Central Embassy
Overview
Central Embassy (เซ็นทรัล เอ็มบาสซี) is Bangkok’s premier ultra-luxury shopping destination—an architectural landmark on Ploenchit Road that earned the Prix Versailles 2018 as the World’s Most Beautiful Shopping Center (Interior). Developed by Central Retail Corporation (Central Group) with an investment of THB 18 billion, the complex opened its retail podium in May 2014, with the full building including Park Hyatt Bangkok completing in 2017.
The 37-story complex houses approximately 200 retail outlets across eight shopping levels (LG through Level 6), anchored by over 30 ultra-luxury fashion houses, the acclaimed Eathai premium food hall, SIWILAI Thai concept store, the Open House co-living space, and Thailand’s first Embassy Diplomat Screens VIP cinema. Park Hyatt Bangkok occupies floors 14-37 with 222 rooms.
For medical tourists, Central Embassy offers a unique combination of advantages: just one BTS stop from Bumrungrad International Hospital, a compact layout requiring minimal walking, fully enclosed air-conditioned access via the Ploenchit BTS skywalk, and Open House providing one of Bangkok’s best in-mall rest areas for recovery visitors.
Important Notice: Store availability, operating hours, and pricing are subject to change without notice. Verify current information on the official Central Embassy website before your visit. Central Embassy is a Central Group property and is NOT part of the OneSiam (Siam Piwat) program.
Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total area | 144,000-145,000 sqm (entire complex including Park Hyatt tower) |
| Retail area | ~70,000 sqm (retail podium, Levels LG through 6) |
| Stores | 200+ retail outlets |
| Restaurants | 50+ dining options across Eathai, Level 5, and Open House |
| Opened | May 2014 (retail); 2017 (full complex with Park Hyatt) |
| Floors | 8 retail levels (LG, G, 1-6) + Park Hyatt on floors 14-37 |
| Architect | AL_A (Amanda Levete Architects), London |
| Awards | Prix Versailles 2018 — World’s Most Beautiful Shopping Center (Interior) |
| Annual visitors | ~10 million (20,000-30,000 daily) |
Zones and Sections
Central Embassy is organized across eight retail levels, each with a distinct character—from ultra-luxury flagships at ground level to the relaxed Open House co-living space on Level 6.
Eathai — Premium Thai Food Hall (Level LG)
Central Embassy’s signature dining experience and one of Bangkok’s most acclaimed food halls.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 5,000 sqm |
| Vendors | 60+ restaurants/stalls, 200+ dishes |
| Layout | Organized by Thai region: Northern, Central, Southern, Northeastern |
| Price range | 100-400 THB per dish (subject to change) |
| Hours | 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM daily |
| Payment | Cash or card at individual stalls (no prepaid card system) |
| Recognition | Bangkok Bold Kitchen stall — Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2020 |
Best for: Premium regional Thai cuisine, a culinary experience beyond standard food courts, recovery nutrition with varied healthy options.
ICONLUXE-Caliber Luxury Zone (Levels G, 1, and 2)
The ground floor and first two levels house Central Embassy’s ultra-luxury retail core, featuring over 30 of the world’s most prestigious fashion and lifestyle brands.
| Level | Brand Highlights |
|---|---|
| Level G | Chanel, Hermès, Prada, Gucci, Cartier, Rolex, Burberry, Omega, Hublot, ZEGNA |
| Level 1 | Dior, Alexander McQueen, Bottega Veneta, Saint Laurent, Fendi, Valentino, Patek Philippe, Loro Piana, Moncler |
| Level 2 | Balenciaga (relocated), Sephora, SIWILAI, & Other Stories, COS, Zara, Massimo Dutti |
Note: Brand presence and availability are subject to change. This listing is informational only and does not constitute an endorsement.
SIWILAI — Thai Luxury Concept Store (Level 2)
A pioneering concept store that curates Thai fashion designers, contemporary art, vinyl records, homeware, and a café in one space. SIWILAI represents a distinctly Thai luxury experience not found in other Bangkok malls—combining fashion, art, and culture.
Best for: Unique Thai designer fashion, contemporary art, curated gifts, cultural discovery.
Open House — Co-Living Space (Level 6)
Designed by Klein Dytham Architecture (Japan), Open House is Asia’s first co-living library and dining concept—described as a “city living room.”
