Planning to visit Thailand’s MBK Center? From the best places to dine, to where to watch traditional dance performances, here’s everything you need to know.
MBK Center, also known as Mahbunkhrong Center, is a landmark and shopping venue in Thailand, neatly towering over Bangkok’s Wang Mai neighbourhood. When the mall first opened on February 7, 1985, it was the largest shopping mall in Asia. Today, the 8-story tower spans over 140,000 square metres of space next to the Pathumwan Junction and is a ‘must-visit’ retail and cultural experience on every traveller’s list.
From electronic gadgets and souvenirs to traditional attire, modern fashion, and popular Thai dishes on a budget, MBK truly embodies the essence of a one-stop shopping destination. While a one-stop shop like this can seem attractive, local advisors are quick to caution about MBK’s tourist-trap reputation, where navigating authenticity and knockoffs can be tricky. Here’s everything you need to know before you plan a visit.
Also, read our essential guide to shopping in and around Bangkok’s Phrom Phong Area.
Best time to visit the MBK Center in Thailand
The ideal time to visit MBK Center Bangkok is early in the day, particularly on weekends when all stores are open, and you can beat the late afternoon crowd. The mall opens at 10 am, but not all shops may be ready then, so arriving slightly later ensures a quieter experience with most outlets operational. Weekdays are ideal to avoid the weekend rush and browse in peace. During summer, MBK offers a cool, air-conditioned escape from Bangkok’s heat, making it a convenient spot to shop and relax.
Timings: 10 am to 10 pm on all days
Also, read our guide to the best time to visit Bangkok.
How to reach MBK Center
MBK Center is located near some of Thailand’s busiest landmarks, such as the National Stadium and BTS Siam station, making it easily accessible via multiple modes of transportation.
By BTS Skytrain: Take the Sukhumvit or Silom Line and transfer to the BTS National Stadium Station (Exit 4). The station connects directly to the mall via a covered walkway.
By MRT subway: If using the MRT, transfer to the BTS at Silom or Sukhumvit stations and continue to National Stadium Station.
By bus: Several buses, including routes 15, 16, 47, 73, 79, and 204, stop near the mall’s main entrance.
By taxi or tuk-tuk: Available throughout Bangkok, these can drop you directly at MBK Center.
Travel tip: The BTS Skytrain is the most reliable option for efficiency and ease, especially during peak traffic hours.
Also, read our story on what to do along the MRT Pink Line in Bangkok.
Things to do at Mahbunkhrong Center
- Visit the MBK Skywalk: A must-visit spot in Bangkok, the MBK Skywalk is located above the prominent intersection of Phaya Thai Road and Rama I Road, connecting MBK Center with Siam Discovery and the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre. Stroll up in the morning to soak in the city’s dreamlike views, and after sunset, marvel at the dazzling, glittering skyline. The Skywalk is also a temporary home for ongoing exhibitions and art installations.
- Experience premium entertainment: Head to the 6th and 7th floors to catch the latest movies, explore the arcade, or play exciting computer games. Do not forget to check out SF Cinema City, MBK Bowling, Hero City Funhouse, and the Thai Boxing Stadium.
- Catch a cultural performance: Experience the richness of Thai culture through live Muay Thai matches or traditional Khon dance performances.
- Make time for health and wellness: Nothing beats a soothing foot or full-body massage after a day of walking and shopping. Red Nails on the 2nd floor understands precisely what you need to unwind. Instyle Salon is where you can find beauty treatments like manicures and pedicures. Grand Massage and Spa comes in clutch with traditional Thai and deep tissue massages. Body Heaven on the 5th floor specialises in massages, body scrubs, and hot stone treatments, followed by servings of mango sticky rice.
- Unwind with one or more nightcap(s): Wrap up your day with a delightful dessert and cocktail at Cat on the Roof, Secret Chamber, or a nearby bar — perfect for a relaxing nightcap.
Must-visit cafes and restaurants
It is not unusual for locals and visitors coming to Thailand to bob over to MBK Center during random hours of the day to feast, in the true sense of the word. Seafood enthusiasts flock to Chao Lay Seafood for its fresh Pla Nueng Manow and Tom Yum Goong, while Ponn satisfies with its tender Hainanese chicken rice, a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Sweet cravings lead to Baan Khun Mae, renowned for its nostalgic Thai desserts and crispy pandan toasts. For variety, Food Legends by MBK on the 6th floor brings together celebrated vendors like Suki The Empire and Som Tam Audi, serving dishes ranging from hearty sukiyaki to zesty papaya salads. Noodle fans shouldn’t miss Guay Tiew Reua Klang Krung on the 7th floor, where richly flavoured boat noodles steal the show.
