Discover where to shop and what to buy at Metro Manila’s best delis and gourmet grocers.
Dinner decisions rarely begin in the kitchen—they begin in the cart. Between crowded aisles, chilled counters, and curated shelves, grocery runs subtly shape the meals we make and the moments we savor. The same holds true when hosting—a well-stocked pantry can turn a last-minute gathering into something memorable. In a city as fast and flavorful as Metro Manila, knowing where to shop well often matters more than knowing how to cook well.
The good news? There are delis and specialty shops that balance quality and cost, flavor and accessibility. From freezer-friendly finds to ready-made indulgences, these gourmet grocers make it easier to eat well without overspending—or overthinking.
Here’s where to go—and what to get—when you’re craving hearty, wholesome, and happily affordable eats:
1. Epicurious: Pantry picks with a practical pulse
If your kitchen leans global and your cravings lean curious, Epicurious is a must-stop for gourmet groceries that won’t drain your daily budget. Known for its wide assortment of imported staples, sauces, and frozen favorites, this deli makes weekday cooking feel worldly—and wonderfully doable.
What to buy: Their frozen ravioli and tortellini for instant pasta nights, bottled pestos and pomodoro sauces for quick upgrades, and cured meats you can turn into effortless charcuterie boards for casual hosting
2. Santís: Trusted traditions, table-ready treats
A household name for heritage flavors, Santís Delicatessen is where nostalgia meets nourishment. Known for premium cold cuts and freezer-friendly finds, this deli is perfect for families who love flavor without the long prep.
What to buy: Their roast beef and honey ham for hearty sandwiches, ready-to-heat lasagnas for busy nights, and sausages that turn simple breakfasts into satisfying spreads
3. Terry’s Selection: Spanish staples, smart spending
For lovers of Mediterranean meals and mindful grocery runs, Terry’s Selection offers Iberian-inspired ingredients that make simple suppers feel special. From olive oils to oven-ready picks, this spot is a secret weapon for stylish, stress-free cooking.
What to buy: Their chorizos for quick tapas plates, marinated chicken for sheet-pan dinners, and gourmet canned goods you can turn into elegant appetizers in minutes
4. The Bow Tie Duck: Asian comfort with a contemporary twist
When cravings call for something cozy, classic, and cleverly convenient, Bow Tie Duck Manila delivers Chinese comfort with a polished twist. Known for its roast specialties and table-ready staples, this deli turns traditional flavors into modern mealtime wins—perfect for nights when you want depth without the drag of long prep.
What to buy: Their signature Roast Duck for rice bowls or wraps, marinated Char Siu Pork for quick stir-fries, and frozen dumplings, siomai that become instant dim sum nights at home, dry sausages, and different cheese variants
5. Sourdough Café: Bread, bowls, and balanced bites
Where carbs meet care, Sourdough Café is a haven for health-leaning shoppers who still crave comfort. With fresh loaves, wholesome spreads, and ready-made meals, this spot proves that clean eating can still feel indulgent.
What to buy: Fresh sourdough for sandwich builds, house-made dips for snack boards, and roasted chicken you can turn into salads, wraps, or grain bowls across the week
Good groceries do more than fill the fridge—they frame the way we eat, gather, and unwind. With the right deli finds and thoughtful picks, even the simplest suppers and parties can feel considered, comforting, and quietly special. It’s not about cooking more—it’s about choosing better and letting great ingredients lead the way.
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