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For over two decades, SM City Cebu in Mabolo has been a central shopping, dining, and entertainment destination for both locals and tourists. Known for its sheer size, accessibility, and budget-friendly stores, it has long been a go-to mall for everyday essentials, movie nights, family outings, and casual dining.
But 2025 marks a turning point.
SM City Cebu is now undergoing a major renovation—a multi-phase transformation that will carry into 2026. While the mall remains fully operational, visitors will notice construction zones and temporary detours as parts of the mall are being modernized. The upgrade aims to elevate the SM experience with more green spaces, international brands, digital conveniences, and lifestyle-focused zones.
A new Lifestyle Wing with open-air dining terraces and café lounges
Revamped cinema complex with luxury recliners and Dolby Atmos sound
A tech-focused zone with digital service hubs and faster Wi-Fi
Expanded fashion and wellness areas, including global brands
Child-friendly spaces and interactive play zones
Better accessibility with wider walkways and smart parking systems
Whether you’re a budget-conscious student from 3D ACADEMY, a digital nomad looking for affordable cafes, or a local Cebuanos doing their weekly shopping, SM City Cebu promises to become even more versatile, comfortable, and globally appealing by late 2026.
Stay tuned as we walk you through how to access the mall, what to expect during renovations, and which shops and dining spots remain must-visits in 2025!
Address:
SM City Cebu, North Reclamation Area, Juan Luna Avenue, Mabolo, Cebu City, Philippines
Google Maps: SM City Cebu – Google Maps
SM City Cebu is one of the largest malls in the entire Visayas and a staple in every Cebuano’s weekly routine. Conveniently located in the Mabolo district near the North Reclamation Area, it sits between Cebu Business Park (Ayala) and the port area—making it highly accessible from most parts of the city, including Lahug, where 3D ACADEMY is located.
Travel Time: Approximately 10–15 minutes by taxi or Grab (depends on traffic)
Estimated Fare: ₱100–₱150
Suggested Route:
Salinas Drive → Gorordo Avenue → Escario Street → Archbishop Reyes Ave → Mabolo (via Juan Luna Avenue)
Grab Taxi or Car: Most convenient, air-conditioned, and safe.
Traditional Taxi: Readily available at JY Square or in front of 3D ACADEMY.
Jeepney (budget option):
Look for jeepneys heading to “SM” or “North Reclamation.”
You may need to transfer once, usually at Ayala or Mabolo. Total fare: ₱15–₱25.
If you’re being picked up or coming with friends:
Main Entrance (along Juan Luna Ave): Best for direct drop-offs
South Entrance (Near Radisson Blu): Often less crowded, convenient for Grab pickups
Taxi Bay: Located near the North Wing
One of the few malls in Cebu where everything is under one roof—groceries, salons, cinema, restaurants, even clinics.
Bigger and more budget-friendly compared to Ayala, making it ideal for students.
Plenty of indoor space for walking, relaxing, or meeting friends—great on rainy days.
SM City Cebu, located in the heart of Mabolo’s North Reclamation Area, isn’t just one of the biggest malls in Cebu—it’s a local institution. With more than 600 stores spread across multiple levels and wings, this mall is ideal for students, travelers, and families alike. It offers a comfortable shopping experience with budget-friendly options, international brands, and hidden gems you might not find elsewhere.
In 2025, SM City Cebu is undergoing major renovations to improve layout, lighting, and shopper experience. While the Northwing remains fully operational, the main building is gradually transforming into a more modern, airier, and energy-efficient complex, with full upgrades expected to be completed by mid-2026. But don’t worry—there’s still plenty to see, shop, and enjoy today.
Whether you’re dressing up for a school event or just want comfy loungewear, SM’s wide range of clothing stores caters to all fashion needs.
International & Regional Chains:
UNIQLO – Timeless basics, activewear, and seasonal collections.
H&M – Trendy fast fashion for men, women, and kids.
Penshoppe / Bench / Oxygen / Folded & Hung – Filipino brands that keep up with Korean and Western styles.
Surplus by SM – Hidden treasures, overstock items, and deals from global retailers.
Streetwear & Youth Fashion:
Bershka (Northwing) – Urban-inspired style for Gen Z
Giordano / Bossini – Casual chic for all ages
Memo / Regatta – Smart-casual picks perfect for ESL school presentations or casual dates
From budget sandals to collector sneakers, SM City Cebu has it all.
