Parkmall & Times Square Cebu: A Student-Friendly Local Mall Guide (2025 Edition)

️️ Parkmall & Times Square Cebu: A Student-Friendly Local Mall Guide (2025 Edition)

When most people think of Cebu’s shopping scene, flashy giants like SM Seaside or Ayala Center usually come to mind. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed, budget-friendly, and community-oriented alternative—Parkmall and Times Square Cebu in Mandaue are hidden gems worth exploring.

Just about 15 to 20 minutes from Lahug by taxi or Grab, these two local malls offer a refreshing contrast to the crowded, high-end shopping centers. They combine convenience, charm, and affordability in ways that make them perfect for ESL students, digital nomads, and local families alike.

️ Parkmall is known for its wide-open layout, pet-friendly environment, affordable wellness clinics, and diverse mix of local boutiques and food stalls. It’s not your typical air-conditioned mega mall—instead, it embraces a more outdoorsy, lifestyle-focused vibe. Whether you’re getting a haircut, having your phone fixed, eating ₱100 silog meals, or joining a weekend Zumba session, Parkmall makes everyday life feel a bit more social and laid-back.

Just next door, Times Square Cebu is a newer, compact commercial complex with modern eateries, KTV bars, milk tea shops, and spa services. It has quickly become a go-to hangout spot for students from nearby schools and workers from BPO companies in Mandaue. It’s also a top pick for those looking to unwind in the evening—without venturing too far or spending too much.

Whether you’re a student on a budget, a weekend explorer, or just someone craving a more authentic, local Cebuano experience, Parkmall and Times Square deserve a spot on your must-visit list in 2025. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get there, what to eat, where to shop, and why it’s a surprisingly fun alternative to Cebu’s big-brand malls.

How to Access Parkmall & Times Square Cebu

Easy, Quick, and Budget-Friendly from 3D ACADEMY

Both Parkmall and Times Square Cebu are located in Mandaue City, just across the bridge from Cebu City proper. They’re right next to each other, forming a convenient two-in-one destination for shopping, dining, and relaxation. Getting there from 3D ACADEMY (in Lahug) is simple and affordable.

Address

• Parkmall: Ouano Avenue, Mandaue Reclamation Area, Mandaue City

• Times Square Cebu: Mantawi International Drive, beside City Times Square 2, Mandaue City

• Google Maps

Travel Time

• By Taxi or Grab: 15–20 minutes (depending on traffic)

• Estimated Fare: ₱120–₱160

• Pro Tip: Avoid rush hour (7–9AM, 5–7PM) for faster travel.

Best Transport Options

✅ Grab or Taxi

• The fastest and most comfortable way to get there

• Available 24/7 from Lahug or JY Square

• Recommended for first-time visitors

✅ Jeepney (Budget Option)

• Look for jeepneys heading to “Mandaue” or “Parkmall” from Ayala Terminal or SM City Cebu

• Fare: ₱15–₱25

• May require one transfer if coming from Lahug

‍♂️ Walking Between the Two Malls

• Parkmall and Times Square are just 2–3 minutes apart on foot

• Safe, well-lit, and often crowded with other students and locals

• You can easily mall-hop for food, shopping, or even spa services

Dining at Parkmall & Times Square Cebu (2025 Edition)

Affordable, Local, and Surprisingly Diverse

While Ayala and IT Park often steal the spotlight for Cebu’s food scene, Parkmall and Times Square offer a more relaxed, budget-friendly alternative that caters especially well to students, local families, and casual diners. From sizzling Filipino BBQ to ramen, all-you-can-eat buffets, and dessert spots, this area proves that great food doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.

Top Dining Spots at Parkmall

Mang Inasal – Filipino BBQ Comfort

• The go-to place for grilled chicken and unlimited rice meals.

• Most meals under ₱150, perfect for student lunches.

Orange Brutus – Cebu’s Homegrown Fast Food

• Known for its burger steak and chocolate shakes.

• A nostalgic favorite for many locals, with student-friendly prices.

Chowking / Greenwich / Red Ribbon / Goldilocks

• Classic Filipino-style chains serving Chinese rice bowls, pizza, pasta, and pastries.

• Great for quick, consistent meals and light snacks.

Kogi-Q – Korean BBQ Buffet

• ₱399 for unlimited pork, beef, and side dishes.

• Very popular on weekends—ideal for groups and birthday celebrations.

Choobi Choobi – Seafood Feast

• Famous for “Shrimp in a Bag,” a hands-on dining experience.

• Great seafood options in the ₱200–₱400 range.

Dessert Factory / Buko Bar / Thirsty

• Dessert lovers will enjoy shakes, halo-halo, and traditional Filipino sweets.

