Vegan Local Life in Bangkok: Back-Alley Eats, Thong Lor Cafés, and Gentle City Slow Travel

Simple life in Bangkok

Bangkok can overwhelm even the most seasoned traveler—until you decide to slow down. We spent a month living like locals in quiet neighbourhoods away from the Khao San chaos. Part 1 and Part 2 of our “Living Like a Local” series captured exactly that: morning markets, BTS rides to tucked-away spots, and zero pressure to see everything. If you haven’t seen it yet, you can check it out on our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@Santai_life

Our favourite ritual? Hunting vegan food in the back alleys of Talat Phlu and Wutthakat. Think crispy tofu, fiery papaya salad (without the dried shrimp), and fresh coconut water sipped from the shell. Then we hit the cool cafés: Earth House and Nature’s Charm in Thong Lor, Plantiful, Brocooli Revolution, and the plant-based magic at EKM6 and Kyndes Kulture in Ekkamai. Golden State delivered the creamiest vegan matcha lattes we’ve ever had.

Amazing vegan feast at Golden State in Thong Lor

We even turned one afternoon into a gouache sketching session by the canal—travel sketching is our secret weapon for staying present. Bangkok isn’t about rushing between temples; it’s about finding your favourite soi (alley), claiming a plastic stool, and watching life flow by.

Vegan explorer pro tip for Bangkok: Download the “HappyCow” app but also just wander. The city’s street vendors are surprisingly accommodating once you learn the magic words “gin jay” (vegan/vegetarian). Bring a reusable bag for market hauls of fresh mango and dragonfruit.

And remember: the best meal is often the one you eat sitting on a tiny stool with zero Wi-Fi.