Nike / Adidas / Puma / Converse / Vans – Full collections plus Cebu-limited editions
Crocs / Havaianas / World Balance – Rain-proof, travel-friendly styles
Skechers / Merrell / Fitflop – Great for walking-heavy tourists or daily student commutes
Payless ShoeSource – Budget-friendly picks and kid-friendly shoes
Accessory Stores:
Charles & Keith / Secosana / Parfois – Chic bags and wallets for students and professionals
Silverworks / Pandora / Unisilver – Jewelry from casual to elegant
Watch Republic / Timex / Casio – Watches and smart bands for both function and fashion
If you need to buy or replace electronics, SM City Cebu has one of the most comprehensive tech zones in the city.
Flagship & Specialty Stores:
Power Mac Center / Samsung Store / Huawei Experience Shop – Phones, tablets, laptops, and accessories
CD-R King / Octagon / Silicon Valley – Cables, chargers, earphones, hard drives at local prices
DataBlitz – Gaming consoles, PC accessories, and latest games
GameXtreme / Gadget Hunter – Pop culture gadgets, anime merch, and mobile accessories
Bonus: Most tech stores offer student discounts or bundle deals on weekdays.
From setting up your dorm to finding a housewarming gift, these shops cover all your lifestyle needs.
SM Department Store (SM Store) – All-in-one shop for clothes, shoes, school supplies, bags, cosmetics, and more.
Miniso / Mumuso / Yoyoso – Kawaii-style mini goods, stationery, tumblers, phone cases, and plushies
Daiso Japan / Japan Home Centre – Japanese-style budget items (₱88–₱188 average)
Ace Hardware / True Value – Tools, lighting, kitchenware, dorm fixers
For kitchen and bathroom needs:
Watsons / South Star Drug / Mercury Drug – Toiletries, vitamins, and skincare
Rustan’s Supermarket / Savemore (in SM Hypermarket) – Local and imported groceries
Perfect for students at 3D ACADEMY, many of whom need affordable notebooks, pens, or novels to unwind.
National Bookstore – The largest bookstore in the Philippines. Stationery, fiction, English grammar books, and IELTS prep materials
Booksale – Second-hand and discounted books—great for manga lovers and self-learners
SM Supplies Section (in SM Store) – Cheap but reliable school and office supplies
SM City Cebu is family-friendly, with entire wings dedicated to children’s needs.
Toys “R” Us / Toy Kingdom – Toys for every age, board games, puzzles
Mothercare / Baby Company – Baby clothes, cribs, bath essentials
Kids’ fashion – Gingersnaps, OshKosh, Periwinkle
From budget-friendly brands to Korean skincare obsessions, you’ll find it all.
The Face Shop / Innisfree / Nature Republic / Etude House – K-beauty favorites
The Body Shop / Bath & Body Works / Lush – Natural and scented indulgences
Watsons Beauty Section – Local & imported makeup and skincare
Pro Tip: Look for seasonal bundles and student promos, especially during SM’s monthly 3-day sales.
A practical zone for international students and long-term travelers.
Smart / Globe / DITO kiosks – Prepaid SIM cards, mobile plans, and internet services
Western Union / Palawan Express / MLhuillier – Money transfer and bills payment
Gadget repair kiosks – Phone screen repair, battery replacement, etc.
Budget Flexibility: Great mix of luxury and low-cost finds
Massive Variety: More stores than Ayala Center Cebu
One-Stop Convenience: Electronics, groceries, fashion, and even clinics under one roof
Student Perks: Frequent mall-wide sales, student pricing, and bundle deals
Nearby Dorm Options: Many ESL students choose to stay near SM due to price and accessibility
SM City Cebu isn’t just a shopping haven—it’s a food lover’s playground, too. With over 150 dining options ranging from international chains to local street food flavors, this mall is one of the best places in Cebu to eat your way across cultures and cuisines. Whether you’re a student looking for a ₱99 rice meal or a family enjoying Sunday lunch, there’s something for every palate and budget.
As soon as you enter from the main entrances, you’ll be greeted with familiar favorites perfect for quick meals or takeaway.
Jollibee / McDonald’s / KFC – Filipino and international fast food staples
Chowking / Mang Inasal / Greenwich – Affordable Pinoy rice meals, noodles, and pizza
Bonchon Chicken – Korean-style fried chicken with soy garlic glaze
Tokyo Tokyo – Japanese rice bowls, tempura, and bento sets
Krispy Kreme / Dunkin’ / Mister Donut – Sweet snacks and coffee breaks
Famous Belgian Waffles / Potato Corner / Nacho King – Food cart faves for a light bite
✅ Perfect for mall-goers who want fast, reliable meals.