Those who run on caffeine can grab their cup from one of these many cafes and retail outlets, which include Inthanin Coffee, Café Kantary, Boncafe, True Coffee, After You Dessert Cafe, Starbucks, Black Canyon Coffee, Auntie Anne’s, Cafe Amazon, Tim Hortons, and Au Bon Pain.
Shopping at MBK Center in Thailand
In Mahbunkhrong Center, two distinct experiences are almost guaranteed — decision fatigue and counterfeit goods. Here’s what you can shop at this multi-level shopping centre:
- For souvenirs and casual wear, head to the 1st floor. There, you’ll find stalls selling elephant pants, Bangkok T-shirts, and kids’ clothing featuring movie characters. You’ll also find counterfeit branded clothing and accessories, including replicas of Goyard, at various stalls.
- If you’re looking for jewellery and gold items, visit the 2nd floor, where you’ll find shops like Petch Nong Luk Diamond Shop, Petch Montira, Areewan, Gems Studio, Napat, Wynn Gems and Levi’s for accessories and fashion. Sportzone is an excellent stop for sportswear.
- Tech lovers can shop for second-hand phones, phone accessories, and camera equipment on the 4th floor at Mobile Zone.
- For beauty products, check out the extensive selection of cosmetics and supplements at EVEANDBOY, Oriental Princess (2nd floor), Phutawan (3rd floor) and more.
- For a traditional shopping experience, visit the Craft Village on the 6th Floor for Thai handicrafts and fabrics.
- For budget-friendly fashion, head to Tokyu Department Store, which offers unsold stock from previous seasons, featuring affordable clothing and lifestyle items.
Travel tip: International visitors must be extremely cautious of counterfeit goods, as they are commonly found throughout the mall. It is also advised to check and compare the prices of everything you buy since it is common for sellers to charge high rates here for certain items.
Insider tips
Here’s some essential information to keep in mind for first-time visitors when visiting and shopping at Mahbunkhrong Center:
- Be mindful of inflated prices and avoid getting caught in tourist-targeted markups.
- Haggle for the best price at local outlets and stalls, as bargaining is standard practice at MBK Center. Start at half the quoted price and negotiate respectfully.
- Carry some amount in cash when planning to shop in and around the mall. While many stores accept cards, cash is preferred, especially for stalls and smaller shops.
- Arriving early, especially on weekends, can help avoid crowds and sometimes secure vendors’ “first sale” discounts.
- Scrutinize items, particularly electronics and souvenirs, to ensure quality and authenticity. Ask for confirmation if you’re looking for branded items.
- Eat without breaking the bank at the upper levels, which house popular food courts where you can sample authentic and affordable Thai street food.
- Use the BTS Skytrain for a smooth and fast commute, as The National Stadium BTS station is directly connected to MBK Center, making it the most convenient way to get there.
All currency conversions were done at the time of writing
(Featured image credit: MBK Center)
This article originally appeared on Travel + Leisure Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, bargaining is common at stalls, but fixed prices are typical in branded stores.
Explore MBK Food Island or nearby stalls like Na Bangkok Thai Street Food offering Thai favourites like mango sticky rice and grilled satay.
MBK houses arcades like Hero City Game Centre O’Corner, MBK Bowling, Hero City Funhouse and more.
Pick up handicrafts, keychains, silk products, or Thai snacks like dried mango for taking back home as memorabilia or shop for handicrafts.
Yes, with family dining, kid-friendly shops, and arcades, it suits visitors of all ages.
Visit the Jim Thompson House or Siam Paragon, both within walking distance or take a short bike ride to the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout MBK Center for shoppers.
Check quality, verify the authenticity of any and all electronics, and be cautious of counterfeit goods.
Yes, MBK has elevators, ramps, and accessible facilities to accommodate disabled visitors.
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Written by
Sneha Chakraborty is a journalist and photographer covering how travel intersects with food, culture, and identity. Her reporting has appeared in National Geographic Traveller India, Lonely Planet, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue India, and Hindustan Times, where she spent two years on staff as a correspondent covering travel and culture. She is an alumna of the University of Westminster`s Westminster School of Media, Arts and Design. Currently based in Delhi, she grew up in various cities across India and has lived in Amsterdam, and London.
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