From velour jumpsuits in thrift shops to spicy lechon at habanero kitchen — here’s what Cubao Expo is, and what it isn’t.

The first time we stepped into Quezon City’s Cubao Expo, we felt the time stopping, and then the nostalgia punched us in the face. The antique shops, speakeasies, and trendy restaurants provide a look into what Quezon City’s young subcultures are like, giving you the perfect background for artsy photos to fill your Instagram feed. And if the many identical malls have left a vacuum in your search for popular culture and amazing food, step into this u-shaped utopia of memorabilia of the old: vinyl records, retro stuff and antiques, paintings, art, toys, and comic books. Or go for eats with family and friends — whether you prefer organic food, Italian cuisine, mouthwatering pastries, or like us, all-time favourite Filipino dishes.

Below, we share six of the many spots for vintage appeal and fresh vibes at Cubao Expo.

Grand Thrift House

This home of artefacts, collectables, and memories is itself antique; it has been standing tall for over ten years. The Grand Thrift House is an enthralling (window)shopping experience for an odd-lot of school toys, gadgets, vintage cameras, and other old objects.

The Four Strings

“Bring your ukulele,” said no one ever (except Taylor Swift at her concerts). Make this forgotten instrument cool again, and learn to play one at Four Strings’ jamming sessions. Whether you’re a native Hawaiian or can’t differentiate one from a guitar, they will help you strum away.

UVLA (Unique Vintage and Lost Art) and Studio Soup Gallery

We’re in love with the charming, little store brimming with personality and carefully curated curios. They have time-worn tin and wooden toys, Pinoy komiks (the local equivalent to Marvel comic books), old records, vintage eyewear, patches, watches, etc. Climb up the stairs to the Studio Soup Library, a bistro and book collection that sells an impressive array of local and international indie zines, books, comics, and anything else printed.

Kendo Creative

A retail and event space that displays the work of local artists, craftspeople, and artisans. Join one of their popular workshops to learn more about the local crafts.

The Habanero Kitchen Bar

This Filipino-Italian dining room has the kind of casual, cosy feeling that we love — and it comes with a full bar. As you guessed from the name, habanero chilli is the fiery star in all of their dishes: like the habanero lechon, triple cheese pizza, baked oysters, pasta, sisig, and chicken wings. Dear readers, book a table; the place is usually packed.

Fred’s Revolucion

This enchanting place is a favourite hangout spot of the locals because of their frozen margaritas, chicken chops, and sausage curry. Fred’s Revolucion is such a welcoming place, and you want to book the biggest table and let loose with your friends. But drink responsibly.

If your exploration of the antiques goes on until late, then Red Planet Aurora Boulevard has a good solution. You can walk from there, and find out what Cubao Expo is all about and why the bohemian urbanites go to meet up there.