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Design | Open, naturally-lit space with comfortable seating throughout |
| Bookshop | Asia Books |
| Restaurants | 15+ including Roast Coffee, Parden, Another Story, Hands and Heart |
| Facilities | Co-working space, children’s playground, reading nooks |
| Atmosphere | Quiet, relaxed, modern—ideal recovery rest area |
Best for: Recovery rest, reading, quiet dining, co-working, families with children.
Embassy Diplomat Screens — VIP Cinema (Level 6)
Thailand’s first dedicated VIP-only cinema concept.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Screens | 5 VIP screens |
| Seating | Reclining leather seats with blankets and pillows |
| Service | Butler service, food and drinks included |
| Price | 900-1,300 THB per ticket (subject to change) |
Best for: Low-energy entertainment during recovery, luxury cinema experience.
Additional Levels
| Level | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Level 3 | Fashion and lifestyle: Gentle Monster, Maison Kitsuné, Paul Smith, Kenzo. F&B: Dean & DeLuca, Harrods Tea Room, Lady Nara |
| Level 4 | Lifestyle and wellness: B2S bookstore, Bang & Olufsen, Dyson, TWG Tea, Panpuri. Banking services |
| Level 5 | Restaurant floor: 20+ restaurants including Bangkok Bold Kitchen (Michelin Bib Gourmand), Nara Thai, Greyhound Café, Osha Bangkok. P&F Smooth Life Pharmacy |
| Level LG | Eathai food hall, Let’s Relax Spa, Vejpong Osot Pharmacy, Central Food Hall, After You Durian |
What to Buy
Ultra-Luxury Fashion and Accessories
Central Embassy is Bangkok’s most concentrated ultra-luxury retail destination. Levels G through 2 house over 30 international fashion houses. Luxury purchases may qualify for VAT refunds (see VAT Refund Guide below).
| Category | Brands |
|---|---|
| Fashion houses | Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Hermès, Prada, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Fendi, Valentino, Versace |
| Contemporary luxury | Alexander McQueen, Brunello Cucinelli, Givenchy, Loewe, Miu Miu, Moncler, Loro Piana |
| Watches and jewelry | Cartier, Patek Philippe, Rolex, Omega, Hublot |
| Shoes and leather | Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo, Tod’s, Bally, Berluti |
Mid-Range Fashion (Level 2-3)
| Brand | Level | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Zara | 2 | Fast fashion |
| COS | 2 | Minimalist fashion |
| & Other Stories | 2 | Contemporary womenswear |
| Massimo Dutti | 2 | Smart-casual |
| Sephora | 2 | Beauty and cosmetics |
| Tory Burch | 3 | Accessible luxury |
| Max Mara | 3 | Women’s fashion |
Thai Design and Culture
| Where | What to Find |
|---|---|
| SIWILAI (Level 2) | Curated Thai designer fashion, contemporary art, vinyl records, homeware, café |
| Panpuri (Level 4) | Thai luxury aromatherapy and spa products |
| Eathai (Level LG) | Regional Thai food products and specialty ingredients |
Electronics and Lifestyle
Bang & Olufsen, Dyson, and Harman on Level 4 offer premium electronics and audio equipment.
Important: Luxury goods such as gems, gold, and jewelry are sold for personal use and should not be considered investment purchases. Verify authenticity and obtain proper documentation for high-value purchases.
Dining and Food
Central Embassy offers over 50 dining options across four distinct dining zones, from premium Thai food at Eathai to the relaxed cafés of Open House.
Eathai Food Hall (Level LG)
The centerpiece dining experience—and far more than a standard food court. Eathai curates premium Thai cuisine from all regions in a 5,000-square-meter dedicated space.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Price range | 100-400 THB per dish (subject to change) |
| Cuisine | All Thai regions (Northern, Central, Southern, Northeastern) |
| Vendors | 60+ restaurants and stalls |
| Seating | Ample communal seating, air-conditioned |
| Payment | Cash or card directly at stalls |
| Recognition | Bangkok Bold Kitchen — Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2020 |
| Hours | 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM daily |
Restaurant Floor (Level 5)
A dedicated dining level with over 20 restaurants.
