Top Fast Food Places With Vegan Options
Top Fast Food Places With Vegan Options For Every Craving
Fast-food companies are adding easy and tasty vegan choices to their menus in response to the growing demand for plant-based meals.
Whether on the go or simply craving a quick bite, these fast food joints now offer delicious vegan alternatives to traditional favourites.
This article examines the top fast-food restaurants serving vegan food, simplifying savouring a delicious, cruelty-free meal.
Menu items include wraps, salads, burgers, and fries, making it easier than ever to find fast food places with vegan options that suit your taste.
Tips For Ordering Vegan At Fast-Food Chains
Ordering vegan at fast-food chains can be a breeze if you know what to look for and how to customize your meal.
Here are some tips to help you navigate the menu and enjoy a satisfying vegan meal on the go:
1. Research Ahead
Before heading out, check the chain’s menu online or use apps that highlight vegan options. Many fast-food chains now offer dedicated vegan items, and doing a little research will help you identify these options quickly.
2. Customize Your Order
You can often customize existing menu options if the restaurant doesn’t have specific vegan items.
For example, you can order a veggie burger without the cheese and mayo or ask for a salad without meat or dairy-based dressings.
Don’t hesitate to ask the staff about substitutions; many are happy to accommodate dietary preferences.
3. Watch Out For Hidden Ingredients
Even seemingly vegan items can contain hidden animal products like dairy, eggs, or honey. Always double-check the ingredients, especially in sauces, dressings, and baked goods. Opt for simple toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and avocado, which are usually safe.
4. Opt For Sides And Snacks
Many fast-food restaurants include vegan-friendly sides that can be converted vegan with simple tweaks.
Think French fries, baked potatoes (without butter or sour cream), or fruit cups. Some chains also offer oatmeal, apple slices, or guacamole as vegan-friendly options.
5. Ask For Plant-Based Alternatives
More fast-food chains are introducing plant-based alternatives like Beyond Meat or Impossible patties.
Don’t be shy to ask if these are available. Ensure they are cooked separately from animal products to avoid cross-contamination.
6. Be Prepared To Improvise
In some cases, you might have to get creative. Combining a few sides or modifying a dish can result in a satisfying vegan meal. With a little flexibility, you can make almost any fast-food experience vegan-friendly.
Fast Food Places With Vegan Options
Many fast-food chains now offer vegan options, making grabbing a quick, plant-based meal easier. Here are some popular fast-food chains with vegan-friendly choices:
1. Burger King
Burger King offers several vegan-friendly options, making it easier for plant-based eaters to find something satisfying. The Impossible Whopper is a highlight of their vegan menu.
It features a plant-based patty from Beyond Meat, served with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions on a sesame seed bun. To keep it vegan, request it without mayo, as the standard preparation includes it.
Another option is the French Fries, which are vegan-friendly. Nevertheless, it's important to remember that cross-contamination could happen because they might be fried in the same oil as non-vegan foods.
Burger King Vegan Menu Highlights
- Impossible Whopper: Plant-based patty with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions (hold the mayo).
- French Fries: Crispy and vegan-friendly (may share a fryer with non-vegan items).
- Garden Side Salad: Fresh greens with a choice of vegan dressings.
- Hash Browns: A tasty breakfast side option (verify preparation for cross-contamination).
2. Taco Bell
Taco Bell offers a variety of vegan-friendly options that make it easy to enjoy a plant-based meal. The Bean Burrito is a popular choice in the “fresco style,” which replaces cheese with pico de gallo. Adding guacamole or potatoes can enhance the flavour and texture of this classic burrito.
Another great option is the Veggie Power Bowl, a hearty bowl filled with rice, beans, lettuce, and guacamole. For a fully vegan meal, skip the cheese and sour cream.
Taco Bell Vegan Menu Highlights
- Bean Burrito (Fresco Style): Beans, rice, lettuce, and pico de gallo (no cheese).
- Veggie Power Bowl: Rice, beans, lettuce, guacamole, and veggies (no cheese or sour cream).
- Crunchy Taco (Fresco Style): Replace cheese with pico de gallo for a vegan-friendly taco.
