and foreign celebrities, designers, and dignitaries come to buy pearls.

Address: Ortigas Avenue, San Juan City

 

SCHOOLS AND UNIVERSITIES

University of Asia and the Pacific

Photo from Edukasyon.ph

Established as a private think tank in 1967, the University of Asia and the Pacific transformed into a university specializing in business programs. UA&P now offers 15 undergraduate degrees, 11 graduate degrees, and two fast-track Master’s program.

Address:  Pearl Drive, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

 

Saint Pedro Poveda College

Photo from Foursuare.com

Formerly known as Poveda Learning Centre and Institucion Teresiana, Saint Pedro Poveda College is a private Catholic school exclusively for girls. It is the preferred school for the daughters and granddaughters of politicians, industrialists, and prominent figures in the Philippine society

Address: P. Poveda Street, Ortigas Center, Quezon City

 

Lourdes School of Mandaluyong

Lourdes School of Mandaluyong (LSM) was established in 1959 after the Ortigas family offered assistance to the Capuchin Fathers in gratitude for their spiritual guidance.  Today, LSM has over 2,000 students from nursery to Grade 12.

Address:  Saint Francis Street corner Shaw Boulevard Barangay, Mandaluyong City

 

Ateneo School of Medicine

Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health is the medical arm of Ateneo de Manila University and a partner school of The Medical City. Would-be doctors will be trained not only as outstanding clinicians but also as dynamic managers and social catalysts.

Address: Don Eugenio Lopez Sr. Medical Complex Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City

 

La Salle Green Hills

Photo from Wikimedia

Founded in 1959, La Salle Green Hills is a private Catholic school exclusively for boys.  Notable alumni of the school include prominent businessmen, celebrities, and politicians.  La Salle Green Hills offers preschool, elementary, and secondary education.

Address: Holy Cross, Mandaluyong City

 

CHURCHES

St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church

Photo from St. Francis of Assisi Facebook

Founded in 1958, St. Francis of Assisi Parish is a Catholic church inside the compound of the Lourdes School of Mandaluyong.  It is a large and solemn church open to anyone looking for a quiet sanctuary amidst the busy business district.

Address:  St. Francis St. corner Shaw Blvd., Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

 

Sancta Maria Stella Orientis Oratory

Photo from Stella Orientis

The Sancta Maria Stella Orientis Oratory is dedicated to Holy Mary, Star of the Orient.  Known as a haven for confessions, the church always has a compassionate priest available to those seeking solace.

Address: Escrivá Drive, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

 

Mary, Queen of Peace Shrine

Photo from Wikimedia

Popularly known as EDSA Shrine, Mary Queen of Peace Shrine is a small church built in 1989 to commemorate the People Power Revolution.

Address: EDSA corner Ortigas Avenue, Quezon City

HOSPITAL

The Medical City

Photo from Medical City

With over 1,100 expert physicians in its roster, The Medical City is one of the top health-care destinations in the country. It boasts of advanced medical facilities at par with international standards of medicine.

Address: Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City

 

RECREATIONAL

City Golf Driving Range

Instead of driving an hour or two out of the city, golf enthusiasts can have a quick putting at City Golf Driving Range along Julia Vargas Avenue. City Golf is open to both amateur and professional golfers.  It also has golf trainers for newbies learning the basics.

Address: Julia Vargas Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

Yoga+

Photo from Yoga+ Facebook

Yoga+ is a yoga studio that offers beginner and advanced classes in Vinyasa, Ashtanga, and Yin. Yoga+ instructors offer different variations for every pose, so yogis and yoginis can practice at their own pace and level.

Address: Level 4 The Podium, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

 

Polecats Manila

Photo from Pole Cats Manila Facebook

Polecats Manila is a premier aerial art and pole fitness studio in Ortigas Center formed in 2009.  Aside from safe and quality lessons in pole fitness, aerial hoop, and aerial silks, Polecats also aims to break the stigma and promote a positive outlook on pole dancing as a sport and performance art.

offers a safe and engaging community where men and women can defy gravity and elevate their strength and grace on and off the pole.

