21 Popular Fast Food Spots That Quietly Went Vegan-Friendly

You might think of fast food as a no-go zone for plant-based eating—but these chains have quietly stepped up their game. Without shouting it from the rooftops, they’ve added menu options, customizations, or even full-on vegan items that make it easier than ever to grab something quick without compromising your lifestyle. Here are 21 mainstream spots that now offer surprisingly solid vegan-friendly eats.

1. Taco Bell

Taco Bell is the original champion of customizable vegan fast food. With a simple swap of beans for meat and removal of cheese and sour cream, fans can enjoy burritos, tacos, and Crunchwraps. A vibrant blend of flavors and textures awaits those willing to make minor tweaks.

Taco Bell’s menu offers an array of plant-based possibilities without sacrificing taste. For the adventurous, their spicy sauces add an extra kick. Did you know Taco Bell even won a PETA Libby Award for Best Vegan Menu? It’s a testament to their commitment to inclusivity.

2. Chipotle

Chipotle’s Sofritas, spicy braised tofu, is a delicious plant-based protein, making it an easy vegan win. With veggie fajitas and plant-based bowls, customization is key. Each order is a flavor adventure, offering vibrant combinations that cater to vegans.

Whether you’re building a bowl or wrapping a burrito, Chipotle allows for endless plant-based creativity. The freshness of ingredients shines through every bite. It’s interesting to note that Chipotle has been committed to sustainable sourcing, ensuring a meal that’s as ethical as it is tasty.

3. Burger King

Burger King’s Impossible Whopper is a plant-based sensation. To enjoy it vegan, simply hold the mayo. Their fries are vegan, too, making it a complete fast-food meal without compromise. The Impossible Whopper combines savory flavors with freshness.

The introduction of this burger marked a pivotal moment in fast-food history, showing Burger King’s dedication to evolving with dietary trends. It’s a fun tidbit that Burger King was one of the first major chains to offer a plant-based burger nationwide, setting a precedent for others.

4. Subway

Subway offers vegan-friendly options with several bread choices like Italian and 9-grain wheat. Many locations feature a veggie patty or plant-based protein, allowing customers to craft flavorful, satisfying sandwiches. Every sandwich is a personal creation.

Vegan toppings and sauces add flair and zest, ensuring no two visits are the same. Subway has quietly embraced the plant-based movement, letting customers take the reins in their dietary choices. An additional bonus? The chain’s environmental initiatives aim to reduce its carbon footprint.

5. Panda Express

Panda Express now serves vegan-friendly Beyond Orange Chicken at select locations, turning a classic dish plant-based. Veggie spring rolls, white rice, and super greens round out the vegan offerings, providing a balanced meal.

The introduction of Beyond Orange Chicken is a bold step into the plant-based market. Panda Express caters to evolving tastes without losing its iconic flavors. Fun fact: Panda Express was founded by Chinese immigrant Andrew Cherng, and it has grown into a global phenomenon.

6. Starbucks

Starbucks has embraced plant-based living with a range of non-dairy milk options like oat, almond, and soy. Pair these with their chickpea protein box or avocado spread on multigrain bread for a light, fulfilling meal.

This coffee giant has seamlessly integrated vegan options into its menu, offering both drinks and snacks. Did you know Starbucks was named after a character in Moby Dick? It symbolizes adventure, much like their progressive approach to vegan offerings.

7. Panera Bread

Panera Bread provides tweakable options for those leaning plant-based. Salads, grain bowls, and soups such as the black bean or Ten Vegetable Soup can easily become vegan with a few adjustments.

Each dish at Panera is crafted with a focus on taste and quality. Their commitment to fresh ingredients makes them a favorite among health-conscious diners. A quirky fact: Panera means “bread basket” in Latin, reflecting their expertise in baked goods and hearty meals.

8. Shake Shack

Shake Shack offers the Veggie Shack, made from real vegetables instead of imitation meats, at select locations. It’s accompanied by vegan crinkle fries and refreshing lemonades, creating a delightful fast-food experience.

The Veggie Shack stands out for its genuine vegetable content, appealing to those seeking more natural options. Shake Shack’s unique touch to fast food resonates with diners who appreciate authenticity. Did you know Shake Shack started as a hot dog cart in Madison Square Park? It’s grown while maintaining quality.

9. Blaze Pizza

Blaze Pizza allows customers to craft build-your-own pies with vegan cheese and spicy vegan chorizo. Each creation is a vibrant masterpiece, with a variety of vegetables and all doughs vegan except the gluten-free crust.

Every pizza is a personal adventure in flavor, highlighted by fresh and unique toppings. Blaze’s commitment to customization allows for endless creativity. Fun fact: Blaze Pizza is backed by LeBron James, adding a celebrity touch to your meal experience.

10. MOD Pizza

MOD Pizza offers a similar experience to Blaze, with vegan cheese, plant-based sausage, and a plethora of toppings. Their classic crust is vegan-friendly, allowing for diverse, flavorful pizzas.

