Vegan Wins And Fails: 15 Fast Food Chains That Get It Right (And 5 That Don’t)

Eating vegan on the go used to mean cobbling together a sad salad or plain fries. But now? Some fast food chains are finally stepping up—offering real, filling, flavorful plant-based options. Still, others haven’t caught on or are phoning it in with barely anything edible. Here’s a roundup of 15 chains that are crushing the vegan game, and 5 that seriously missed the mark.

1. Taco Bell

Taco Bell is the ultimate customizer for vegan eaters. With a simple substitution of beans for meat and skipping cheese and sour cream, you can enjoy everything from burritos to Crunchwraps made vegan. The vibrant menu is versatile, offering fresh ingredients like tomatoes, lettuce, and tortillas, making it an exciting choice for plant-based fans. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just curious, Taco Bell has options that cater to your taste buds. With the ability to personalize your meal, it’s a win for those seeking both convenience and flavor on the go.

2. Chipotle

Chipotle makes vegan dining a breeze with their delicious bowls. Featuring sofritas, a spicy tofu option, paired with fajita veggies, beans, and rice, these bowls are a satisfying meal. The bonus? Guacamole comes at no extra charge on a veggie bowl, enhancing the flavor and richness of your meal. Each bite is filled with fresh ingredients that are both healthy and flavorful, appealing to a broad audience. Chipotle’s commitment to quality and taste makes it a go-to destination for vegan enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

3. Shake Shack (select locations)

Shake Shack is known for its classic burgers, but some select locations offer a delightful surprise for vegans. The Veggie Shack burger is a veggie-forward option made with actual vegetables, not just a meat substitute. With ingredients like beets and mushrooms, it offers a unique taste and texture. Served alongside their famous crinkle-cut fries, this burger is a nod to those seeking something different and delicious. Though not available everywhere, it’s a testament to Shake Shack’s innovative spirit and dedication to catering to diverse dietary preferences.

4. Burger King

Burger King made headlines with its Impossible Whopper, a plant-based alternative that pleases vegans and meat-eaters alike. Hold the mayo, and you have a fully vegan meal, complete with a juicy patty, fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles nestled in a soft bun. It’s a flavorful option that delivers the classic taste of a Whopper without the meat. Burger King’s embrace of plant-based innovation has set a new standard for fast food chains, making vegan dining more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

5. Panera Bread

Panera Bread offers a delightful array of vegan-friendly options, from soups to grain bowls. With a few easy tweaks, many dishes can be made vegan, allowing for a personalized dining experience. The availability of plant milk for coffee adds to the appeal, making it a haven for vegan coffee lovers. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty grain salad or a comforting bowl of soup, Panera’s commitment to fresh, quality ingredients shines through. It’s a place where vegans can indulge in delicious meals that are both nourishing and satisfying.

6. Starbucks

Starbucks has embraced the plant-based movement with open arms, offering oat, almond, and soy milk for their delicious coffee creations. Try a brown sugar oat latte, sans foam, or grab a chickpea protein box for a quick, nutritious snack. The variety of vegan options makes Starbucks a convenient stop for those on the go. Their innovative approach to vegan cuisine ensures that coffee lovers can enjoy their favorite beverages without compromise, making Starbucks a leader in the realm of vegan-friendly cafés.

7. Blaze Pizza

Blaze Pizza is a haven for pizza lovers, offering build-your-own pies with vegan cheese and spicy vegan chorizo. The array of veggie toppings provides endless possibilities for creativity, allowing customers to craft a personalized masterpiece. With crusts that are vegan-friendly, Blaze Pizza caters to those who crave flavor without compromise. The vibrant colors and bold flavors create a pizza experience that delights both the eyes and taste buds, making it a favorite spot for vegans and food enthusiasts alike.

8. Carl’s Jr.

Carl’s Jr. offers the Beyond Famous Star, a tasty plant-based burger that satisfies both vegans and meat-lovers. Ask for no cheese or mayo, and you have a delicious vegan meal. Paired with their golden fries or hash rounds, it’s a comforting choice for those craving classic fast food flavors. The combination of a juicy patty and fresh toppings provides a satisfying bite, while Carl’s Jr.’s commitment to plant-based options adds a modern twist to traditional favorites.

9. Del Taco

Del Taco has embraced the plant-based trend with their craveable Beyond Meat tacos and burritos. Simply remove the cheese and sour cream, and you have a delicious vegan meal full of flavor and spice. The addition of fresh toppings like lettuce and tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch, making each bite a delight. Del Taco’s innovative approach to fast food has won over vegans and non-vegans alike, solidifying its place as a favorite destination for those seeking quality and taste.

