CentralWorld is one of the largest shopping complexes in Southeast Asia — a sprawling mix of department stores, lifestyle shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues spread across multiple interconnected buildings. The Isetan and Zen department stores anchor the complex; dozens of restaurant chains occupy the upper floors; and the outdoor plaza hosts Bangkok's main New Year countdown celebration each December.
The building was partially destroyed during the May 2010 political protests and rebuilt larger than before. The food court on the top floor of the Groove zone is among Bangkok's most varied, with everything from Thai regional food to Japanese izakaya. The complex connects via skywalk to Siam and Chit Lom BTS stations, making it the commercial heart of central Bangkok.