- Soft Taco (Fresco Style): Beans, lettuce, and pico de gallo in a soft taco shell (no cheese).
- Black Beans and Rice: A simple and vegan side option.
3. Subway
Subway offers a range of vegan options, making it easy for plant-based eaters to enjoy a customizable sandwich or salad.
The Veggie Delite Sandwich is popular, packed with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers.
You can choose from vegan-friendly bread options like Italian or hearty Italian and add a variety of sauces, such as mustard or oil and vinegar, to suit your taste.
At some locations, you can also enjoy the Beyond Meatball Marinara Sub, which features plant-based meatballs with marinara sauce. Be sure to request it without cheese and select vegan bread to keep it entirely plant-based.
Subway Vegan Menu Highlights
- Veggie Delite Sandwich: Fresh veggies on vegan-friendly bread (Italian or Hearty Italian).
- Beyond Meatball Marinara Sub: Plant-based meatballs with marinara sauce (no cheese).
- Veggie Patty: Available at some locations (verify ingredients to ensure it’s vegan).
- Fresh Salads: Customize with a variety of veggies and vegan dressings.
- Vegan Bread Options: Italian and Hearty Italian.
4. Chipotle
Chipotle offers several vegan-friendly options that allow you to customize your meal to fit your plant-based diet.
The Vegan Bowl is popular. It provides a customizable rice base, beans, veggies, salsa, and guacamole. Add Sofritas, a spicy tofu option that adds flavour and texture to your bowl for a protein boost.
Another versatile option is the Vegan Burrito, filled with rice, beans, vegetables, salsa, and guacamole, with Sofritas for added protein. Chipotle’s Chips and Guac are also a great way to enjoy a snack or side with your meal.
Chipotle Vegan Menu Highlights
- Vegan Bowl: Rice, beans, veggies, salsa, guacamole, and Sofritas.
- Vegan Burrito: Rice, beans, veggies, salsa, guacamole, and Sofritas (or other protein options).
- Chips and Guac: Crispy chips with guacamole.
- Chips and Salsa: Fresh salsa with crispy chips.
- Vegetarian Sofritas: Spicy tofu options are available in bowls and burritos.
5. Del Taco
Del Taco offers various delicious vegan options catering to plant-based diets. The Beyond Avocado Taco is a standout choice, featuring Beyond Meat crumbles, fresh lettuce, and creamy avocado wrapped in a soft taco shell.
This taco provides a satisfying and flavorful option for those looking to enjoy a quick and nutritious meal.
The Epic Beyond Cali Burrito is a hearty choice for a more substantial option. This burrito includes
Beyond Meat crumbles, crispy fries, guacamole, and pico de gallo. To keep it vegan, request no sour cream or cheese. Combining ingredients makes a filling and flavorful meal perfect for a hearty appetite.
Del Taco Vegan Menu Highlights
- Beyond Avocado Taco: Beyond Meat crumbles, lettuce, and avocado in a soft taco shell.
- Epic Beyond Cali Burrito: Meat, fries, guacamole, and pico de gallo (hold the sour cream and cheese).
- Crispy Potato Soft Taco: Potatoes, lettuce, and salsa in a soft taco shell (check for dairy in the sauce).
- Fries: Crispy and vegan-friendly.
6. McDonald’s
McDonald’s is increasingly catering to plant-based diets, with some standout options. One notable addition is the McPlant Burger, created in collaboration with Beyond Meat.
This burger features a plant-based patty designed to mimic the taste and texture of beef. It's served with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions on a sesame seed bun. To make the McPlant Burger fully vegan, request no mayo and cheese.
For a lighter, nutritious option, try the Fruit & Maple Oatmeal. This dish includes oats combined with diced apples, cranberries, and raisins.
It’s a wholesome choice for breakfast or a snack, but ask for it without cream to ensure it’s vegan.
McDonald’s Vegan Menu Highlights
- McPlant Burger: Plant-based patty with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions (no mayo or cheese).
- Fruit & Maple Oatmeal: Oats, apples, cranberries, and raisins (no cream).
