North Ave Side Quest: Why You Should Never Choose Between Trinoma & SM North Restaurants
- LIKAA
- Nov 12, 2025
- 6 min read
Only hitting one mall on Manila’s North Avenue is a major misstep. The insider power move is knowing that Trinoma and SM North Edsa are just a 14-minute walk apart. Two distinct worlds connected by a single bridge. This bustling area connects major transport lines - from MRT and buses to UV Express vans and jeepneys - making it one of the most accessible and convenient destinations in the metro. Mastering this massive Quezon City dining complex lies in understanding the distinct genre each mall specializes in. The curated, vibe-driven scene at Trinoma restaurants is for those who appreciate a great meal in a sleek, modern setting. The sprawling, electric universe of SM North restaurants offers a gritty, festival-like energy, especially under the stars at the Sky Garden.
Ready to play the field? Forget choosing sides. It's time to learn when to book a table in one mall and hunt for dessert in the other. Follow along as we break down the essential dining destinations for both scenes.
SM North Restaurants - Massive Food Playground
Pound
UGF/GF/FF CITY CENTER
For a classic American-style diner experience, you have to try Pound. Known for its sleek, modern interiors and cozy ambiance, this spot brings a touch of New York sophistication to Quezon City. Their juicy, handcrafted burgers are the star of the show, paired perfectly with golden fries and creamy milkshakes. Each dish is made with premium ingredients. Don’t forget to try their signature Truffle Burger, it’s a crowd favorite that truly lives up to the hype. Price ranges from ₱100 to ₱200 for starters and salads, while burgers start at ₱220.
Magure Izakaya
THE ANNEX 2ND FLOOR
Magure Japanese Izakaya offers a warm and welcoming escape for lovers of authentic Japanese cuisine. This cozy spot captures the essence of a true izakaya, serving an impressive selection of dishes from flavorful yakitori and crisp tempura to fresh sashimi and creative sushi rolls. Adventurous diners will appreciate their inventive twists like sushi tacos and temaki sushi, which make every meal both interactive and fun. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to pair perfectly with their curated list of sake and Japanese craft beers. The interiors blend traditional and modern touches, creating an atmosphere that’s both stylish and relaxing. Price starts at ₱199.
Manam Comfort Filipino
Second Floor, City Center
For a truly satisfying Filipino meal where every detail is done right, Manam Comfort Filipino at Tinoma is a reliable bet. Come hungry for generous portions of classic dishes, from the perfectly balanced sour notes of their Sinigang to the sizzling, textured crunch of their Sisig. The experience is elevated by a warm, welcoming atmosphere and service that is both genuinely attentive and efficient, ensuring your dining experience is as comfortable and delightful as the food itself. Come hungry for the soulful flavors of the Philippines served with heartfelt hospitality.
24 Chicken
ANNEX, UPPER GROUND FLOOR
This branch of 24 Chicken opened in September, 2025 is already a crowd favorite thanks to the widespread popularity of the chain. Many students know it as the undisputed go-to for that late-night, budget-friendly Korean fried craze we all crave. Sure, the classic soy garlic and spicy yangnyeom are solid, but the real star is the Snow Cheese. That generous blizzard of powdery, savory, and slightly sweet cheese powder over an impossibly crispy piece of chicken is just iconic. Solo meals start at ₱99 while whole chicken is at ₱515, half option is available for ₱269.
Stuff'd
Ground Level, North Tower
Stuff’d is a quick-service spot perfect for a fresh, customizable meal. The menu features four main items: Kebab, Daily Bowl, Burrito, and Quesadilla - each with your choice of Chicken, Beef, or Veggie protein. Stuff’d lets you build your meal your way. Pile on extras like Guacamole, Hummus, or Cheese. Want something lighter but still satisfying? The Daily Bowl or Grain Bowl appeals to many wellness motivated students. Prices range from ₱235 to ₱385.