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Bangkok Bold Kitchen | Thai | Michelin Bib Gourmand |
| Nara Thai Cuisine | Thai | Popular chain with premium setting |
| Osha Bangkok | Thai fusion | Contemporary Thai |
| Greyhound Café | Thai-Western | Bangkok original |
| Hyde & Seek | International | Family-friendly |
| Jones Salad | Health food | Salads and light meals |
Open House Dining (Level 6)
15+ restaurants and cafés in a relaxed co-living environment.
| Venue | Type |
|---|---|
| Roast Coffee & Eatery | Specialty coffee and brunch |
| Parden | Wine bar and bistro |
| Another Story | Café and lifestyle |
| Hands and Heart | Specialty coffee |
Additional Dining
| Venue | Level | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dean & DeLuca | 3 | Gourmet café and deli |
| Harrods Tea Room | 3 | Afternoon tea |
| TWG Tea Salon | 4 | Premium tea house |
| After You Durian | LG | Famous Thai dessert chain |
Dietary Options
- Halal: Select options available in Eathai
- Vegetarian: Multiple options across Eathai and restaurants
- Soft foods: Available for dental recovery patients at various venues
Entertainment and Attractions
Embassy Diplomat Screens (Level 6)
Thailand’s first dedicated VIP cinema concept—an ideal low-energy recovery activity.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Screens | 5 VIP-only screens |
| Seating | Reclining leather seats with blankets and pillows |
| Service | Butler service with food and drinks included in ticket |
| Ticket price | 900-1,300 THB (subject to change) |
| Showtimes | Typically 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (verify on official website) |
Open House (Level 6)
Asia’s first co-living library and dining concept functions as a cultural destination in itself—rotating art installations, book browsing, and a relaxed atmosphere designed for extended stays.
SIWILAI (Level 2)
Beyond shopping, SIWILAI hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, and vinyl listening sessions that showcase contemporary Thai creative culture.
Award-Winning Architecture
Central Embassy’s undulating facade of 300,000 individual aluminum tiles—designed by Amanda Levete of AL_A architects (also known for the V&A Exhibition Road Quarter in London)—is an architectural landmark visible from Ploenchit Road. The interior spaces feature dramatic atriums with natural light.
Getting There
BTS Ploenchit Station (Recommended)
The most convenient and weather-proof access to Central Embassy.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Station | Ploenchit (E2), BTS Sukhumvit Line |
| Access | Direct enclosed skywalk from Exit 5 to Level 1 |
| From Bumrungrad area | 1 stop from Nana (E3) — approximately 3 minutes |
| From Siam | 2 stops from Siam interchange (CEN) |
| Frequency | Every 3-5 min (rush) / 5-8 min (off-peak) |
| Operating hours | 05:30 AM - midnight |
Skywalk Connections
| Connection | Access |
|---|---|
| BTS Ploenchit (Exit 5) | Direct enclosed skywalk to Level 1 |
| Central Chidlom | Skywalk connection via Level 2 |
By Taxi or Grab
| From | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Sukhumvit (Nana/Asok) | 5-15 min |
| Silom/Sathorn | 15-25 min |
| Suvarnabhumi Airport | 45-60 min (~350-500 THB, fare varies) |
| Don Mueang Airport | 45-75 min |
From Airport by Rail
Take Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai → transfer to BTS Sukhumvit Line → Ploenchit station (Exit 5 for direct skywalk).
Parking
2,000 spaces in multi-level car park. First 2 hours free with purchase. Valet parking available at main entrance (Level G).
Bus Routes
Routes 2, 25, 40, 48, 501, 508, 511, 513 stop on Ploenchit Road near the mall entrance.
Tourist Services
Tourist Welcome Package (Central Group)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Benefit | 500 THB discount voucher with 10,000+ THB spend |
| Registration | Present passport at Concierge, Level G |
| Loyalty program | The 1 card — earn and redeem points across all Central Group properties |
| Valid at | Central Embassy, Central Chidlom, Central World, CentralFestival, Central Village outlet |
Important: Central Embassy is a Central Group property and does NOT participate in the OneSiam Global Visitor Card program (which covers Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery, and ICONSIAM). Benefits and terms are subject to change.
Available Services
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Concierge | Level G — personal shoppers, porter and butler service, interpreters, restaurant reservations |
| Currency exchange | SuperRich (Level 2) — competitive rates. Additional counters on Level G |
| Free WiFi | Available throughout the mall |
| Pharmacy | P&F Smooth Life Pharmacy (Level 5) and Vejpong Osot Pharmacy (Level LG) |
| Spa | Let’s Relax Spa (Level LG) |
| Luggage storage | Ask at Concierge, Level G |
| Valet parking | Available at main entrance |
| Baby changing rooms | Every floor |
Multilingual Staff
Staff members speak Thai, English, Chinese (Mandarin), and Japanese (at select luxury boutiques).