10. MOD Pizza

MOD Pizza is a DIY pizza spot that caters to vegans with dairy-free cheese and plant-based sausage. The wide selection of veggie toppings allows for creative combinations, ensuring a pizza tailored to your taste. The crust, vegan-friendly and delicious, serves as the perfect base for your culinary creation. MOD Pizza’s commitment to quality ingredients and customizable options makes it a standout choice for those craving a unique and satisfying vegan pizza experience.

11. Jamba

Jamba offers a refreshing escape for vegans seeking nutritious and delicious smoothies. By substituting plant milk for dairy, they create satisfying blends without sacrificing flavor. Their bowls, topped with granola, fresh fruits, and nut butters, provide a wholesome snack or meal option. Jamba’s dedication to fresh ingredients and creative combinations makes it a go-to spot for those looking to enjoy a healthy treat on the move. The vibrant colors and bold flavors ensure a delightful experience for all.

12. Noodles & Company

Noodles & Company caters to vegan diners with their wide variety of noodle options. From zoodles to rice noodles, paired with tofu and an array of veggies, there’s something for everyone. The addition of flavorful sauces like Japanese pan or spicy peanut elevates each dish, offering a delightful taste experience. Noodles & Company’s focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors ensures a satisfying meal that appeals to both vegans and non-vegans, making it a favorite destination for all.

13. Bareburger

Bareburger stands out with its fully vegan offerings, including burgers, milkshakes, and sides. Customers can build their own burger with multiple patty and bun options, including plant-based varieties. The creative combinations and fresh ingredients make each meal a culinary adventure. Paired with a vegan milkshake, Bareburger provides a satisfying and indulgent dining experience that appeals to vegans and non-vegans alike. Their commitment to quality and innovation sets them apart in the fast food scene.

14. Veggie Grill

Veggie Grill is an all-vegan chain offering a wide array of delicious options, from burgers to bowls and sandwiches. Each dish is crafted with bold flavors and fresh ingredients, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. The variety of options caters to diverse tastes, making it a favorite spot for plant-based eaters. Veggie Grill’s commitment to providing quality vegan meals elevates fast-casual dining, making it a must-visit for those seeking tasty and wholesome food in a welcoming environment.

15. Ike’s Love & Sandwiches

Ike’s Love & Sandwiches offers a delightful array of vegan sandwiches, filled with plant-based meats and dairy-free sauces. The popular Dutch crunch bread adds a unique texture and flavor to each sandwich. With clearly labeled vegan options, customers can easily navigate the menu and find something to suit their taste. Ike’s commitment to quality and creativity makes it a standout choice for those seeking a satisfying and flavorful vegan meal. It’s a haven for sandwich lovers looking for something special.

16. Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A’s vegan offerings are limited, leaving plant-based eaters with few choices beyond waffle fries, fruit, and a side salad. The lack of a vegan entrée or plant-based protein makes dining challenging for those seeking a more substantial meal. Despite their popularity, Chick-fil-A’s limited vegan options fall short of expectations, leaving many customers hoping for more innovation. While the basics are available, the absence of creativity and variety highlights the gap in their menu when it comes to catering to vegan diners.

17. Arby’s

Arby’s has made its stance on plant-based food clear, leaving vegan diners with little to choose from. With no vegan meat or dairy alternatives, the options are limited to a side salad and a drink. This lack of variety reflects Arby’s traditional approach, focusing on meat-centric meals rather than embracing plant-based innovation. For those seeking vegan options, Arby’s may not be the first choice, as their menu shows little inclination towards accommodating diverse dietary preferences.

18. Popeyes

Popeyes is renowned for its bold flavors, but vegans may find themselves disappointed. Most sides, like mashed potatoes and rice, contain animal products, leaving few options. Even the biscuits don’t fit the vegan criteria. This lack of consideration for plant-based diners leaves a gap in their offerings, highlighting a missed opportunity to cater to a broader audience. Popeyes’ focus on traditional Southern cuisine may delight some, but vegans will likely leave wanting more diverse and inclusive options.

19. Wendy’s

Wendy’s vegan options are limited, with the baked potato and fries being the main attractions. Without a veggie patty or non-dairy milk, vegans have few substantial choices. While the basics are there, the lack of innovation leaves vegan diners hoping for more. Wendy’s traditional menu may satisfy some, but those seeking plant-based variety may find their options lacking. The absence of creative and fulfilling vegan choices marks a gap in their offerings, highlighting a missed chance to cater to a growing demographic.

20. Dairy Queen

Dairy Queen may offer vegan-friendly fries and soda, but the absence of dairy-free ice cream options is a glaring omission. As an ice cream chain, the lack of plant-based dessert options feels like a missed opportunity. Vegans visiting Dairy Queen may enjoy the basics, but the experience falls short of expectations. The focus on traditional ice cream leaves little room for those seeking dairy-free alternatives, highlighting a gap in their menu that could attract a more diverse customer base.