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The first half of the year has seen a steady stream of new store openings across the capital. From flagship debuts and major renovations by global brands to Thai labels expanding into prime department store locations, the city’s fashion scene is evolving. Whether you’re after refined tailoring, functional everyday wear, or street-style staples, there's something for every kind of shopper.  We’ve rounded up the newest must-visit flagships – from bougie Parisian brands to cool Thai labels – that are making shopping feel fun again. Here’s where to head if you’re in the mood to browse, be inspired, or simply want a style upgrade.

Bangkok’s dining scene never ceases to impress with new restaurants constantly adding fresh energy to the city’s vibrant food landscape. While elegant fine dining establishments often steal the spotlight with their refined menus and impeccable presentation, casual eateries play an equally important role in shaping the city’s culinary identity. From bustling street-side stalls to trendy bistros, these spots capture the capital’s lively spirit through bold flavours, creative concepts and inviting atmospheres. If you’re planning a romantic evening for two, a laid-back family dinner or even a solo food adventure, there’s no shortage of exciting options. The city’s diverse culinary landscape continues to expand, offering everything from Cantonese and French delicacies to comforting Burmese dishes. Whether you’re drawn to modern fusion cuisine or timeless classics, there’s always something new to discover. Discover, book, and save at hundreds of restaurants with Grab Dine Out. Enjoy exclusive discounts, use dining vouchers, and make instant reservations, all in the Grab app. Explore Grab Dine Out now.

Thailand’s love affair with bling has been raging for centuries. Even the country’s former name, Siam, means ‘gold’ in Sanskrit. There are three main pillars of Thai jewellery: silver, gold and gems. Silver is often tied to northern hill tribes, known for intricate handwork passed down through generations while Thai goldsmithing was once reserved for royalty. The use of gemstones as ornaments can be traced back to the Ayutthaya period.  Today, while styles have evolved, the craftsmanship and sparkle live on. Many brands continue to celebrate by working with  local communities that use techniques passed down through generations, weaving Thai cultural elements – like floral motifs – into their designs. Thai jewellery remains rooted in detail, meaning and a deep connection to tradition. From delicate charms to bold statement pieces, the Big Mango offers a stunning array of locally-crafted jewellery to suit every style and budget. Based on recent online buzz, global recognition and appearances in fashion shoots, everyday looks, and even on the big screen, we've curated a list of the city's finest jewelry ateliers. Here are our top picks for the best of Bangkok's bijoux.

We’re all familiar with the influence of today’s Western, Chinese and Korean makeup trends – and yes, the hype is real – but now Thai makeup brands are beginning to step into the spotlight with a style that blends soft and sharp elements to enhance facial features.  Dating back centuries, Thai beauty rituals have a long legacy rooted in nature and the use of local herbs and ingredients. These time-honoured practices have been part of everyday life for generations. Today, this heritage continues to shape the modern ideal of Thai beauty. Some brands maintain tradition with a fresh perspective while others honour it through clean formulations and simplicity. Whether emerging or established, these Thai makeup marques speak to a beauty philosophy that’s grounded and powerful. Readily available at most drugstores, here’s our pick of the labels ranked by their viral popularity and cultural impact. Each has earned praise for quality, style and value – and all are sure to put a smile on your face. 

An area that exudes conviviality and offers a cool, laid-back atmosphere, the Ari ‘hood has become one of Bangkok’s most beloved. It’s where thoughtful design, cultural appreciation and creative energy come together. An ever-growing scene of chic cafés, bars and restaurants give the area its elan. It’s also a neighbourhood where niche, curated boutiques find a home, stores that reflect the personal tastes and passions of their owners, merchants who choose Ari for its creative spirit and community feel. The following guide highlights some of the neighbourhood’s standout shopping destinations – outlets that range from cool concept stores to spaces rooted in local craftsmanship. Whether you're visiting for a day or staying the weekend, these spots capture the spirit of Ari: effortless, expressive and ever-evolving.

No trip to Bangkok is really complete without sampling the culinary classics. From such beloved staples as pad Thai and tom yum goong to irresistible street snacks like refreshing watermelon smoothies. Somewhere on this list stands Thailand’s most iconic and rapped-about dessert: mango sticky rice. Simple yet beloved by all, it’s a crowd favourite that draws both locals and tourists to queue up at their go-to spots. And while you can find it almost anywhere, some places stand out with time-honoured recipes, high-quality ingredients and generations of tradition behind every bite. We’ve rounded up the best spots across the city to enjoy this beloved dessert – places where the heart of it all lies in perfecting the recipe for sticky rice, sourcing quality mangoes from across the country and showing true dedication to the craft. Each bite reflects the pride and care of those behind the counter.