Contact
Concierge: +66 2 119 7777 ext 2001-2003
VAT Refund Guide
International visitors can claim VAT refunds on qualifying purchases. This process is governed by the Thai Revenue Department and is subject to change.
Eligibility and Process
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Look for stores displaying the “VAT REFUND FOR TOURISTS” sign |
| 2 | Present your passport at the time of purchase |
| 3 | Request a P.P.10 form (VAT Refund Application for Tourists) and original tax invoice |
| 4 | Ensure your passport number is correctly recorded on the form |
| 5 | Keep goods in original condition with tags attached |
Key Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum purchase | 2,000 THB per store per day (VAT included) |
| Total minimum | 5,000 THB accumulated purchases to claim at airport |
| Refund rate | Up to 7% VAT; actual refund ~4-6% after processing fees |
| Cash refund limit | Up to 30,000 THB in cash (~100 THB admin fee per form); above that, credit/debit card only |
| Goods export | Must leave Thailand within 60 days of purchase |
| Luxury items | Purchases over 20,000 THB require Customs inspection before airport check-in |
Refund Rate Tiers
| Purchase Amount | Effective Refund Rate |
|---|---|
| 2,000-4,999 THB | ~3.5-4.0% |
| 5,000-9,999 THB | ~4.0-4.5% |
| 10,000-49,999 THB | ~4.5-5.5% |
| 50,000+ THB | ~5.5-6.0% |
At the Airport
- Before check-in: Visit Customs inspection counter for goods valued over 20,000 THB total
- Luxury items: Items valued 40,000+ THB individually (jewelry, watches, handbags, electronics) must be hand-carried and re-inspected after immigration
- After immigration: Visit the VAT Refund for Tourists Office to collect your refund
- Locations: Suvarnabhumi Level 4 Departures (East and West sites) and Don Mueang Level 3 Departures
VAT Refund Tips
- Keep all P.P.10 forms and original tax invoices together
- Do not remove tags or open luxury products — Customs may inspect them
- Arrive at the airport early — Customs inspection can take 15-30 minutes during peak times
- Central Embassy luxury purchases often exceed luxury goods thresholds — plan to hand-carry these items
- Ask at the Concierge (Level G) for assistance with VAT refund paperwork
Disclaimer: VAT refund eligibility, rates, and processes are governed by the Thai Revenue Department and are subject to change. The information above is provided as a general guide only. Verify current rules at rd.go.th or at the mall’s Concierge before making purchases.
Medical Tourist Guide
Physical Demand Assessment
Rating: Low — Central Embassy is one of the most comfortable luxury shopping destinations in Bangkok for recovering patients, with a compact layout significantly smaller than mega-malls.
| Factor | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Climate exposure | None — Fully enclosed, air-conditioned mall with enclosed BTS skywalk |
| Walking requirement | Minimal — Compact footprint (~500m-1km across floors); Eathai + Open House provide a complete experience |
| Surfaces | Excellent — Smooth, modern floors throughout |
| Elevation changes | None — Elevators and escalators to all floors |
| Rest areas | Excellent — Open House (Level 6) is arguably Bangkok’s best in-mall rest area |
| Crowds | Low to moderate — Significantly quieter than mega-malls due to ultra-luxury positioning |
Post-Surgery Suitability
| Recovery Stage | Suitability | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Minor procedures (dental, light cosmetic) | Excellent | Visit within days of procedure. Fully air-conditioned, compact layout, wheelchair-friendly. Open House provides ideal rest environment with cafés and bookshop. |
| Moderate procedures | Very suitable | Visit with rest breaks. Eathai (Level LG) for dining and Open House (Level 6) for rest — two floors provide a complete experience. Wheelchair available at Concierge if needed. |
| Major procedures | Suitable for gentle outings | Visit after initial recovery period (Week 2+). Use wheelchair, limit to 1-2 hours. Compact size is a major advantage. Park Hyatt guests have direct building access. |
Nearest Hospitals
| Hospital | Distance | Travel Time | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bumrungrad International Hospital | ~2.5 km | 1 BTS stop (Ploenchit → Nana) + short taxi, or ~10 min direct taxi | Private international — closest major medical tourism hospital |
| BNH Hospital | ~4 km | 3 BTS stops (transfer at Siam) + short walk, or ~15 min taxi | Private international (Silom) |
| Bangkok Hospital | ~10 km | ~20-35 min by taxi | Private international (eastern Bangkok) |
Key advantage: Central Embassy is the closest ultra-luxury mall to Bumrungrad International Hospital — just 1 BTS station away, making it the most hospital-proximate luxury shopping in Bangkok.