Address: 22F Strata 100 Bldg., F. Ortigas Jr Road, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

 

RESTAURANTS

Tim Ho Wan

 

Photo from Tim Ho Wan

Hong Kong’s most famous dim sum joint Tim Ho Wan opened its first Philippine branch in SM Megamall in 2014.  The Michelin-starred restaurant serves affordable but savory dim sum variants, most popular of which is the Pork Buns.

Address: Ground Floor, Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

 

Ooma

Photo from Ooma PH Facebook

For the best maki in town, head over to Ooma in SM Megamall.  Ooma is a modern Japanese restaurant that serves a wide variety of maki and sushi to sate any appetite. Their bestsellers include Aburi Maki, Salmon Belly Maki, and Ebi Tempura.

Address:  3rd Floor, Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City

 

Silantro Fil-Mex Cantina

Photo from Silantro Filipino Mexican Cantina Facebook

Silantro Fil-Mex may be a small cantina in Kapitolyo, but it sure is not modest with its offerings. Widely popular for its mouthwatering food, Silantro serves Mexican comfort food in Filipino style. Three on the must-order list are their soft tacos, paella fajita, and beef burrito.

Address:  75 East Capitol Drive, Kapitolyo, Pasig City

 

Locavore

Photo from Locavore Facebook

If you’re looking for local flavors with a twist, head over to Locavore at Kapitolyo. Locavore serves Filipino favorites with a French touch.  The twist produced bestsellers such as Sizzling Sinigang, Oyster Sisig, and Boneless Lechon Belly.

Address:  Brixton Technology Center, 10 Brixton Street, Kapitolyo, Pasig City

  

Tipsy Pig Gastropub

Photo from Zomato

Known for their signature cocktails and excellent bar chow, Tipsy Pig Gastropub is a popular hangout spot at Capitol Commons. Tipsy Pig serves no-fail classics like Boneless Crispy Pata and Belly Good Sisig Tacos perfect with your favorite liquor. Open until the wee hours, count on Tipsy Pig to take care of your cravings from dusk till dawn.

Address:  Capitol Commons, Meralco Avenue Corner Shaw Boulevard, Oranbo, Pasig City

 

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Prime real estate developer Federal Land, Inc. is making its first foray into Ortigas Center with high-end condominium development, The Grand Midori Ortigas, a sequel to the award-winning The Grand Midori Makati.

The Grand Midori Ortigas is a two-tower Zen-inspired sanctuary located across the iconic Tektite Towers along Exchange Road in Ortigas Center. The upscale residential towers will feature Japanese aesthetics in architecture and design, replete with Zen-inspired amenities. The elegant yet simple concept will feature minimalist interior design and Japanese gardens that will foster relaxation and recreation amidst the busy location.

To reserve preselling condo units, visit www.midori.com.ph.

Though it is best known as the Shoe Capital of the Philippines, Marikina is now home to a variety of restaurants that will pique your interest and tickle your taste buds. From all-time breakfast favorites and classic comfort food to Asia fusion with a twist, foodies will have a hard time deciding what to try first. So here are a few favorite restaurants you shouldn’t miss when driving east of Metro Manila.

Fino Deli

Photo via Fino Deli Facebook Page

Fino Deli is the first wine bar and delicatessen in Marikina City.  Aside from a great wine and cheese selection, they serve classic Italian and Spanish fares. The classy and rustic interior sets the right vibe to make sure you savor every bite.

Must try:  Cinco Queso, Truffle Mushroom Pasta, Tomahawk Porkchop

Address: 151 SE Dao, Marikina Heights, Marikina City

Ca Phe Saigon

Photo via Ca Phe Saigon Facebook Page

Hidden in an unassuming house in a Marikina residential area, Ca Phe Saigon is a culinary gem that will satisfy your cravings for Vietnamese food.  This hole-in-the-wall serves a selection of soup noodles, rolls, sandwiches, and salads.  And with a Vietnamese leading the kitchen, you are guaranteed an authentic and healthy meal.

Must try:  Banh Mi, Beef Pho, Vietnamese Coffee

Address: 14 Red Cedar Street, New Marikina, San Roque, Marikina City

 Rustic Mornings by Isabelo

Photo via Rustic Mornings Facebook Page

What’s better than an indulgent breakfast? Breakfast in the garden! Rustic Mornings by Isabelo is a garden restaurant known for its serene al fresco dining setting and all-day breakfast menu. Their international and local brunch dishes are pleasing chow to start – or restart – your day right.

