Central Chidlom

Central Chidlom is the flagship location of Thailand’s Central Department Store chain, the retail arm of Central Group — one of Thailand’s largest conglomerates. Connected directly to BTS Chit Lom via a skywalk, it sits alongside Central Embassy at the Ratchaprasong end of the shopping district.

As a department store rather than a mall, Central Chidlom is operated as a single retail entity rather than a collection of independent tenants. This means a more curated, cohesive shopping experience with strong coverage of international and Thai fashion brands, cosmetics (the ground-floor beauty hall is extensive), and homewares. The store positions itself between the mass-market appeal of its suburban branches and the ultra-luxury positioning of Central Embassy next door.

The food floors deserve special attention. The basement houses Central Food Hall, a premium supermarket and food court with imported goods, fresh produce, and a selection of prepared meals. The upper floors include several sit-down restaurants. Central Chidlom’s food offerings are generally a step above the typical mall food court, aimed at the affluent local shoppers and office workers who frequent the store.

Central Group operates dozens of department stores and malls across Thailand. In Bangkok, key locations include CentralWorld (the mega-mall), Central Embassy (luxury), Central Ladprao, Central Bangna, Central Rama 9, Central Eastville, and Central Westgate. Each shares The 1 loyalty programme, and Central brand gift cards work across all locations. Robinson department stores are also part of the Central Group, targeting a more budget-conscious shopper.

Central Chidlom opens daily from 10:00 to 22:00. The Ratchaprasong area is one of Bangkok’s busiest retail corridors, so combine your visit with CentralWorld across the intersection or Siam Paragon a short skywalk away.