Pharmacy
Two pharmacies on-site:
- P&F Smooth Life Pharmacy (Level 5) — full pharmacy services including prescription medicines
- Vejpong Osot Pharmacy (Level LG, near Eathai) — basic medicines and health products
Comfort Tips for Recovery Visitors
- Visit weekday mornings (10:00 AM-12:00 PM) for near-empty luxury shopping
- Use BTS Ploenchit (Exit 5) for enclosed skywalk access — zero outdoor heat exposure
- Head to Open House (Level 6) for the best rest area — quiet, comfortable, naturally lit with cafés and bookshop
- Try Eathai (Level LG) for varied Thai cuisine — healthy options available, premium quality
- Request wheelchair at Concierge (Level G) if mobility is limited
- Just 1 BTS stop from Bumrungrad — can return to hospital quickly if needed
- Embassy Diplomat Screens (Level 6) offers reclining seats and butler service — ideal low-energy activity
- Park Hyatt guests have direct building access with no transit needed
- Connected to Central Chidlom via Level 2 skywalk — extend shopping without going outdoors
- Bring your passport for VAT refund eligibility and Tourist Welcome Package registration
Medical Advisory: Always consult your treating physician before any sightseeing activity post-procedure. Individual recovery varies significantly—these are general guidelines only. Listen to your body and rest as needed. If you experience any discomfort, return to your accommodation and contact your medical team.
Practical Tips
Payment Methods
| Method | Acceptance |
|---|---|
| Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, UnionPay, AMEX) | Most stores |
| Cash (Thai Baht) | All stores |
| QR code payments (PromptPay, WeChat Pay, Alipay) | Widely accepted |
| Apple Pay / Google Pay | Select stores |
Bargaining
Central Embassy is a fixed-price retail mall — bargaining is not expected or customary at any store.
Scam Awareness
| Risk | Advice |
|---|---|
| Unofficial taxi touts | May approach outside — use the mall’s taxi queue or Grab app for fair pricing |
| Counterfeit goods | Not an issue — Central Embassy sells genuine, authorized products only |
| Pickpocketing | Very low risk — upscale clientele, security presence, uncrowded environment |
Weather Considerations
Bangkok averages 33°C (91°F) year-round. Central Embassy is fully air-conditioned, and the BTS skywalk connection eliminates all outdoor heat exposure.
Rainy season (June-October): No impact — fully enclosed mall with covered BTS access.
What to Wear
Central Embassy has an upscale atmosphere. Smart-casual or above is recommended — Thais appreciate well-presented visitors in luxury environments.
Cultural Tips
- Thai people appreciate politeness and a wai (hands pressed together) greeting
- Tipping is not expected at Eathai food stalls but appreciated at sit-down restaurants (10% or round up)
- Keep your voice moderate in Open House — it is a shared quiet space
Best Times to Visit
| Time | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Weekday 10:00-12:00 | Best for recovery visitors — Near-empty luxury shopping |
| Weekday afternoon | Light crowds, comfortable shopping |
| Weekend afternoon (2:00-5:00 PM) | Busiest period — still quieter than mega-malls |
| Evening | Quieter again; restaurants in full service |
Recommended Visit Duration
- Eathai + Open House: 2-3 hours (a complete experience with minimal walking)
- Luxury shopping: 2-3 hours
- Comprehensive exploration: Half day
- Recovery visitors: 1-2 hours per visit, focusing on 1-2 levels
Nearby Destinations
Connected Shopping
| Destination | Connection | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Central Chidlom | Level 2 skywalk — 2 min walk | Central Group department store, direct covered access |
| Gaysorn Village | ~500m, BTS Chit Lom | Ultra-luxury boutique mall |
| Siam Paragon | 2 BTS stops to Siam | Bangkok’s premier mega-mall |
| Siam Center | 2 BTS stops to Siam | Contemporary fashion and design |
| Siam Discovery | 2 BTS stops to Siam | Design-forward retail |
| Central World | ~1 km, BTS Chit Lom | One of Southeast Asia’s largest malls |
Nearby Hotels
| Hotel | Distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Park Hyatt Bangkok | In-building (floors 14-37) | 222 rooms, direct internal elevator access — ultimate convenience |
| The Okura Prestige Bangkok | ~200m | Japanese luxury hotel on Ploenchit Road |
| Grande Centre Point Ploenchit | ~300m | Serviced apartments, good for extended stays |
| InterContinental Bangkok | ~500m | Near Central Chidlom |
| Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok | ~800m | Near Erawan Shrine and Central World |
BTS Connections
| Line | Stations | Destinations |
|---|---|---|
| Sukhumvit Line (eastbound) | Nana, Asok, Phrom Phong | Bumrungrad Hospital area, Sukhumvit nightlife, EmQuartier |
| Sukhumvit Line (westbound via Siam) | Chit Lom, Siam, National Stadium | Central World, Siam shopping district, MBK |
| Silom Line (transfer at Siam) | Sala Daeng, Saphan Taksin | Silom business district, river ferries |
Contact Information
| Method | Contact |
|---|---|
| Website | centralembassy.com |
| Phone | +66 2 119 7777 |
| Concierge | +66 2 119 7777 ext 2001-2003 |
| Address | 1031 Ploenchit Road, Lumphini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 |
Prices, store availability, and operating hours are subject to change. Information on this page was compiled in February 2026 from official sources and verified travel resources. Always verify current details on the official Central Embassy website before visiting. This content is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute an endorsement of any brand, product, or service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Central Embassy's opening hours?