This floor is home to sit-down restaurants and cafés popular with students, office workers, and groups.
Gerry’s Grill / Kuya J / Hukad – Filipino comfort food like lechon kawali, sinigang, and sisig
Max’s Restaurant – “The house that fried chicken built,” with pancit and halo-halo
S&R New York Style Pizza – Huge slices, thick crust, and cheesy overload
Army Navy / Yellow Cab Pizza – Burgers, burritos, and thin-crust pies
Café Laguna / Pancake House / Conti’s – Filipino-Western fusion and comfort fare
Starbucks / Bo’s Coffee / The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf – Great for studying or chilling with friends
☕ Tip: Most cafés offer Wi-Fi and charge ports, perfect for digital nomads and ESL students.
Located near the Supermarket and Timezone, this food court is a budget-friendly hotspot popular with mall employees and students.
Dimsum Break – Cebu-style siomai, spring rolls, and rice toppings
Inasal Republic / Chikaan Express – Chicken BBQ, adobo, and local vegetable dishes
Bacolod Chicken Inasal / Paotsin – Grilled dishes and rice toppings with green sauce
Turks / Shawarma Shack – Affordable wraps and beef rice bowls
Sisig Hooray / Tapsi Time – Filipino breakfast plates with egg and garlic rice
Thirsty / Fruitas / Zagu – Fresh fruit shakes and bubble tea
Features: Communal seating, clean restrooms nearby, self-service trays
Meals: ₱99–₱200 range with drinks included
Renovated in late 2024, this modern food hall is Instagrammable, more spacious, and airier than the old food court. It features international concepts, digital menus, and more upscale but still affordable meal options.
Pepper Lunch Express – Japanese sizzling plates at budget prices
Bonchon Plus – Expanded menu with Korean rice meals and pasta
Bento Box / Takoyaki Treats / Tempura King – Japanese street food revival
Ramen Daisho / Katsu House – Rich tonkotsu and breaded pork cutlets
Mr. Kimbob / K-Town BBQ – Bibimbap, tteokbokki, and kimchi rice
La Mien / Wangfu Express – Chinese noodle soups and dumplings
Burger Factory / Big Guys Pizza – Towering burgers and sharing-size pizza
Milk Tea Labs / Infinitea / Chatime – Must-have drinks for Gen Z
Bonus Features:
QR code ordering at select stalls
Charging stations at corner tables
Vegan and halal-friendly options available
Outside the air-conditioned zones lies the Northwing’s alfresco dining area—ideal for dinner dates and group meals during cool evenings.
Seafood Island – Boodle fight platters with grilled squid, mussels, and rice
Lantaw Native Restaurant – Elevated local fare with garden seating
Dimsum Break Premium / Majestic Chinese Cuisine – Dumplings, roasted meats, and soups
Cafe Georg / Lemon Grass – Health-conscious meals and fusion flavors
Ilaputi / The Lemon Cafe – Contemporary Filipino-Western fusion with a creative twist
La Vie Parisienne (Branch) – French bakery, cheese plates, and wines
Some nights include acoustic performances and happy hour promos.
Most restaurants participate in:
GrabFood / Foodpanda
In-house delivery from SM Eats counters
Online ordering via SM Malls Online App
Pickup counters are now located near the Back Entrance (PUJ terminal side) for ease of access.
✅ Over 150 food options across 5 floors and 2 food courts
✅ From ₱99 silog meals to ₱999 steak platters
✅ Frequent mall-wide food festivals and seasonal promos
✅ Mix of local flavors and global brands
✅ Clean dining zones, child-friendly seating, and accessibility for seniors
SM City Cebu is not only a shopping and dining haven—it’s also a bustling entertainment hub that caters to families, students, and tourists alike. Whether you’re catching a movie, competing at the arcade, or bringing your kids to a play area, there’s something for everyone under one roof.
Completely renovated in recent years, SM Cinema now offers a premium viewing experience on Level 3 of the Northwing.
Cinema 1–6: Standard theaters with modern seating and enhanced sound systems
Director’s Club: Lounge-style cinema with reclining seats, private ambiance, and gourmet snacks delivered to your seat
Now Showing: The latest Hollywood blockbusters, Filipino films, Korean dramas, and anime features—often with English subtitles
Student Discounts: Available on weekdays with valid student ID (up to 20% off)
Online Booking: Use the SM Cinema App or GMovies to reserve seats and avoid queues
Note: The cinema lobby area now includes café stalls, ice cream kiosks, and a new lounge space perfect for waiting or meeting friends.
One of Cebu’s largest and most popular arcades, Timezone remains a favorite hangout spot for teens and families.
