FIRST TIME AT OPUS MALL

It was my first time visiting Opus Mall.

I didn’t know its actual name before, but I definitely knew the spot—mostly because of that huge, super bright LED billboard I always see when crossing the Ortigas flyover on my way home. To be honest, I never paid the mall much attention; all I knew was that the flyover gets really dark around 11 p.m., and sometimes that billboard is the only thing lighting up the area… usually flashing extremely bright images of topless, muscle-bound men.

Anyway, it turns out to be a nice alternative for people who want to avoid the crowds and traffic along EDSA when heading to Robinsons Galleria. The place also gives off Podium vibes, with all its high-end stores. I mean, I didn’t even spot a single Starbucks in the main building—they have the fancier version of Coffee Beanery instead.

We went on a Sunday, had lunch at Olive Garden, and “studied” at St. Ali Coffee. I like that most of the restaurants are bistro-style, meaning a lot of coffee shops also serve alcohol. At Olive Garden, I tried the Italian Rum Punch—it was okay. I also got lost in the parking area, but I’m chalking that up to it being my first time there. At least the place is well-lit.

If there’s a downside, it’s that there aren’t a lot of hobby shops, and the supermarket isn’t very big. I was even looking for octopus meat, but they didn’t have any. Still, if you just want to stroll around, Opus Mall is a pretty good place to hang out. I can definitely see myself spending a few hours in some random café, just blogging.