The newest mall in Bangkok. Yes, another one.
Bangkok does not lack mega shopping centres, and each new opening promises to be bigger and more impressive than the last.
Central Park, part of the Dusit Central Park development, arrives with that same confidence and scale, backed by a prime location next to Lumphini Park.
Ah, and the viral design that has already flooded social media with photos of long escalators.
Despite that, I found myself warming to it more than expected.
The layout is considered clear and logical, which already puts it ahead of the pack. Walking through the space does not feel like a test of endurance.
Food outlets are spread out (cafes and bakeries mostly at G floor, restaurants at Level 5), and there is even a sky park above the mall that offers a breather from the crowds with an amazing view.
Food is where Central Park shows its priorities. The selection leans towards focused concepts, especially from Japan and Korea, alongside Thailand home-grown brands.
Kiwamiya Thailand (5th Floor, Unit 510)
The brand originates from Fukuoka in Japan and is known for its grilled hamburg steak served rare and finished on a hot stone at the table.
Diners cook the meat themselves, adjusting doneness bite by bite. I liked that bit of interactivity with the chefs.
Hikiniku to Come (5th Floor, Unit 502-1)
A Japanese concept centred on minced beef served with rice and minimal accompaniments. Fun, energetic and enjoyable.
Solsot (솔솥) (G Floor, Unit G12)
A popular Korean restaurant specialising in “Sotbap” rice cooked in individual pots, topped with meats or vegetables. The appeal lies in the process of cooking, and texture with soft rice and a crisp base.
I previously tried it in Seoul, and thought that the dining experience was pretty comparable.
ThongSmith (G Floor, Unit KG26)
ThongSmith is best known for its Thai boat noodles with rich, dark broth made from pork or beef blood, herbs, and spices. Portions are generous, and the broth is intense.
Downtown by Fran’s (G Floor, Unit G15)
A spin off of Fran’s Brunch and Greens, this concept focuses on artisanal sandwiches and house made breads baked in house, including sourdough, focaccia, baguette, and brioche.
LONGJING Restaurant 绿茶餐厅 (5th Floor, Unit 518)
LONGJING Restaurant 绿茶餐厅 brings Zhejiang cuisine from Hangzhou to Central Park with a menu built around signature regional dishes.
Try the Longjing Roast Chicken and well-braised Dongpo Pork.
Rise Coffee (G Floor, Unit G33)
Other than standard espresso drinks like flat whites, long blacks, and iced lattes, you can find Rise signatures like Orange Wafer Latte, Black Fizz, Dirty Cereal Killer, and Fruit Basket Cold Brew.
Kao Nom (5th Floor, Unit K501)
Kao Nom reworks Thai desserts around rice and coconut, with a menu built on rice soft serve, rice rolls, and shaved ice.
Recommendations include the Cocorice Roll with young coconut and puffed rice, and kakigori topped with taro, pandan, or Thai chocolate elements.
Onibus (G Floor, Unit G05)
A Japanese coffee brand with roots in Tokyo, known for careful sourcing and controlled roasting. I tried it in Tokyo, and so was very keen to have it in Bangkok. It didn’t disappoint.
Parkside Market (LG Floor, Parkside Market zone)
Also known as the “Michelin food court”, head to the LG floor downstairs for the more casual side of eating here.
It brings together a large number of Thai street food vendors, many of which have been recognised by the Michelin Guide.
Central Park Bangkok
946 Rama IV Rd, Si Lom, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
Opening Hours: 10am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)
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