Classic Games: Basketball, air hockey, claw machines, and driving simulators
E-Games Section: PlayStation booths, rhythm games, and VR headsets
Prize Zone: Exchange tickets for toys, gadgets, and K-pop merch
Top-Up Cards: Reloadable game cards available at kiosks, with weekday bonuses
Best For:
ESL students needing a quick study break
Friends on casual meet-ups
Weekend family fun
Kids’ Paradise (Level 2, Southwing): Indoor playground with obstacle courses, ball pits, and toddler-safe areas
Toy Kingdom (Level 2): Shop for the latest toys while kids enjoy in-store demo zones
Weekend Events: Puppet shows, meet-and-greet with mascots, and kids’ art workshops held at the Activity Center (Ground Floor)
Located in the center of the ground floor, the SM Activity Center is a focal point for weekly and seasonal events.
Cultural Performances: Live dances and music to celebrate local festivals
Seasonal Markets: Christmas bazaars, Valentine’s pop-ups, and summer clearance sales
Career Fairs & Expos: Opportunities for students and jobseekers to connect with employers
K-Pop & Anime Events: Mini conventions and cosplay meetups, especially popular with young adults
Tip: Follow SM City Cebu’s official Facebook page for updated schedules and ticket info.
Close to School: Just 10 minutes away by taxi or Grab
Affordable Fun: Game cards for as low as ₱200, weekday movie tickets at ₱300
Relaxation: Air-conditioned lounges and cinemas offer a great escape from the heat or rain
Wi-Fi Friendly: Many areas offer free access, especially near cafés and lounges
SM City Cebu is not just a shopping and entertainment hotspot—it’s also a rejuvenating wellness destination where you can relax, refresh, and take care of your personal grooming. From massage services to hair salons, beauty bars, and nail spas, the mall provides everything you need for self-care and well-being.
Serenity Spa Express (Level 2, near Watsons)
Quick chair massages and full-body options ideal for students and office workers on a break.
Blind Massage Therapy (Level 3, beside Timezone)
Staffed by visually impaired therapists, this place offers affordable and therapeutic massages—from ₱350 for one hour. A meaningful and budget-friendly way to recharge.
Nuat Thai Cebu (Northwing Annex)
Famous for Thai massages and reflexology. The interiors are calming, and the service is consistent.
David’s Salon / Bench Fix (Level 2, Main Mall)
Trusted names for haircuts, coloring, and styling. Walk-ins welcome, budget-friendly packages available.
Lay Bare / Brow Lounge (Level 3)
Specialized in waxing, threading, and brow shaping. Hygienic and professional, perfect for both men and women.
Nailaholics / Posh Nails (Terraces)
Foot spas, gel polish, paraffin treatments, and more. Ideal for a weekend pampering session.
Watsons / Healthy Options (Level 2)
Pharmacy, supplements, skincare, and organic items. Great for immune boosters and daily essentials.
R.O.X. (Recreational Outdoor Exchange)
Outdoor and fitness gear for yoga, hiking, and gym training. Carries eco-friendly mats and activewear.
Tip: Many wellness services accept online bookings via Facebook or GrabMart. Pre-book for weekends!
Whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, or a student’s family visiting Cebu, the area around SM City Cebu offers a range of accommodations—from budget-friendly rooms to upscale hotels. Here are the best picks for convenience and comfort:
Location: Directly connected to SM City Cebu via covered walkway
Highlights: Luxury service, panoramic sea views, top-notch breakfast buffet
Best For: Business travelers, family vacations, or upscale weekend getaways
Location: Across the street from SM’s Northwing
Highlights: Clean, modern rooms with breakfast included; very affordable
Best For: Budget-conscious guests who want walkable access to the mall
Location: A 5-minute taxi ride away in Mandaue
Highlights: Industrial-themed rooms, close to Parkmall and J Centre Mall
Best For: Students attending events in both Cebu and Mandaue areas
Location: Near Cebu Business Park, about 10 minutes by Grab
Highlights: Japanese-style business hotel with basic but clean amenities
Best For: Solo travelers, digital nomads, or those familiar with Japanese service standards
Location: Scattered nearby in Mabolo and Mandaue
Highlights: Basic amenities, ideal for short stays or backpackers
Best For: Students and travelers who prioritize cost over luxury
Note: Many of these hotels offer airport transfers, in-room dining, and same-day laundry services—ideal for students or families staying a week or more.
