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Strategically located at the center of the island, D’Mall is no wonder the busiest and the most popular business district in Boracay. It is situated in Station 2 and can easily be found because of the giant lake in the area. It is a one-stop shop for all your tourist needs—food, souvenirs, and entertainment—when in the island. But don’t be fooled by its name, it is not your typical walled mall. For first time visitors, here’s a list of what you can find at D’Mall.
Stores
Budget Mart
Photo by Writer
One landmark to easily spot D’Mall is Budget Mart, which is just along the highway. It is the first place you will see upon arriving at the area. It is the entrance to D’Mall Avenue filled with souvenir shops and business stalls. It is open from 7 A.M. to 11 P.M., still good for late-night shopping. Budget Mart’s storefront is the pick-up and drop-off point of shuttle services for most hotels and resorts, too. It has another branch in E’Mall in Station 3.
Crafts of Boracay
Photo by Writer
If you go through the other entrance of D’Mall going to the wet market section, you will find Crafts of Boracay. It is a three-storey building with a supermarket in the ground floor and department stores in its second and third levels. Its rooftop houses Crafty’s Indian Restaurant.
Dining Options
Halowich
Photo by Writer
When in Boracay, being on a diet is not an option. As you enter D’Mall, you should be ready for a sumptuous gastronomic experience. From Budget Mart, there is Thai Basil for authentic Thai dishes, and Kabsa Restaurant that offers traditional Halal Arabic dishes. Another must-try is the giant bowl of Halo Ice from Halowich; a single order is good for 10 people.
Located at the heart of D’Mall, Hama Japanese Restaurant have bento boxes at only PhP350. On its left side, Red Crab Pasta House offers a delectable seafood and pasta mix. Next to it is Spicebird, famous for its PiriPiri chicken, and Cyma, a Greek restaurant.
There are also Filipino, Chinese, Korean, and American restaurants around. For those on a budget, there are fast-food restaurants like Mang Inasal and Andok’s for more affordable meals.
Local Restaurants
Smoke Resto
Photo by Writer
D’Mall is also home to a number of homegrown restaurants. A favorite among locals for its sizzling dishes is the Smoke Resto, whis has two branches. Its first stall is at D’Mall market and the other one is surrounded by souvenir shops at the back of Andok’s. Meanwhile, Lemoni Café is another homegrown favorite and famous for its cakes and other delectable sweet treats.
Lemoni Café
Photo by Writer
If you want to have some liquor, check The Hobbit Tavern. The place is known for its live jazz music each night and “short” waiters. If you’re into sports, visit Rumba’s Sports Bar and Restaurant to cheer for your favorite players with fellow fans.
Souvenirs
Souvenirs like t-shirts, accessories, and home decors for any budget are also available at D’Mall. Get the best of Aklan products at Hugod. For handwoven bags made of abaca and banig, visit Uswag Arts and Crafts.
Handwoven bags by Aklanon weavers at Uswag Arts and Crafts
Photo by Writer
For a more personalized give-away for your loved ones, get hand-painted t-shirts at the beachfront branch of Happy Planet for less than PhP1,000 each.
A caricature in watercolor can be a unique souvenir to take home.
Photo by Writer
A caricature in watercolor is also a good thing to take home. A 12x16 inches caricature is worth PhP1,500 for a single-person drawing, and PhP2,500 for a two-person piece. A shirt from the 28-year-old Cocomangas is also a good memento of your Boracay visit.
Activities
Try Showdown Basketball Shootout and your skill in wall climbing at D'Wall of Boracay
Photo by Writer
If you want some fun activities, try to climb the 3-meter high D’Wall of Boracay. It is located at the end of the D’Mall Avenue. It is only PhP70 per climb. You can also practice your basketball shooting skills at Showdown for just PhP40 for 40 seconds.
Party Places
Music Festival at Epic Boracay
Photo courtesy of Epic
By the beachfront of D’Mall you will find Epic, a popular bar that also offers delectable menus from famous chefs in the country. Insomnia, a new party place that opened just this year is located at the end of D’Mall market.
Other Finds
Sandugo store
Photo by Writer
P & P Tattoo, a tattoo shop preferred even by celebrities can be found in D’Mall. Famous footwear brands such as Crocs, Fila, Nothing but H2O, and Rudy Project are sold in the Sandugo store. Bakeries, pharmacies, ATM machines, salon, jewelry stores, and money changer stalls are also available in the area.
About Karen Bermejo
Karen is a writer, a traveler, and a volunteer. Her ultimate dream is to travel the world, master a foreign language, and learn how to swim. To keep her sanity while chasing her dreams, she’s scaling mountains on weekends.
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