Must Try: Buttermilk Pancakes, Waffle Churros, Tinapa Burrito

Address: 11 Isabelo Mendoza Street, San Roque, Marikina City (6 min drive)

 

Café Lidia

Photo via Café Lidia Facebook Page

Café Lidia is named after its owner, Lidia.  A former shoe entrepreneur, Lidia has successfully established a widely popular restaurant in Marikina known for its pizza and pasta.  This warm, homey cafe is often jam-packed, so make sure to reserve a table beforehand.

Must Try: Pizza, Pasta, Buffalo Wings, Nachos Grande

Address: 64 F. Calderon, Calumpang, Marikina City (8 min drive)

 

Balestier

Photo via Balestier Facebook Page

East meets West in Marikina with Balestier’s unique take on Asian fusion cuisine. Balestier gives a fun new twist to well-loved Singaporean, Japanese, and Italian dishes.  For instance, the Laksa Tsukumen is laksa served tsukemen-style where the noodles are served separately from the broth.

Must try:  Laksa Tsukemen, Hainanese Chicken, Salted Egg Wings,

Address:  14 Nicanor Roxas St, San Roque, Marikina City

Miguel and Maria

Photo via Miguel and Maria Zomato Listings

Miguel and Maria is a neighborhood bar and restaurant serving all-time favorite feel-good food in generous servings.  It is also a cozy drinking spot, offering both international and local brews.

Must try:  Baby Back Ribs, Buffalo Wings, Mashed Potato

Address:  89 Lilac St., Concepcion Dos, Marikina City

 

Krung Thai

Photo via Krung Thai Facebook Page

When you’re craving for some Pad Thai and curry, Krung Thai has got you covered. Krung Thai serves authentic and affordable Thai dishes in generous servings that are big enough to share with family and friends.

Must try:  Pad Thai, Pork Satay, Bagoong Fried Rice

Address:  Marikina Public Market, M Cruz Corner WC Paz, Santa Elena, Marikina City

 

Forget Me Not Café

Photo via Forget Me Not Café

This unforgettable little café serves home-cooked meals that remind you of family dinners and delectable baked treats perfect for coffee and tea.  The hodgepodge of picnic chairs, couches, romantic photos, and dainty flower stencils capture the comforting ambiance of coming home.

Must try:  Roast Beef Sandwich, Nutella Cheesecake, Homemade Corned Beef

Address:  24 Lilac St, Concepcion Dos, Marikina City

 

In love with this foodie’s paradise? Federal Land’s  Siena Towers is only a mere four to ten-minute drive from these restaurants. Located near Marquinton Residences along Sumulong Highway, Siena Towers is a two-tower condominium community with pre-selling and ready for occupancy condominium units for sale.  It offers beautiful and secure homes ideal for starting families.  Residents will enjoy outstanding amenities and proximity to business hubs, shopping centers, and premier schools like Miriam College, Ateneo de Manila University, and the University of the Philippines Diliman.

Traditional Peking Duck roasting in themango wood-fueled oven —PHOTOS BY JOAN BONDOC
Traditional Peking Duck roasting in themango wood-fueled oven —PHOTOS BY JOAN BONDOC
At No. 8 China House, the recipe for the perfect Peking duck starts with what the duck eats. The new Cantonese restaurant at Grand Hyatt Manila is modern, but the cooking technique is traditional. To achieve authenticity, and to make sure that sourcing is sustainable, the Grand Hyatt kitchen crew led by executive chef Mark Hagan visited the supplier’s farm in Laguna. They coordinated with Myles Guillermo, the executive farmer of EJG Mighty Duck Farm. On the farm, the ducks are kept in an area exclusive to Grand Hyatt. Ideal for family celebrations, No. 8 China House seats 186 and has seven VIP rooms. The floor has an open kitchen where diners can watch chefs cook the food. The succulent duck was part of No. 8 China House’s opening ceremony menu. Before transferring to Manila, Ho worked in Grand Hyatt Hong Kong for 17 years. No. 8 China House is at the 5th level of Grand Hyatt Manila, 35th St., Taguig City.

Read more: Food, Philippine Daily Inquirer
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/296620/perfect-peking-duck-fatty-special-flavor-skin/