Bangkok has a strong vegetarian tradition — J (Jay) food, Buddhist restaurants, and a growing vegan scene.
Thai vegetarian food is marked with a yellow flag/sign reading 'เจ' (Jay) — rice-based, no meat, fish sauce, or animal products; authentic Buddhist vegetarianism.
During the Vegetarian Festival (9 days in October, usually) Bangkok temporarily becomes the easiest place in the world to eat vegan — Jay stalls on every corner.
Jay restaurants throughout Bangkok; Sukhumvit has several excellent vegan restaurants aimed at expats; Banglamphu (Khao San area) has many vegetarian-friendly cafes.
Standard Thai cooking uses fish sauce everywhere — saying 'mai sai nam pla' (no fish sauce) helps at market stalls; harder in restaurants where it's in sauces and marinades.
HappyCow app shows vegetarian and vegan restaurants worldwide including Bangkok — well-maintained listings with reviews.