- Hash Browns: Crispy and vegan-friendly, ideal for a quick snack.
- Apple Slices: A fresh, healthy, vegan snack option.
- Soft Drinks and Coffee: Beverages are typically vegan; confirm with the staff about any added ingredients.
7. Wendy’s
Wendy’s offers several vegan-friendly options that cater to plant-based diets. The Baked Potato is satisfying and provides a simple and filling meal. It’s available plain or with chives, but skip the butter, cheese, and sour cream to keep it vegan.
Another versatile option is the side salad. It includes a variety of fresh vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots.
For a vegan-friendly salad, request no cheese and choose from dressings like lemon juice or pomegranate vinaigrette, free from animal products.
Wendy’s Vegan Menu Highlights
- Baked Potato: Plain or with chives (no butter, cheese, or sour cream).
- Side Salad: Fresh veggies; choose lemon juice or pomegranate vinaigrette.
- French Fries: Classic fries; be aware of potential fryer cross-contamination.
- Apple Bites: A fresh, vegan-friendly snack option.
- Plain Baked Potato (Small): Also available as a smaller serving.
8. Domino’s
Domino’s has expanded its menu to include vegan-friendly options, making it easier for plant-based eaters to enjoy their meals.
The Vegan Pizza is a standout option, available at select locations. You can customize it with vegan cheese and choose from vegetable toppings such as mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and spinach.
Opt for the thin crust to ensure the base is vegan, as the traditional crust may contain dairy. For a heartier meal, consider their Pasta offerings.
You can order the pasta in a bowl with marinara sauce and add a generous amount of vegetables for a satisfying vegan meal. Be sure to request no cheese or meat to keep it entirely plant-based.
Domino’s Vegan Menu Highlights
- Vegan Pizza: Choose vegan cheese, thin crust, and a range of veggie toppings.
- Pasta Bowl: Pasta with marinara sauce and veggies (no cheese or meat).
- Breadsticks: Some locations offer vegan breadsticks; check with your store.
- Garlic Bread: Verify with the staff if it's vegan at your location.
9. Panda Express
Panda Express offers some tasty vegan options that cater to plant-based diets. The Super Greens is a standout choice, featuring a nutritious mix of broccoli, kale, and cabbage.
This simple and flavorful dish makes it a great side or main option for those seeking a fresh and healthy meal.
Another hearty vegan option is the Eggplant Tofu. This dish combines tender tofu with eggplant in a sweet and spicy sauce, creating a satisfying and flavourful meal. However, availability may vary by location, so it's best to confirm with your local Panda Express.
Panda Express Vegan Menu Highlights
- Super Greens: A fresh blend of broccoli, kale, and cabbage.
- Eggplant Tofu: Tofu and eggplant in a sweet and spicy sauce (availability may vary).
- Steamed Rice: A simple and vegan-friendly side.
- Brown Rice: A vegan substitute for white rice that is also healthier.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables (check for non-vegan ingredients).
10. Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut has made it easier for vegans to enjoy a delicious pizza experience with a few key options. The Vegan Pizza is available at select locations and features vegan cheese.
Various veggie toppings, including bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and spinach, can be added to your pizza. Choose the thin crust to ensure it’s fully vegan, as the traditional crust may contain dairy.
For a sweet treat, try the Cinnamon Sticks. These are vegan-friendly; ask for them without the icing to keep them plant-based.
Pizza Hut Vegan Menu Highlights
- Vegan Pizza: Customize with vegan cheese, thin crust, and veggie toppings.
- Cinnamon Sticks: Vegan-friendly when ordered without icing.
- Breadsticks: Some locations offer vegan breadsticks; check with your store.
- Garden Salad: Fresh vegetables with vegan dressing options (verify dressings are plant-based).
11. A&W
A&W offers delicious options for those following a vegan diet. The Beyond Burger is a standout choice, featuring a plant-based patty crafted by Beyond Meat.
It has lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions on a bun. To ensure the burger is vegan, simply ask for it without mayo, as it contains eggs.
