Eventually, I made my way back over to Hillhurst, and I decided to check out this Filipino place I had noticed on the walk down. The signage on the building said it was the Philipine Art & Commerce Center. But once I walked in, it was a nice Filipino store, Tatak Pilipino. Apparently, it's part of a national chain. -Who knows, maybe there are offices there for the Art & Commerce Center, but I didn't notice any.
They had the usual selection of Filipino knick-knacks and religious items - which, unfortunately, are traditionally on the tacky side. They also had cookwares, plates, clothing, and a small selection of Filipino snack foods - I really had to resist stocking up on dried mango and caramelized pili nuts. I was hoping to come across some Filipino pastries/baked goods, but they didn't seem to carry any - I should have asked if there was a store nearby.
The top floor of the place was filled with DVDs, CDs and karaoke supplies. The selection was quite nice, and I may have to go back and pick up some of Lea Salonga's CDs - they were only $11.99 there compared to the usual $20.00 and up I see them at elsewhere. There were a few more CDs from various Filipino Broadway babies - Paola Montaban, etc... However, I didn't see Jose Llana's new CD. In any case...
Along one wall upstairs was a selection of books. Childrens books, art books, dictionaries, and cookbooks. The selection of cookbooks was quite nice, and I'll definitely have to browse some more later and pick up one or two.
There was actually quite a nice bunch of people shopping, and the staff seemed really helpful too. I've never really been into investigating my cultural background (I know, shame on me), but it did feel a bit "homey" being in there for a couple of minutes. I'll definitely be making a return trip or two there - I have a feeling I'll be able to find some nice gifts for my parents, and some childrens books for my nieces and nephews.