When you think of Manila, images of Intramuros’ cobblestone streets, the chaos and color of Quiapo, or the postcard-perfect Manila Bay sunset often come to mind. But on one ordinary afternoon, with no churches or museums on my itinerary, I found myself exploring something far less romantic but surprisingly revealing—the city’s grocery stores.
Yes, grocery stores.
It might sound mundane, but to a traveler like me—someone who has wandered through 63 countries and called 10 different nations home—grocery stores are a secret portal to understanding local life. And Manila? It tells its own unique story in the frozen aisles, condiment shelves, and snack racks of its supermarkets.
Here’s a personal guide to touring Manila through its grocery stores—and why they just might be the most underrated tourist attractions in the city.
1. Landers Superstore – Balintawak or Otis
If Costco or Tesco and Manila had a love child, it would be Landers. This membership-based grocery chain is a local favorite for bulk-buying families and foreigners looking for imported goods. I wandered through its spacious aisles with an americano in hand (from their in-store café, no less), marveling at how you could find everything from Korean skincare to canned Spanish sardines to jars of queso de bola spread.
But what struck me most was the cross-cultural inventory: it’s like a culinary history lesson showing how the Philippines has been shaped by Spain, the U.S., China, and its Southeast Asian neighbors. Even in the ice cream section, you’d find ube beside matcha and mocha. For tourists, Landers is a lens into the aspirations of Manila’s middle class—global, modern, but still proudly Pinoy.
Traveler Tip: Go for the local chicharon options, locally roasted coffee, and their fresh pan de sal—hot, fluffy, and nostalgic.
2. Rustan’s Supermarket – Makati (Rockwell or Glorietta)
Rustan’s is not just a grocery store; it’s Manila’s poshest pantry. As I walked through its polished, well-lit interiors in Rockwell, I was struck by its curated mix of high-end local and imported items. You’ll find everything from French truffle oil to heirloom rice grown in the Cordilleras.
But what makes Rustan’s stand out isn’t just luxury—it’s the quiet celebration of Filipino craftsmanship. I found jars of artisanal bagoong from Ilocos, chocolate from Davao, and dried mangoes packed like fine gifts. For those who want to take home tasteful souvenirs, this is your spot.
Why It’s a Secret Attraction: Shopping here is like browsing a museum of Philippine food heritage—just tastier.
3. S&R Membership Shopping – BGC or Congressional
Modeled after U.S. warehouse clubs, S&R is a haven for homesick Americans and food-loving Filipinos. When I visited their BGC branch, it was like stepping into suburban America—pizza slices bigger than your face, Kirkland-brand everything, and seasonal promotions for Thanksgiving turkeys and Halloween candies.
But behind this American sheen lies the Filipino flair: look closely and you’ll see locals buying bulk packs of SkyFlakes, Jufran banana ketchup, and boxes of Goldilocks pastries. It’s a window into how Manila mixes its colonial past with current cravings.
Why Go: Grab a New York-style pizza slice, people-watch, and see globalization on full display.
4. UniMart – Greenhills
UniMart may not be flashy, but it’s beloved. Nestled in the heart of Greenhills Shopping Center, it’s a well-kept local secret that combines variety with affordability. I went here after a morning hunt for pearls at the tiangge (bazaar), and was surprised by its treasure trove of local goods—from Filipino condiments to regional delicacies like taba ng talangka and burong mangga.
You’ll rub shoulders with housewives, students, and sometimes even celebrities doing their everyday shopping—proof that even Manila’s elite appreciate a good bargain and nostalgia in a bottle.
Why It’s Worth Visiting: This is the soul of Manila in a supermarket—no pretense, all flavor.
5. South Supermarket – Alabang or Filinvest
Far from the spotlight of tourist guides, South Supermarket is a go-to for locals in the southern metro. When I visited, it felt like entering a time capsule—its old-school layout, handwritten price tags, and humble setup made me feel like I was grocery shopping with my lola (grandmother) again.
They offer a wide selection of regional produce and brands that you won’t easily find elsewhere. It reminded me that Manila, for all its development, still honors its simpler past.
Why It’s a Gem: If you want authenticity and no-frills local flavor, this is where to find it.
Why Grocery Stores Matter When Traveling
You learn more about a place not just from its landmarks but from how its people live—and nothing is more telling than where they buy their food. Manila’s grocery stores reveal the contradictions and character of the city: modern yet rooted, global yet proudly local.
While other travelers tick off churches, museums, and malls, I’ll always remember Manila through the smell of freshly baked ensaymada in Landers, the elegance of a Rustan’s chocolate aisle, and the simple joy of finding patis in a UniMart shelf.
So next time you’re in the city, skip the cliché tour—and take a walk through Manila’s aisles instead. You just might discover a deeper kind of travel.
About the Author:
Jhon Mar Sutacio is a travel writer and founder of Los Viajeros PH, a cultural tour company based in Manila. After living in 10 countries and visiting 63, he believes the best stories are often found in unexpected places—like grocery stores.