Hungry, but not in the mood to cook? Same. Luckily, there are a number of fast-food joints serving up delectable vegan options. From Panera Bread to Del Taco and McDonald’s (yep, even McDonald’s!)—here is our complete guide to all things vegan fast food. (Your grumbling belly can thank us later.)
The ultimate guide to the best vegan fast food
Taco Bell
From breakfast to dinner and everything in between, eating vegan at Taco Bell is easy. Opt for crispy hash browns and an iced coffee (just ask for plant milk). Or dig into a protein-packed veggie bowl, which is loaded with beans, rice, guac, and lettuce. Feeling adventurous? Add in some jalapeños if you can take the heat. Taco Bell’s bean burrito is a savory go-to vegan snack, sans the cheese. For something heartier, try the Black Bean Crunchwrap Supreme without the sour cream and nacho cheese sauce. Still hungry? Order a side of black beans and rice.
Del Taco
Can’t get enough beans and rice? Head on over to Del Taco. The fast-food chain just might top Taco Bell as the best place to get vegan Mexican-inspired food on the go (don’t @ us). In 2019, Del Taco launched Beyond Meat plant-based beef, officially taking its vegan menu to the next level. Stuff your face with a Beyond 8 Layer Burrito (order without cheese and sour cream), a Beyond Avocado Taco, or a taco salad. Or, just order all of the above. We won’t judge.
McDonald’s
The most well-known fast-food restaurant on the planet, McDonald’s does have a few vegan-friendly options on its menu. McDonald’s Canada offers bagels, smoothies, and more. McDonald’s UK has an entirely vegan menu and their fries are beef-free. Down Under, vegan options include English muffins and salad. Sadly, if you’re stateside, pickings are slim. McD’s… please do better.
Carl’s Jr.
Vegan charbroiled burger? We’ll take two. This burger joint rolled out Beyond Meat vegan patties in 2019. And in less than a year, Carl’s Jr. sold 4.5 million burgers featuring the meatless patty. The plant-based patties can be substituted for beef or chicken in any of the chain’s burgers or sandwiches. And yes, the fries are vegan.
Burger King
Impossible Whopper sans mayo, french fries, and a side salad? Now this is what lunch dreams are made of. Burger King even has substantial vegan breakfast offerings. The chain’s Dutch apple pies, hash browns, oatmeal (order water in place of milk), and French toast sticks are all vegan-friendly.
Panda Express
In July, Panda Express launched Beyond The Original Orange Chicken at select locations in New York and Los Angeles. But we’ve got our fingers crossed this plant-based orange chicken will be made available in all cities (very) soon. What else is vegan on the menu? Veggie spring rolls, eggplant tofu, chow mein, and more.
Chipotle
In the mood for a burrito or bowl? Head on over to Chipotle. The chain has countless fixings to load on top of a tortilla: fajita veggies, rice, beans, salsa, guac, and even sofritas, which is seasoned shredded tofu. Don’t forget to order a side of tortilla chips. You won’t regret it.
Panera Bread
Purveyors of artisan bread and crave-worthy pastries, Panera Bread isn’t without vegan options. For breakfast, opt for a bagel, oatmeal, or smoothie. And for lunch and dinner—soup, salads, or a tasty grain bowl minus the dairy. The Mediterranean Grain Bowl features cilantro lime rice, quinoa, arugula, tomatoes, and more.
Subway
Veggie footlong, bag of chips, and a refreshing beverage? Lunch is served. Subway’s sundry bread offerings include Italian, Harvest, Sourdough, and more. Or, opt for a spinach wrap. Load with your favorite veggies (banana peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, pickles, spinach, avocado) and enjoy.
