My Shopping Adventure in Bangkok: A Journey Through the Top Malls
- Vijay Verghis
- May 22, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 16, 2024
Bangkok is a paradise for shoppers, a city where the traditional and the ultra-modern seamlessly blend to offer an unparalleled shopping experience. Recently, I embarked on a shopping adventure across some of the top malls in Bangkok, and it was nothing short of spectacular. From high-end luxury brands to mouth-watering culinary delights, here's a detailed account of my journey through these five-star shopping havens.
Siam Paragon: The Epitome of Luxury
Shopping Highlights:
Siam Paragon is often dubbed the crown jewel of Bangkok's shopping scene. This mall is a haven for luxury shoppers, housing an impressive lineup of high-end brands. The choices are endless, from Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Gucci to Rolex and Prada. For car enthusiasts, Siam Paragon also features luxury car displays like Lamborghini and Maserati, adding extra glamour. One of the favourite places for our family was sealife. this is a must have experience when you visit Bangkok. There is an option to pre-book and i would recommend you do that.
Food and Drinks:
Food lovers will be in heaven at Siam Paragon. The food court, aptly named Gourmet Garden, offers many dining options. Here, I savoured authentic Thai dishes such as Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles with shrimp), Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), and Mango Sticky Rice for dessert. International cuisine is also well-represented, with Japanese, Italian, and American options available.
CentralWorld: The Ultimate Shopping Experience
Shopping Highlights:
CentralWorld is one of the largest shopping malls in the world and a must-visit for any shopaholic. This mall boasts a mix of local and international brands, making it a versatile shopping destination. High-end brands like Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo sit alongside premium labels such as Calvin Klein and Hugo Boss.
Food and Drinks:
CentralWorld's food offerings are just as diverse as its shopping options. I indulged in some delicious Som Tum (spicy papaya salad) and Khao Soi (a Northern Thai curry noodle dish). The mall also features a trendy food hall called Groove, where you can enjoy craft cocktails and gourmet bites in a chic setting.
EmQuartier: A Modern Shopper's Paradise
Shopping Highlights:
EmQuartier is a part of the larger EM District and is known for its modern architecture and luxurious ambiance. The mall is home to international designer brands like Dior, Saint Laurent, and Jimmy Choo. There's also a section dedicated to local Thai designers, providing a unique shopping experience. I stayed very close to this mall and had most of my nights i had dinner from this mall.
Food and Drinks:
The dining options at EmQuartier are top-notch. One of my favorite spots was Helix Quartier, a spiral dining complex that offers panoramic city views. Here, I enjoyed a traditional Thai meal that included Massaman Curry (a rich, flavorful curry) and Pla Kapong Neung Manao (steamed sea bass with lime sauce). For dessert, Kanom Krok (coconut-rice pancakes) were a delightful treat.
Iconsiam: The Jewel by the River
Shopping Highlights:
Iconsiam is not just a shopping mall; it's an experience. Located by the Chao Phraya River, this mall combines shopping with culture and entertainment. High-end brands like Hermès, Cartier, and Dior are prominently featured. The SookSiam zone within the mall offers a glimpse into Thailand's rich cultural heritage with local crafts and products. I loved the Maserati showroom, and the staff was friendly. Even though I would not buy the product, they let me experience it and walked me through the features. This mall will be one of my favourite malls globally for its architecture, food, and shopping experience. Visiting the apple store is a must with its amazing view from the deck.
Food and Drinks:
Iconsiam's food options are incredibly diverse. I explored the Floating Market within the mall, which offers an array of street food from different parts of Thailand. I tried Boat Noodles, Satay (grilled meat skewers), and Coconut Ice Cream served in a coconut shell. The Tasanai Sky Garden offers fine dining with stunning views of the river. One of my favourite restaurants here is Peppery.
MBK Center: The Bargain Hunter's Haven
Shopping Highlights:
MBK Center is the go-to mall for bargain hunters. Unlike the luxury-centric malls, MBK is famous for its affordable shopping. You can find everything from electronics and mobile accessories to fashion and souvenirs at unbeatable prices.
Food and Drinks:
MBK's food court is a great place to enjoy inexpensive and tasty Thai food. I had Pad Kra Pao (stir-fried basil with meat), Kai Jeow (Thai-style omelette), and refreshing Thai Iced Tea. There are also numerous stalls offering delicious street food, perfect for a quick bite between shopping sprees.
Terminal 21: A Global Shopping Experience
Shopping Highlights:
Terminal 21 is a unique mall designed to look like an airport. Each floor is themed after a different world city, from Tokyo and Paris to Istanbul and San Francisco. Shopping here feels like a global tour. The stores range from trendy local boutiques to international brands. Hope to see one of the floors designed like an Indian city.
Food and Drinks:
The culinary journey at Terminal 21 is equally exciting. The food court, Pier 21, is famous for its affordability and quality. I enjoyed a delightful mix of Thai dishes such as Pad See Ew (stir-fried noodles with soy sauce) and Green Curry. The international section also allowed me to sample dishes from Japan.
My 2 cents
Bangkok's malls are more than just shopping destinations; they are cultural and culinary experiences. Whether you're looking for luxury brands, delicious food, or unique souvenirs, these malls offer something for everyone. My shopping adventure in Bangkok was a whirlwind of excitement, flavors, and unforgettable moments. If you ever find yourself in this vibrant city, make sure to visit these top malls for a truly remarkable experience.