Fashion is more than what we wear – it’s a story of how we live, what we value, and where we dream of going. And this year, resort wear is having a major moment! From breezy silhouettes to effortless style, it’s all about blending comfort and elegance into daily life. But the spotlight on this trend isn’t just coincidence – it’s been amplified by the third season of The White Lotus, set in the dreamy landscapes of Southern Thailand. Characters flaunted stunning Thai silk pieces, perfect for the tropical vibe with their airy designs and weather-ready comfort.

Attempting to put together a list of the 50 best restaurants in Bangkok is an unenviable task. No matter how hard you try, you’re going to be leaving out not just good restaurants, but mind-bendingly good restaurants. Indeed, the process of assembling the following list involved not only signal-boosting some of our favourite culinary craftspeople, but also a painful triage of a host of excellent venues. That’s just how dense with excellence this city is when it comes to quality dining.  What makes eating out here so brilliant is the sheer diversity – both cultural and economic – of the Big Mango’s food scene and our top 50 aims to reflect that. Were we to focus purely on the set-menu avant-garde and quiet-luxury omakase counters, it would be a disservice to a readership that doesn’t just want food to look at, photograph and read about, but wants to eat. Therefore, we include some of the city’s most dazzling palaces of haute cuisine alongside humble streetside vendors. We’re serious eaters more than withering critics, and Bangkok is a city full of serious eats. Hence, we want to share our favourites and leave it to you, the reader, to be the withering critic. Dive in and enjoy the ride!

As the saying goes, one man's trash is another man's treasure. Vintage shopping is more than just finding rare pieces; it's about uncovering the stories behind fashion, accessories and collectibles while also exploring your personal style without spending a fortune. It offers the double benefit of saving money and reducing waste. I mean, what's not to love? Bangkok’s vintage scene has something for every style and budget. From curated high-end selections to thrifted gems priced by weight, these stores offer a mix of nostalgia, craftsmanship and sustainable fashion. Here’s a roundup of some of the best spots to explore, from hidden gems to well-loved favourites.

The centre of it all – Asoke, or Sukhumvit Soi 21 – is a bustling area home to hordes of office workers and foreign tourists. The iconic intersection is surrounded by commercial buildings like Interchange and Exchange Tower, hotels like Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit and Westin Grande Sukhumvit, retail malls such as Terminal 21 and Robinson as well as the Korean Town community space. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors and easily accessible by the BTS Asoke and MRT Sukhumvit. When it comes to dining, the options here may be more understated compared to other areas, but if you take a closer look, you’ll uncover hidden gems – from cafes to international restaurants. Here are some must-visit spots to enjoy a delightful meal. 

Coming up is one of Thailand's biggest festivals, celebrating the Thai New Year in an energetic and joyful way. There are many ways to take part in the Songkran festivities, but the most iconic tradition is hitting the streets for a water fight with friends and even strangers. For those seeking a different experience, travelling to other provinces – especially the beaches – offers a perfect mix of relaxation and fun. But are you ready? Is your bag packed with summer-ready outfits? A  familiar face in the Thai fashion business, Polpat Asavaprapha, founder and designer of Asava Group and chairman of Bangkok Fashion Society (BFS) shares his thoughts on getting into the Songkran festive mood through outfits. ‘This Songkran, I think the trend will be all about vivid colours. Floral prints are always a classic, but I have a feeling elephant patterns will be popular this year too. Mixing prints – like pairing florals with stripes – can make your look stand out instead of sticking to just one pattern.’   ‘Clashing prints makes it even more fun because Songkran is all about joy and celebration. Experimenting with your look will add to the excitement of the holiday.’ Chatuchak market, Platinum fashion mall, and the Train night market are great go-to spots for an easy and convenient outfit hunt. But if you're looking to add a stylish touch to your holiday wardrobe while supporting local talent, here’s a list of Thai brands worth checking out.

Phrom Phong, known for its luxury shopping and trendy cafes, is also home to some of Bangkok’s most exciting bars. With a blend of elegance and laid-back charm, the area is a hotspot for cocktail enthusiasts and night owls alike. From rooftop lounges with stunning skyline views to hidden speakeasies, Phrom Phong brings a variety of bar concepts together in one neighbourhood. There’s no better way to dive into a city’s nightlife than by hopping from one bar to the next, discovering heady cocktails, cosy atmospheres and hidden gems along the way. And in Bangkok, Phrom Phong is the ultimate bar-hopping destination. So, now is the time to grab your friends, pace yourself and explore this dynamic drinking district. Here are our picks to get you started.

