This spring, Vancouver said goodbye to one of its most beloved and long-standing family-run Thai restaurants when SalaThai closed its doors at the end of April.

Owners Sam and Joy Kongslip gave their hearts and talents to the restaurant and, after an incredible 38 years, were ready to retire.

However, the spirit of SalaThai will carry on through an exciting forthcoming next-gen venture called Jay Nok Modern Thai.

Jay Nok, which is moving into the former Flying Pig space at 127 W 2nd Ave in Olympic Village, is looking to open its doors in early 2025.

The new restaurant remains a Kongslip family venture; Sam and Joy’s son, Bobby, will serve as General Manager of the new venture.

Bobby will be joined by Project Manager Margarita Virata Santos and Executive Chef Bumpen “Jay Nok” Khangrang, who not only has worked in her native Thailand but also was in the kitchen at SalaThai.

Jay Nok further reflects a contemporary vision in its concept, which is rooted in the lively tradition of Thai street food and drink. The new restaurant will continue SalaThai’s legacy of honouring Thai culture and the joy of being together to eat and drink and engaging in Thailand’s famed “Sanuk” (the concept of enjoyment and fun).

To that end, the plan is for Jay Nok to be open for lunch and dinner, shifting menus and modes based on the time of day. For lunch, diners can visit Jay Nok to experience a fast-casual atmosphere perfect for shorter sojourns. Come evening, however, Jay Nok will be a dynamic hub for social gatherings, perfect for a night out with friends, family, co-workers, or dates – complete with cocktails. 

With work underway to transform the vacated space in Olympic Village into Jay Nok, the Kongslips – who in October were honoured as “Industry Pioneers” by the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame – are delighted to have a way to keep the SalaThai legacy going. 

“Handing over the reins to the next generation is a proud moment for me,” said Joy Kongslip in a media release. “SalaThai was built on a foundation of family, tradition, and love for Thai cuisine. Jay Nok reflects those same values but with a fresh, innovative vision. I couldn’t be happier to see the next generation bring our family’s legacy to life in a way that resonates with today’s diners.” 

Follow Jay Nok Modern Thai @jaynokthai on Instagram.

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