This burger provides a satisfying alternative to traditional beef patties, delivering taste and texture appealing to vegans and non-vegans alike.
For a side, Sweet Potato Fries are a great option. They are crispy and entirely vegan-friendly, making them perfect for your meal.
A&W Vegan Menu Highlights
- Beyond Burger: Plant-based patty with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions (hold the mayo).
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and vegan-friendly fries.
- Root Beer: A classic, vegan beverage option.
- Regular Fries: Check if they are cooked in a separate fryer to avoid cross-contamination.
12. Dunkin’
Dunkin’ has expanded its menu to include vegan-friendly options, making it a convenient stop for plant-based eaters.
The Beyond Sausage Sandwich features a Beyond Meat sausage patty, offering a satisfying alternative to traditional sausage.
To make it vegan, request it without the egg and cheese and pair it with an English muffin or bagel. This customization lets you enjoy a hearty breakfast sandwich that fits your dietary preferences.
On the side, the Hash Browns are a great choice. These crispy golden potatoes are vegan-friendly and make a tasty complement to your meal.
Dunkin’ Vegan Menu Highlights
- Beyond Sausage Sandwich: Beyond Meat sausage patty on an English muffin or bagel (no egg or cheese).
- Hash Browns: Crispy and vegan-friendly.
- Vegan Beverages: Almond, oat, or coconut milk in coffee, lattes, or tea.
- Bagels: Some locations offer vegan bagels; check with your store.
FAQ
1. How Can I Make Sure My Fast Food Order Is Truly Vegan?
Answer: When ordering, ask for items without animal products, such as dairy, eggs, or meat. Most chains allow customization, so you can omit non-vegan ingredients and substitute them with plant-based options.
2. Are Plant-Based Meats At Fast Food Chains Healthier?
Answer: Plant-based meats can provide a healthier alternative to traditional meats, as they typically contain lower cholesterol and saturated fat. However, they can still be high in sodium, so enjoying them in moderation is important.
3. Can I Find Vegan Options At Fast Food Chains While Travelling Internationally?
Answer: Many international fast-food chains offer vegan options, though availability may vary by country. Research local menus or use apps like HappyCow to find vegan-friendly fast food options when travelling.
4. What Are Some Tips For Eating Vegan At Fast Food Restaurants?
Answer: Check the restaurant's website or app for a vegan menu or customization options, ask for sauces or dressings on the side, and don't hesitate to ask the staff for assistance creating a vegan-friendly meal.
Conclusion
When exploring fast food places with vegan options, it's clear that plant-based eating is more accessible than ever before.
Whether you're on the go or craving something quick and satisfying, many vegan-friendly choices are available.
From burgers and tacos to salads and wraps, fast food chains are evolving to meet the demand for healthier, cruelty-free meals.
Next time you're out and about, remember that you don't have to compromise your values or health—fast food places with vegan options make it easier to stay on track while enjoying the convenience of eating out.
I trust you enjoyed this article about Top Fast Food Places With Vegan Options. Please stay tuned for more blog posts soon. Take care!
JeannetteZ
>>>Please click here to read my Vegan Travel Guides To World Destinations<<<
>>>Want To Learn How To Create Delicious, Cruelty-Free, Healthy AND 100% Vegan Meals? Try These Awesome Vegan Cooking Courses With A Free 7-DAY MEMBERSHIP<<<
Your Opinion Is Important To Me
Do you have thoughts, ideas, or questions? I would love to hear from you. Please leave me your questions, experiences, and remarks about the article Top Fast Food Places With Vegan Options in the comments section below. You can also email me at Jeannette@LivingTheVeganLifestyle.org.
Disclosure
This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate and other affiliate programs. Please read my full disclosure.
Here are links to some of my favourite articles:
Ultimate Vegan Recipes For Potlucks
The Ultimate Guide To Vegan Travel Foods
Delicious And Versatile Textured Vegan Protein Recipes
Vegan Breastfeeding – Nourishing Your Baby And Yourself With Plant-Based Goodness
Plant-Based Diet vs Vegan Diet: A Comprehensive Guide To Choosing The Right Diet