Each visit to MOD is a chance to explore creative combinations that cater to personal tastes. Their dedication to inclusivity and flavor has made them a beloved choice for many. Did you know MOD stands for Made On Demand? It highlights their focus on customization and customer satisfaction.

11. Del Taco

Del Taco was one of the first major chains to embrace plant-based meat with their Beyond Tacos, burritos, and bowls. Removing cheese and sour cream makes these options vegan-friendly.

Del Taco’s innovative approach has set them apart as a leader in fast-food evolution. The use of fresh, vibrant ingredients creates a satisfying meal without sacrificing taste. An intriguing fact: Del Taco was founded in Yermo, California, and has grown to become a staple in American fast-food culture.

12. Carl’s Jr.

Carl’s Jr. offers the Beyond Famous Star nationwide, easily made vegan by omitting cheese and mayo. Their fries, hash rounds, and burger buns are also vegan, creating a complete plant-based meal.

The introduction of Beyond Meat at Carl’s Jr. showcases their commitment to modern dietary trends. It’s fascinating to note that Carl’s Jr. was named after its founder, Carl Karcher, and has been a pioneer in fast-food innovation since its inception.

13. White Castle

White Castle is home to the Impossible Slider, a plant-based delight that fits perfectly into their iconic menu. Remove the cheese for a vegan option, and enjoy with crispy fries and vegan buns.

The Impossible Slider is a testament to White Castle’s willingness to adapt and innovate within fast food. Interestingly, White Castle is America’s first fast-food hamburger chain, founded in 1921. Their rich history is matched by a modern approach to vegan options.

14. Noodles & Company

Noodles & Company offers a diverse range of options for vegans with zoodles, rice noodles, and tofu, complemented by vegan sauces like Japanese Pan Sauce and Spicy Peanut. Each bowl is a flavorful journey.

The ability to mix and match ingredients allows diners to tailor their meals to personal preferences. Noodles & Company’s innovative approach to flavors has earned them a loyal following. Did you know they started in Colorado in 1995, bringing global noodle dishes to American tables?

15. Dunkin’

Dunkin’ offers plant-based options like almond and oat milk for lattes, as well as vegan avocado toast. Some locations also carry Beyond breakfast sausage, adding to their vegan offerings.

Dunkin’s integration of vegan choices highlights their responsiveness to changing dietary needs. The cozy café atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for quick, enjoyable meals. Fun fact: Dunkin’, originally named Dunkin’ Donuts, dropped “Donuts” to reflect its expanded menu beyond sweet treats.

16. Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut allows customers to order veggie pizzas without cheese, using the Original Pan or Thin ‘N Crispy crusts. In some regions, they offer Beyond Meat toppings for a complete vegan experience.

Their approach to vegan options reflects a commitment to diversity and taste. Pizza Hut’s vast network ensures accessibility to plant-based choices. Did you know Pizza Hut was the first pizza chain to deliver to outer space? Their innovative spirit extends to their menu offerings.

17. Domino’s

Domino’s offers a no-cheese veggie pizza on their thin crust, complemented by breadsticks without parmesan topping. These choices provide a satisfying meal for plant-based diners.

Domino’s subtle integration of vegan options shows their adaptability and customer focus. The variety ensures something for everyone. Domino’s, known for its innovation, once delivered a pizza via reindeer in Japan, highlighting its creative approach to service and menu.

18. Little Caesars

In select markets, Little Caesars has tested plant-based toppings like Field Roast sausage. Their regular crust is vegan by default, making it easy to craft a meatless meal.

Little Caesars’ exploration into vegan toppings demonstrates an openness to culinary trends. The convenience of their offerings makes them a beloved choice for many. Interestingly, Little Caesars was named after a term of endearment used by the founder’s wife, adding a personal touch to their brand.

19. Auntie Anne’s

Auntie Anne’s classic pretzels, when ordered without butter, are a vegan-friendly treat. With dipping sauces like marinara and mustard, they offer a flavorful snack option.

The simplicity of these pretzels is matched by their delicious taste. Auntie Anne’s commitment to quality shines through in every bite. Did you know Auntie Anne’s started as a market stand in Pennsylvania? It’s grown into a beloved snack chain while maintaining its roots.

20. Sonic Drive-In

Sonic Drive-In may be basic, but it offers vegan options like tater tots, fries, soft pretzels, and slushes without dairy add-ins. These items create a nostalgic yet modern dining experience.

Sonic’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in their menu. Their classic American drive-in atmosphere offers a unique dining setting. Fun fact: Sonic’s name reflects its original concept of “Service at the Speed of Sound,” emphasizing quick and efficient service.

21. Wendy’s

Wendy’s may lag behind in vegan offerings, but creative diners can hack a meal with a baked potato, fries, and garden salad. Some test markets are exploring plant-based options.

The potential for customization allows for a satisfying vegan meal at Wendy’s. Their openness to customer feedback is shaping future menu innovations. Did you know Wendy’s was named after the founder’s daughter, symbolizing a personal touch in their approach?