Modern resort cool with earthy vibes, Mitr drops its new store in Siam Paragon. Decorated in soothing earth tones, the cosy space matches Mitr’s chill wardrobe. Their collection features ruffles and relaxed, loose styles, plus accessories like bags, charms, belts, comfy flats and big scrunchies, which are very on-trend right now. Spotted on Lisa Blackpink playing Mook in The White Lotus series, one breezy dress even made a casual date cameo. Now you can recreate the look for your next beachy escape. 3/F Siam Paragon, Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan. 097-152-4902. Open daily 10am-10pm.

Having opened just last month, the new Imnotamorningperson flagship store brings an edgy yet casual vibe to Asoke. The brand has grown across online platforms and this low-key cool spot reflects its edgy-but-effortless vibe. The space is styled like a cosy home in which you can actually kick back while shopping. Their racks are stacked with satin skirts, laid-back jeans, breezy sundresses and yes – a polka dot piece or two to be on trend. It's the kind of place where sleepy girls with sharp style go to wake up their wardrobe. 2F Asoke Court, Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana. Open Mon-Sat 11am-7pm Monday 11am-5pm.  

The Bangkok-born brand has hit its stride, with a new space at One Bangkok that feels more like a curated daydream than a clothes shop. Oversized tees hang beside bags that look like they’ve escaped from a graphic novel. There’s a sense of mischief threaded through the details – logos that flirt, colours that don’t apologise, cartoon collaborations (Monchhichi) that resist irony by being too earnest to mock. It’s unisex, but not in the smug, shouty way. The styling is sharp but doesn’t demand attention. Instead, it lingers – playful, confident, not afraid to stand next to the big names and grin.  G/F, One Bangkok, Witthayu Rd. Open daily from 10am-10pm

Thai menswear label Painkiller Atelier is built on the belief that ‘Design + Craftsmanship can heal.’ Now opening its new store at The Mall Lifestore Ngamwongwan, the brand blends soft and strong, emotion and edge, with every stitch telling a story. Not just an ethically-minded brand, Painkiller balances refined tailoring with raw feeling. From crisp shirts and tailored trousers to statement jackets, each piece is designed to move, resonate and last. If you’re into fashion with depth, this is your next stop.  2/F The Mall Lifestyle Ngamwongwan, Ngamwongwan Rd, Bang Khen, Mueang Nonthaburi. Open daily Mon-Fri 10am-9pm Sat-Sun 10am-10pm. 

Oversized suits, long-line trousers, boxy shirts – TwoTwice is a rising Thai label that nails that cool, gender-fluid look. Designed for girls who love a boyish edge, the brand blends clean tailoring with a street-smart attitude. Now open at Emsphere, the store’s red walls catch your eye, but it’s the racks of slick fits, versatile bags and punchy accessories that’ll keep you browsing. It’s also a celeb favourite, spotted on countless Thai style stars. If you’re looking to level up your wardrobe like them, this is your move. 1/F Emsphere, Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei. Open daily 10am-10pm. 

South Korea’s hit streetwear brand Covernat has opened its first Thai flagship in Bangkok, bringing a signature mix of minimal design and playful detail to local fashion fans. Loved by K-celebs and Chinese actors alike, the brand has built serious buzz with its clean-cut basics. Their most recognisable designs are the printed logo and graphic tees, leaning into the ‘new basic’ vibe – simple, wearable pieces. A viral favourite among teens, uni students and young pros, Covernat is all about looking cool without trying too hard. 2F Siam Square One, Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan. 082-224-1965. Open daily 10.30am-9pm. 

Chinese lifestyle brand Beneunder has officially arrived in Bangkok with its first flagship store in Thailand. Known for its sleek blend of fashion and function, the brand offers UPF-protective clothing, AntiTech umbrellas, and sun hats that shield against UVA and UVB rays – all without compromising on style. Beneunder is built for people who care about both skin protection and looking polished on the go. Already a favourite in China, Beneunder is fast winning fans across Asia – and now you can explore it in Bangkok, just in time for the next heatwave.  2/F Centralworld, Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan. Open daily 10am-10pm.

