The University Mall (a.k.a. U.M. or U Mall) located near DLSU Manila and across Benilde is not really a "mall" by our country's standards. It's quite small, and its offerings limited. But for many Lasallians and Benildeans, it is just the perfect tambayan.
U Mall has KFC, 7-11, and Bon Chon on the ground floor, as well as stalls that sell books, gadgets, snacks, DLSU and Benilde merchandise, and lighters. On the second floor, it has Wing Stop, Cerealicious, and Tokyo Joe, among other restaurants and food stalls. On the third floor, there's the salon B.A.R. Beauty and Rejuvenation, and other stalls that sell clothes and gadgets. There used to be a computer shop here, too, but I don't know if it's still open.
Back in my college days, U.M. was a dimly lit structure that seemed to serve as a hangout of choice for sketchy characters. Most of the stores then offered only pirated CDs and DVDs. I'm glad to see its reincarnation now, and I hope it continues on for future generations of Benildeans and Lasallians to experience. read more