• Chill spots to cool down after a long day of classes or malling.

Times Square Cebu Food Guide

Times Square 1, 2, and 3 are all within walking distance, but most of the dining action happens in Times Square 2, a semi-open-air complex that comes alive especially in the evenings.

Tokyo Table – Ultimate Fusion Buffet

• A premium buffet with Japanese, Korean, Filipino, and Western cuisine.

• For ₱800+, you get sushi, yakiniku, pasta, tempura, and desserts—perfect for special occasions.

Mooon Café – Mexican-Filipino Vibes

• Colorful décor meets fusion cuisine—quesadillas, tacos, and Filipino spaghetti.

• Mains in the ₱250 range; great for group lunches or dinner dates.

Ramen Yushoken / Ramen Kurado – Authentic Japanese Ramen

• Rich tonkotsu broth and hand-crafted noodles.

• Around ₱350 per bowl, but well worth it for ramen enthusiasts.

Coffee Factory / Bo’s Coffee – Study & Chill Spots

• Cozy cafés with free Wi-Fi, charging ports, and a quiet ambiance.

• Ideal for studying, working remotely, or casual meetings.

Mr. A Bar & Resto – Rooftop Local Dining

• Enjoy Filipino comfort food with a view—lechon kawali, sisig, grilled chicken, and more.

• Occasional acoustic performances create a chill nighttime atmosphere.

Street Food Alley (Times Square)

• Affordable eats like BBQ skewers, banana fritters (turon), and kamote fries.

• Perfect for a Cebu-style food crawl—most items under ₱50.

‍ Why Students Love Dining Here

• Budget-Friendly: Many meals are in the ₱100–₱200 range.

• Variety: From quick eats to buffets, there’s something for every appetite.

• Less Crowded: Compared to Ayala or SM, it’s more relaxed and walkable.

• Mood Change: A good way to mentally switch gears from school to leisure time.

Shopping at Parkmall & Times Square Cebu (2025 Edition)

From Essentials to Unusual Finds

While Parkmall and Times Square aren’t luxury malls like Ayala Center or SM Seaside, they shine in another way: convenience, value, and local charm. Whether you’re a student shopping for essentials, a digital nomad looking for tech accessories, or a weekend explorer hunting for gifts, these malls deliver in a practical, affordable, and sometimes surprising way.

Inside Parkmall: Daily Needs + Local Surprises

Metro Supermarket

• A full-service grocery store with student-friendly pricing.

• Offers everything from fresh produce and snacks to toiletries and prepaid SIM cards.

• Promo bundles for instant noodles, rice, and canned goods are perfect for dorm life.

Watsons

• Popular for personal care items, skincare, and medicine.

• Known for ₱99 beauty bundles and discounts for loyalty cardholders.

Penshoppe / Bench / Oxygen

• Local fashion brands offering casual wear, accessories, and backpacks.

• Affordable and often on sale—great for everyday wear.

Surplus Shop

• Branded overruns and discounted clothing from Japan, Korea, and the U.S.

• A favorite among bargain hunters.

DIY / Handyman / Ace Express

• Tools, home goods, school supplies, and even small appliances.

• Ideal if you’re living long-term in Cebu and need basic dorm or condo items.

MR. DIY / Japan Home Centre

• ₱88 store-style finds: cute stationery, kitchen goods, and mini organizers.

• Popular with budget shoppers and lovers of Japanese-style items.

Pet Lovers Center / Veterinary Clinics

• If you’re a pet owner, Parkmall is Cebu’s most pet-friendly mall.

• You’ll find grooming salons, pet cafes, and animal healthcare options on-site.

Level 2 Bargain Finds: Local Stalls & “Secret Market” Vibes

The second floor of Parkmall is known for its maze of small local shops and bargain stalls. While many of the items here are unbranded—or even imitation versions of popular brands—they offer affordable choices for fashion and lifestyle goods.

What You’ll Find:

• Sneakers & Slides that resemble Nike, Adidas, or Fila styles for under ₱500

• T-Shirts and Hoodies with trendy prints, anime logos, or streetwear aesthetics

• Accessories Galore: ₱20 earrings, ₱50 phone grips, and ₱99 backpacks

• Cosmetic Knockoffs that imitate K-beauty and J-beauty packaging

Why It’s Popular:

• Cheap Prices: Ideal for students on a tight budget or looking for quick wardrobe upgrades

• Low Commitment: You can experiment with new styles without spending much

• Cultural Experience: Haggling is sometimes welcomed, and shopkeepers are friendly

Note: Items here are not genuine branded goods, but if you’re just looking for functionality or fun fashion, it’s a great stop.