Originating in Paris, loved in Seoul and now landing in Bangkok, beloved label Marithe + Francois Girbaud has just opened its first flagship in Southeast Asia – right here in Bangkok. Loved for its cool blend of French streetwear and sporty casual style, the brand has become a wardrobe staple throughout Korea. The new store features their main line, the Mouvement athleisure collection (ideal for golf and tennis), plus a Kids line with mini-me styles for the whole family. The interior brings together sleek curves in natural wood with brushed steel accents – best described as Parisian chic with a modern twist. M/F Emsphere, Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei. Open daily 10am-10pm. 

Prada has opened its biggest store in Thailand at Emporium, covering a massive 925 square metres. It’s also the most complete in terms of offerings – clothing, bags, shoes, fragrances, homeware and even high jewellery are all here under one roof. Design-wise, the boutique keeps things very on-point with the Prada identity: pastel green tones throughout, a curved glass front etched with the brand’s triangle motif and black-and-white chequered marble flooring inspired by its first shop in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.  M/F Emporium, Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei. Open daily 10am-8pm. 

Bringing warm wood tones in contrast with terrazzo, Bottega Veneta’s new concept store at Siam Paragon will draw you in. The space feels more like a quiet museum than a retail store – each item displayed as if it’s a piece of design history. From womenswear to menswear and accessories to candles, the collection is curated by season to help visitors elevate their wardrobes. Every inch of the store reflects Bottega’s attention to detail and whispers luxury. M/F Siam Paragon, Rama I Road, Pathumwan. 02-129-4394. Open daily 10am-9pm. 

Say bonjour to AMI Paris’s brand-new flagship in Bangkok. The store features the Spring-Summer 2025 collection for all genders, alongside a sleek new concept inspired by the brand’s iconic Le Marais location. Channelling quiet luxury, the space is adorned with clean white walls, light and dark wood flooring, sculptural stone accents, and beige-toned furniture – all reflecting a minimal aesthetic that mirrors the relaxed elegance of a Paris apartment. 1/F Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd, Pathum Wan. 02-160-5688. Open daily 10am-9pm.

Tucked behind the gloss of some of Bangkok’s better-known Siam Square haunts is a quiet two-storey corner that feels like a love letter to Seoul on a Sunday. Clean silhouettes line the racks – soft tailoring, pleated skirts, shirts with just enough slouch. There’s a deliberate restraint to the palette until, suddenly, a jolt of electric lime or traffic-cone orange interrupts the calm. It’s all very curated but never stiff. Apart from clothes, shoes, bags and hats are arranged with the kind of precision usually reserved for museum displays. There’s even a photo sticker booth, because of course there is. Siam Square Soi 5, Khwaeng Pathum Wan, Pathum Wan. Open Mon-Fri from midday-9pm and Sat-Sun 11am-9pm

Fifteen powerful films. Nine countries. One loud and proud message: equality matters. From 27 June to 6 July, the Bangkok LGBTQ+ Film Festival is ready to celebrate love, identity and queerness in all forms – just in time for Thailand’s historic marriage equality bill. Curated by Baturu, a global platform pushing for equality through art, the festival spotlights LGBTQ+ voices across Asia while bringing in standout picks from New Zealand, Sweden, Japan, Nepal and more.  Special screenings will take place across Bangkok at Goethe-Institut Thailand, Jim Thompson Art Center, Slowcombo and Buffalo Bridge Gallery, alongside talks, workshops and Q&As with international filmmakers and producers. Global screenings The lineup releases 15 films – raw, fearless and pushing boundaries to celebrate queer voices. Queer Japan (2019) The film rummages through Japan’s LGBTQ+ underground, spotlighting artists, activists and outsiders living loud and breaking norms. Rurangi (2020) Directed by Max Currie, Rurangi follows trans activist Caz returning to his divided hometown to face his estranged father. It’s about relationships, identity and the strength of finding acceptance. Enfant Terrible (2020) A documentary exploring the world of Rainer Werner Fassbinder – the rebellious director who redefined New Wave cinema and queer culture.   Rebel Dykes (2021) A raw documentary capturing punk-fueled feminism through the wild lives of ’80s London lesbians. Prejudice and Pride (2022) Swedish documentary t

