Tiendesitas, which means “a collection of little stores,” is created by the same group behind Greenhills Shopping Center to rival Chaktuchak market in Bangkok, Thailand. Straddling along C-5 road, Tiendesitas is a one-stop-shop for native food, traditional clothes, handicrafts, furniture, pets, novelty items, and other products that are made in the Philippines. It also showcases live bands, cultural performances, and other events that highlight Filipino talent and traditions.
Fashion Village at Tiendesitas (Photo from Google images)
Features
Tiendesitas is divided between several sections, making it relatively easy for shoppers to find specifically what they are looking for. The Food Village features Filipino cuisine and dishes that usually transpire in Filipinos’ kitchens. The adjacent delicacies section displays a wide assortment of rice cakes and other traditional Filipino snacks. The Antiques Village has rows and rows of saint icons, vintage appliances, and other collectibles. Fashion Village sells barongs and Maria Clara gowns alongside mass-produced accessories and RTWs.
Music and Arts Festival at Tiendesitas (Photo from Tiendesitas’ Facebook page)
The Home Furnishings Village is home to Filipino-made wood and rattan furniture. The next-door Handicrafts section highlights Filipino art, while the nearby Novelty Village sells décor, treasure chests and souvenirs. The Pet Village sets domestic and rare pets, with their corresponding supplies and service centers such as pet spas and beauty parlors. The Entertainment section presents live bands every night, starting at 8. Plants Village is for lovers of plants and fountains. Finally, the Peoples’ Village is a venue for occasional cultural performances.
Getting in and around
Tiendesitas has more than 300 parking slots. It is served by jeepneys and buses traversing the C-5. Taxis, however, are still the best means to get there. Calesa (horse-drawn carriage) rides inside the complex are available from 4 to 9 p.m.
Novelty Village at Tiendesitas (Photo from Google images)
Contact details and opening hours
Address: Ortigas Avenue cor. E. Rodriguez Ave. (C-5), Metro Manila, Philippines
Telephone: 635-5680 & 689-1068
Telefax: 634-5084
Customer Service: 386-3927 (Info Booth)
Website: http://www.tiendesitas.com.ph/
Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tiendesitas/218236160330
Opening hours: noon to 12 midnight
Downside
Apart from being a little far-fetched from the rest of Manila, Tiendesitas also offers prices that are a little higher as compared to malls and other bazaars.