Times Square Cebu: Niche Finds & Lifestyle Goods

Times Square is less about big chains and more about independent boutiques, specialty stores, and pop-up stalls. Here’s what to expect:

Gadget Hub & Repair Kiosks

• Accessories for smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

• Offers quick screen repairs and cheap chargers—perfect for students.

Anime & K-Pop Stores

• Fan-favorite outlets selling posters, merch, light sticks, and albums.

• Great for gifts or decorating your dorm room.

Ukay-Ukay (Thrift Shops)

• Gently used clothes, bags, and shoes—many imported from Korea or Japan.

• Eco-friendly and budget-conscious shopping option.

Stationery & Art Supply Stalls

• Cute notebooks, colored pens, sketch pads, and more.

• Perfect for journaling, studying, or school projects.

Fitness & Wellness Stores

• Small stalls selling yoga mats, jump ropes, sportswear, and local supplements.

• Often cheaper than big-box stores.

Why Shop at Parkmall & Times Square?

• Everything in One Trip: From rice and shampoo to fashion and pet food.

• Budget-Conscious Options: Ideal for students and long-term expats.

• Less Overwhelming: No endless escalators or confusing layouts.

• Local Flavor: Supports Cebuano entrepreneurs and artisans.

Entertainment at Parkmall & Times Square Cebu (2025 Edition)

While Parkmall and Times Square Cebu aren’t as flashy as SM or Ayala when it comes to entertainment, they offer plenty of affordable and fun activities—especially for students and locals looking for budget-friendly ways to unwind after class.

Mini Cinemas & Movie Nights (Times Square)

Times Square has a few independent movie screening venues that occasionally host Filipino indie films, Korean drama nights, or seasonal events like horror marathons or rom-com specials. Though it’s not a full-scale multiplex, it provides a cozy, casual setting to enjoy a film with friends.

• Pop-up Cinema Events: Follow Parkmall or Times Square Facebook pages for announcements.

• Free Screenings: Some events offer free entry during mall promos or local holidays.

Arcade & Game Zones (Parkmall)

There’s a small arcade area on the ground floor of Parkmall, near the grocery wing. It features a mix of:

• Classic machines like air hockey, basketball, racing games, and claw machines

• Reloadable play cards available at the counter for ₱100–₱300

• Occasional tournaments or e-sport watch parties (especially during Mobile Legends or DOTA finals)

It may be compact, but it’s rarely crowded, making it great for quick breaks between study sessions.

Pet Park & Events (Parkmall Outdoor Area)

Unique to Parkmall is its pet-friendly reputation. It frequently hosts outdoor events like:

• Dog shows & pet adoption fairs

• Weekend pet markets with accessories, food, and grooming stalls

• “Bark in the Park” events, where pet owners and animal lovers gather in the open-air space

Even if you don’t have a pet, these events are a fun and relaxing way to de-stress and meet people.

Live Music & Performances (Times Square Courtyard)

In the evening, Times Square comes alive with:

• Acoustic sets and local band gigs on weekends

• Dance performances by student groups or community artists

• Open mic nights occasionally hosted by local cafes or co-working bars

These performances create a laid-back, social vibe—perfect for grabbing a drink or snack and enjoying live entertainment without spending much.

‍♀️ Open-Air Fitness & Dance Sessions

Parkmall sometimes offers free Zumba, K-pop dance, or yoga classes in its outdoor plaza or covered court. It’s a hit among:

• Fitness-conscious students

• Moms and working professionals in the area

• Anyone who wants to get moving after a day of malling or studying

Check their event boards or Facebook page for weekly schedules.

Wellness & Beauty at Parkmall & Times Square Cebu

If you’re a student in Cebu looking for a quick haircut, a relaxing massage, or budget-friendly beauty treatments, Parkmall and nearby Times Square offer a solid selection of wellness spots—many of which are far more affordable than those in larger malls.

Hair Salons & Barber Shops

Parkmall has a range of no-frills salons and barbers that offer fast service and affordable prices.

• David’s Salon – A national chain offering professional haircuts, color, and styling.

• GQ Barber Shop – Stylish cuts for men, often with student discounts.

• Parkmall Barbers – Local barber shops where you can get a trim for ₱80–₱150.

➡️ Most salons accept walk-ins, and many offer loyalty cards for frequent visitors.

Massage & Spa

Feeling sore after hours of studying or gym workouts? These local massage spots will help you relax without breaking the bank:

• Royal Touch Spa – Traditional hilot and Swedish massage options; 1-hour sessions start at ₱300.

• Nature’s Way Spa – Offers Thai massage and foot reflexology in a calm, clean setting.

• Blind Massage Corner – Staffed by visually impaired therapists and known for quality, affordable massages.