Karayama
Ground Level, The Block
Karayama is your new spot for legit Japanese karaage. It’s the kind of fried chicken that actually lives up to the hype. We’re talking next-level crunch giving way to seriously juicy, tender chicken every time. Build your own perfect plate with their range of sauces, rice bowls, or set meals, ideal for a quick solo lunch or a low-key feast with friends. Get started with their Karaage set for ₱270, or level up with a rice bowl from ₱315. If you’re into that crisp-and-soft combo, consistency on every visit, and an open kitchen lets you see how the food is prepared, eat here with confidence.
Cabalen - SM North Edsa
Third Floor, City Center
If it’s a buffet restaurant in SM North Edsa that you’re looking for, Cabalen is a solid choice. The weekday all-you-can-eat (and drink) buffet at their SM North branch will only cost you ₱558. It started out as a humble place serving up killer Kapampangan dishes (and Pampanga is the food capital for a reason). Now it's a full-on buffet, so you can load up your plate with all their classic specialties alongside a ton of other Filipino favorites from across the islands. It’s the perfect place to get a real, no-fuss taste of homegrown culinary heritage and fill up your belly at an affordable price.
Trinoma Restaurants - Elevated Eatscape
Gerry's Ayala Trinoma (Gerry's Grill)
North Ave 2nd Level
This is the restaurant you become a "suki" of. In a city full of dining trends, Gerry's Grill stands out as a timeless favorite. It’s the kind of place you return to again and again because it simply never disappoints. Choose a seat on the deck and enjoy well-executed Filipino classics, from sizzling plates of Sisig to deeply flavorful Crispy Lechon Kare-Kare. Unwind with a cold beer and enjoy peaceful and efficient service even on a busy Friday night. More than just a meal, it’s about the reassurance of a flawless experience.
Cyma Greek Taverna
Level 4, North Triangle
Cyma offers a genuine escape from the Trinoma food court. Helmed by the acclaimed Chef Robby Goco, the menu is a celebration of authentic, health-forward cuisine, from the must-try, signature Roka Salata to hearty, paella-inspired Youvetsi and perfectly grilled meats. It’s a place built for long conversations over great food, where the bill reflects the quality but the experience justifies it. A chicken gyro starts at ₱475 if you want to test the waters before dropping too much cash. Many dishes also come in three size portions - solo, share, and family - making it easy to dine your way.
Khao Khai "Thai Chicken House"
Trinoma Food Court
At Khao Khai, you’re still technically in a food court, but the moment you crack into their Gai Tod, something shifts. The plastic chair beneath you feels a little more like a Bangkok street stall. The clatter of trays fades into the distant sound of a tuk-tuk. Bit into a 15-minute vacation for your taste buds, a sentimental journey that proves the most powerful passport is a perfectly grilled chicken, sticky rice, and a killer spicy dipping sauce. It’s the best trip to Thailand you can take without ever losing your seat near the arcade.
Hanamaruken Ramen
2nd Floor Garden
With 2,581 reviews on Google Maps and a rating of 4.8, Hanamaruken Ramen at Trinoma Mall is consistently referred to as “happiness in a bowl.” The ramen is built around a slow-braised pork rib that’s genuinely fall-apart tender and a broth with a deep, unforced richness. The noodles have the right kind of chew, and the entire bowl feels balanced and thoughtfully made. Paired with simple, well-executed sides like crispy karaage or softly torched aburi sushi, it’s a meal that focuses on getting the fundamentals right. Ramen will set you back ₱400-500, and even if you don’t order any sides, you’ll still walk out feeling like you made a solid investment in your well-being.
Walk the Bridge From the Best Restaurant in SM North to Trinoma
So, you're officially out of excuses for a day of eating in QC’s great north. Stop wondering where to eat on a budget? With this guide in your back pocket, the only challenge left is deciding where to start. But before you get lost in the delicious chaos of North Avenue, do yourself a favor and download the Likaa app. For hungry foodies, it’s the best way to uncover affordable spots, join local food chats, and get exclusive coupons. And if you’re a restaurant owner in the area tired of the high commissions from giants like Grab or Foodpanda, Likaa offers a more margin-friendly platform for promotions and direct bookings. Now go on, however your Northside food story unfolds, we hope it’s a tasty one.