SM City Cebu, one of the Philippines’ largest and oldest SM Supermalls outside Metro Manila, is currently undergoing a major multi-phase renovation designed to modernize its facilities, improve shopper experience, and better compete with newer lifestyle malls like Ayala Center Cebu and SM Seaside.
Here’s a detailed look at what’s changing—and why it matters to both locals and visitors in 2025 and beyond.
✅ New Exterior Design: The iconic blue-and-gray facade has been replaced with a sleeker, glass-heavy look featuring vertical garden walls, LED-lit signage, and shaded canopies at entrances.
✅ Main Entrance Renovation: Wider doors, better lighting, and air curtains for temperature control were added.
✅ Accessibility Upgrades: Additional ramps and automated doors for elderly and PWD shoppers.
Re-zoning of Shopping Areas: Popular international fashion brands have been relocated to a new “Global Fashion Avenue”, while the older sections are being reworked for more lifestyle and wellness spaces.
Improved Lighting & Ventilation: LED lighting, higher ceilings, and improved air-conditioning make the indoor areas brighter, cooler, and more spacious.
Modern Flooring & Restrooms: All restrooms now feature sensor-based taps, hand dryers, and child-friendly amenities.
️ Chill Zones: New public seating areas with charging stations and indoor plants offer a more relaxed environment for students and elderly visitors.
New Food Court on Level 3: Opened in early 2025, this modern food hall features open kitchens, natural lighting, and a more upscale aesthetic aimed at younger crowds and tourists.
Restaurant Strip at North Wing: Under renovation to host mid- to high-end restaurants like Samgyupsalamat, Ippudo Ramen, and Frankie’s New York Buffalo Wings by Q4 2025.
️ Local Food Kiosks Area: Reorganized with new signage, QR-code ordering systems, and social-media-ready interiors.
SM Cinema Upgrade (Level 3): Recliner seats, Dolby Atmos sound, and 4K laser projectors are being installed in all cinemas by late 2025.
️ Timezone Arcade Expansion: More VR attractions and e-sports tournament zones being added.
Activity Hall Redesign: Will host live performances, school exhibits, and weekend markets with movable stages and LED panels.
♀️ New Lifestyle Wing: A full floor is being developed exclusively for salons, spas, fitness centers, and medical clinics, including walk-in dental and derma services.
Green Roof & Sky Garden: Planned rooftop garden with jogging paths, meditation areas, and al fresco cafés—similar to SM Seaside Sky Park.
More Study-Friendly Spaces: Chill zones and Wi-Fi cafés make it easier to study outside the classroom.
Greater Convenience: Group dining, grocery runs, beauty services, and even minor medical consultations—all in one place.
Modern & Safe: With new CCTV, wider walkways, and modern restrooms, the mall is now more comfortable and secure for international visitors.
SM City Cebu continues to be one of the most accessible, complete, and student-friendly destinations in Cebu—and it’s especially convenient for those studying at 3D ACADEMY.
Just 10–15 Minutes Away
Located in the North Reclamation Area, SM City Cebu is a short ride from Lahug (where 3D ACADEMY is based). Whether you take a taxi, Grab, or even a multicab, travel time typically ranges from 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. It’s ideal for after-class shopping, weekend relaxation, or quick errands.
All-in-One Experience
From global fashion brands to local souvenir shops, from quick eats to fine dining, SM Cebu packs everything into one massive, easy-to-navigate space. Its recent renovations (expected to be fully completed by late 2025 or early 2026) bring a fresh, modern experience that rivals Ayala Center Cebu—while often being less crowded.
Dining for Every Budget
Whether you’re a student watching your expenses or a tourist looking to treat yourself, SM’s food courts, mid-range chains, and upscale restaurants give you flexibility. Plus, the air-conditioned spaces and clean seating areas make even the busiest lunch rush comfortable.
Entertainment & Self-Care
Need a break from your studies? Watch a movie in their upgraded SM Cinema on Level 3, or de-stress at the Timezone arcade, spa centers, or nail salons. Everything you need to reset your mind and body is under one roof.
Great Hotel Choices Nearby
For families visiting from abroad or students staying temporarily, nearby hotels like Radisson Blu and Bayfront Hotel offer reliable, high-quality accommodations just steps away from the mall.
Wi-Fi & Student Perks
Many cafés and public areas offer free Wi-Fi, and some stores provide student discounts—making it a practical choice for ESL learners who want to study or socialize outside the classroom.
✨ Whether you’re grocery shopping, grabbing Korean fried chicken with classmates, enjoying a movie night, or getting a quick haircut before Monday classes—SM City Cebu is not just a mall, it’s an extension of student life in Cebu.
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