Central Embassy is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Eathai food hall closes at 9:30 PM. Individual restaurant hours may vary. Verify current hours on the official website before visiting, as hours may change for special events or holidays.
How do I get to Central Embassy?
The easiest route is BTS Sukhumvit Line to Ploenchit station (E2). Take Exit 5 for a direct enclosed skywalk connection into the mall at Level 1—no outdoor walking required. Central Embassy is just 1 stop from Nana (near Bumrungrad Hospital) and 2 stops from Siam interchange. By taxi from Sukhumvit, expect 5-15 minutes depending on traffic.
Is Central Embassy suitable for medical tourists recovering from surgery?
Central Embassy is one of the most suitable shopping destinations in Bangkok for recovery patients. The compact layout requires minimal walking compared to mega-malls, the entire building is fully air-conditioned with zero heat exposure via the BTS skywalk, and Open House on Level 6 provides one of the best rest areas in any Bangkok mall. It is also the closest ultra-luxury mall to Bumrungrad International Hospital—just 1 BTS stop away. Pharmacies are available on Level 5 and Level LG.
How does the VAT refund work at Central Embassy?
Look for stores displaying the 'VAT REFUND FOR TOURISTS' sign. Present your passport at purchase and request a P.P.10 form. Minimum spend is 2,000 THB per store per day. At the airport, visit Customs inspection (before check-in for items over 20,000 THB), then the VAT Refund Office after immigration. Refund is approximately 4-6% after processing fees. Cash refunds available up to 30,000 THB; above that amount, refund is by credit/debit card only. VAT refund is subject to Thai Revenue Department rules and may change.
What is Eathai?
Eathai is Central Embassy's premium Thai food hall on Level LG, covering 5,000 square meters with over 60 restaurant stalls and 200+ dishes representing all Thai regions. Unlike standard food courts, Eathai operates without a prepaid card system—pay directly at each stall with cash or card. Prices range from 100-400 THB per dish. The Bangkok Bold Kitchen stall has held a Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2020. Prices and vendors are subject to change.
What is Open House?
Open House is Central Embassy's co-living space on Level 6, designed by Klein Dytham Architecture. It combines a bookshop (Asia Books), 15+ restaurants and cafes, a children's playground, and co-working space in one open, naturally-lit environment. It functions as a comfortable rest area ideal for recovery visitors seeking a quiet, relaxing space with food and reading options.
Is there a tourist discount card?
Central Embassy offers a Tourist Welcome Package through the Central Group—a 500 THB discount voucher when spending 10,000 THB or more. Present your passport at the Concierge on Level G. You can also sign up for The 1 card (Central Group loyalty program) with tourist membership to earn and redeem points across all Central Group properties. Note: Central Embassy is NOT part of the OneSiam program. Benefits and terms are subject to change.
What is the best time to visit Central Embassy?
Weekday mornings (10:00 AM-12:00 PM) offer the most relaxed shopping experience with minimal crowds. Central Embassy is generally quieter than mega-malls like Siam Paragon or ICONSIAM due to its ultra-luxury positioning. For Eathai, visit at lunch (11:30 AM-1:00 PM) or early dinner (5:00-6:30 PM) for the freshest dishes.
Need Help Planning Your Visit?
Our team can help coordinate your visit to Central Embassy during your stay in Thailand.
Check your insurance coverage before booking your medical trip.