The Mall That Defined an Era
Glorietta opened in 1981 and was one of the first modern shopping malls in the Philippines. Back then, it was something entirely new — air-conditioned walkways, department stores under one roof, and a central park that gave it a name. "Glorieta" in Spanish means a small garden or park, and the name stuck even as the complex grew into six interconnected towers.
Today it's part of the SM Mall of Asia empire in terms of sheer scale, but Glorietta still holds a special place in the hearts of Manila locals. It's closer to the action than the SM Megamall in Ortigas or SM Aura in Taguig. You're right in the middle of Ayala Avenue, surrounded by office towers, with the Makati skyline rising all around you. The central park is still the heart of the complex, and on weekends you'll find families, kids on scooters, and people just sitting on the benches watching the world go by.
Dining and Art
The dining scene at Glorietta has evolved significantly over the years. The food court on the upper floors is legendary — cheap, abundant, and surprisingly good. But the real dining action is on the higher floors, where you'll find everything from high-end Japanese and Korean restaurants to casual Filipino comfort food. The variety is one of the mall's biggest strengths.
Glorietta is also known for its art installations. The central park and the walkways between towers frequently feature sculptures, temporary exhibitions, and seasonal decorations. It's not a museum, but the effort to integrate art into the shopping experience is noticeable and appreciated. If you're visiting during the holiday season, the decorations are worth a dedicated trip. They go all out, and the whole complex becomes a kind of indoor theme park.
Updated on Jun 17, 2026 by George Gemson