Brace yourselves, Thai VIPs. After years of near-silence, the K-pop icon G-Dragon has officially announced his long-awaited return to the stage. Bangkok finds itself front and centre on the second phase of his Ubermensch world tour.  G-Dragon, the soloist and style icon of K-pop powerhouse BigBang, is known for his rap flow and kaleidoscopic fashion sense. The king of cool returned after a seven-year, four-month hiatus with his single ‘Power’, released on October 31. The drop sparked a full-blown storm across the Korean entertainment scene. Before that, no one really knew what his next move would be – or when we’d ever see him on stage again. Sure, he recently made a brief stop in Thailand, performing as part of a K-pop lineup at K-Star Spark in Bangkok, but it felt more like a teaser than a return. But just as the buzz began to settle, he lit the fuse once more. This time on a global scale with the announcement of his world tour. When is G-Dragon’s world tour in Bangkok? Though the poster states that G-Dragon will take over Rajamangala National stadium for one night on August 2 2025, he confirmed on his Instagram that the show will actually span one more night, extending to August 3. Exact times and ticketing details are expected to drop soon. Setlist  The official setlist has yet to be confirmed, fans are already deep in speculation mode. With a catalogue stacked with iconic tracks, there’s plenty to choose from. What’s certain is that songs from his new album Ubermensch wi

After years of delays, Bangkok’s long-awaited city plan is finally gaining momentum. Initially drafted in 2013 and slated for implementation in 2019, the plan was put on hold after the Ministry of Interior called for a more thorough review of water and environmental zoning issues. Now, Deputy Governor Wisanu Subsompon has announced that the fourth revision is around 70% complete and expected to be submitted to the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning (DPT) later this month. The next steps include fine-tuning land-use color codes, conducting additional public consultations, and navigating the approval process through the DPT’s urban planning panel. Once approved, the plan will proceed to the Bangkok Provincial Planning Committee before being released for a 90-day public review period, during which stakeholders can provide feedback or request changes. Despite this progress, the new plan isn’t expected to take effect until 2027. In the meantime, Bangkok’s development will continue to follow the 2013 blueprint. While the city’s future landscape edges closer to transformation, the process remains firmly rooted in careful planning and public review.

Sure, we all lean heavily on those delivery apps – they’re a daily fixture for many in Bangkok. But the app boom has been a double-edged sword for the local motorcycle taxi drivers and neighbourhood food vendors who aren't plugged into the big platforms.  Now, an initiative is trying to address this. Two new platforms, ‘Nong Khoei Maa Tao Rue’ (which loosely translates to ‘How much did you pay for your last ride?’) and ‘Taam Sang-Taam Song’ (‘Order & Deliver’), have entered the scene. The aim is to provide an alternative route for these drivers and small community vendors to access the digital marketplace and, hopefully, find more stable footing. A key part of their approach? They were reportedly co-designed with actual motorcycle taxi drivers, shop owners and community food sellers to try and make them straightforward. Users can access them via a dedicated mobile app or, for those less keen on navigating new app interfaces, a Line Chat Bot. The main pitch for drivers is a zero commission fee structure – a notable difference from some established players. The platforms also use an algorithm intended to prioritise the nearest available driver in a queuing system, aiming for fairer job distribution. For local eateries and shops, this model also means no hefty commission fees are deducted from their earnings. Instead, it operates on a co-contribution system where the restaurant, the rider and the customer each contribute a small amount, reportedly around B5-B6 per order. The ide

A tale as old as time, reborn through Thai eyes and global screens – Onethong (Working Title) is Thailand’s next cinematic obsession. Onethong, a reimagining of the classic Thai epic poem, Khun Chang Khun Phaen, has just dropped its first teaser poster at the 78th Cannes Film Festival’s Marché du Film. As one of only five Thai projects selected to represent the country, Onethong made its international debut at the Producers Network Breakfast Meeting, the film drew attention from international distributors and cinephiles alike.  A film from Black Dragon Entertainment, Onethong follows its namesake heroine in a time when women must marry to secure their future. As she is caught in a love triangle between Khun Chang and Khun Phaen.  But this Onethong isn’t your traditional retelling. Inspired by the contemporary graphic novel Ratiros Mai Num Pa – a modern adaptation of Khun Chang Khun Phaen – the story follows Pimmada, a present-day woman who suddenly finds herself transported into the world of Onethong. Trapped in a love triangle that isn’t hers, she must navigate the fate of a woman caught between two men, fighting to survive and to rewrite her own ending.  The film is directed by Piyakarn Bootprasert and produced by Julian Jeong, whose past work includes Snowpiercer (2013), The Host (2006) and the Oscar-winning Parasite (2019). Onethong is also one of the films that received production funding from the Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture and the Thailand Cre