Tip: Most spas are located near the ground-level grocery wing or behind Times Square, and many offer foot massages or combo packages with hot compresses.

Nail & Skin Care

• Nailaholics / Nailandia – Gel polish, nail art, and paraffin treatments.

• Skin Station – Acne treatments, facials, and derma services at student-friendly rates.

• Waxing Zone – Affordable body waxing and eyebrow threading for both men and women.

✨ Some of these services even offer “Happy Hour” rates during weekdays (10am–3pm), perfect for students with free afternoons.

Beauty & Health Stores

You can also find a variety of wellness products at:

• Watsons – Skincare, vitamins, and everyday health essentials.

• Rose Pharmacy – Medicine and basic personal care products.

• Gaisano Beauty Section – Cheap cosmetics and haircare goods (some Korean and Japanese brands included).

Nearby Hotels & Long-Term Stays Around Parkmall and Times Square Cebu

Whether you’re a short-term visitor, a student at a nearby ESL school, or a family visiting Cebu for an extended stay, the area surrounding Parkmall and Times Square Cebu offers a mix of budget-friendly hotels, mid-range accommodations, and even modern residential condos perfect for longer stays.

️ Hotels Within Walking Distance

Big Hotel Cebu

• Location: Across the street from Parkmall

• Highlights: Industrial-chic interiors, spacious rooms, reliable Wi-Fi

• Best For: ESL students, business travelers, and weekenders

• Bonus: Some rooms have kitchenettes for semi-long-term stays

Dohera Hotel

• Location: Around 5 minutes away by taxi or Grab

• Highlights: Pool, gym, and Filipino buffet breakfast

• Best For: Visiting families or students looking for a more complete hotel setup

Allure Hotel & Suites

• Location: A short ride towards J Centre Mall

• Highlights: Quiet, clean, and comfortable mid-range stay

• Best For: Couples or solo travelers who want a peaceful base near both shopping areas and schools

️ Mandani Bay: Luxury Condos by the Waterfront

Just a few minutes away from Parkmall lies Mandani Bay, one of Cebu’s most ambitious residential developments. With stunning views of the Mactan Channel and cutting-edge design, it’s quickly becoming a popular choice for long-term residents, especially expats and digital nomads.

Why Consider Mandani Bay?

• Modern Units: Studio, 1BR, and 2BR units with full kitchens and balconies

• High Security: 24/7 security, guards, and access-controlled towers

• Amenities: Pools, gyms, jogging paths, sky gardens, and retail zones

• Proximity: Just 5–10 minutes from Parkmall, 15–20 minutes to Ayala or IT Park

• Ideal For: Families staying long-term, students with higher budgets, or couples looking to settle in Cebu

Some ESL students choose to rent Mandani Bay units for 3–6 months and commute to nearby schools—enjoying both independence and upscale comfort.

Why Parkmall & Times Square Cebu Stand Out for 3D ACADEMY Students

Unlike the glitzy mega-malls of Cebu like SM Seaside or Ayala Center, Parkmall and Times Square Cebu offer a different kind of charm—a genuinely local and budget-friendly experience that resonates especially well with 3D ACADEMY students looking to balance fun and frugality.

Local Vibe You Can Feel

Walk through Parkmall’s semi-open corridors and you’ll immediately sense the difference:

• Pop-up stalls selling handmade crafts and Cebuano snacks

• Pet-friendly walkways hosting weekend adoption events

• Free Zumba and yoga classes held in the public plaza

• Outdoor bazaars offering regional food and artisanal products

This isn’t just a shopping mall—it’s a community hub, where local culture is alive and thriving.

Wallet-Friendly for Student Life

From ₱99 silog meals at Times Square eateries to ₱250 haircuts at local barbershops, everything here is tailored to students on a budget. Even the merchandise—though sometimes “inspired” by major brands—is affordable and varied.

Popular among students:

• Second-hand and knockoff fashion at unbeatable prices

• Cheap but tasty cafeteria-style meals

• Budget-friendly arcades, salons, and massage services

It’s a perfect spot for grabbing essentials, relaxing between study sessions, or just enjoying a laid-back weekend with classmates.

Why We Recommend It to 3D ACADEMY Students

• ✅ Only 10–15 minutes away from 3D ACADEMY by Grab or taxi

• ✅ No need to dress up—super casual and friendly vibe

• ✅ Great place to practice English with locals in real settings

• ✅ Ideal for cheap meals, grocery runs, or last-minute school supplies

• ✅ Close to Mandani Bay, if you’re considering local condos or longer stays

If you’re studying in Cebu and want a break from the polished, tourist-heavy malls, Parkmall and Times Square deliver an authentic, budget-friendly, and convenient alternative—perfect for ESL students living like locals.

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