Meat eaters shouldn’t have all the fun. Whether you’re a vegetarian for ethical reasons or swear by the diet for its health benefits, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy Taco Bell or a little Micky D’s now and again. You might even be surprised by the variety of options at your favorite drive-thru, including everything from Impossible Meat burgers to easy veggie substitutions.
Here are the 8 best vegetarian menu items at fast food restaurants:
Taco Bell: Black Bean Crunchwrap Supreme
Much of Taco Bell’s menu can actually be customized for a vegetarian diet. Sub any meat for potatoes, beans, rice, or all three. There are plenty of staples already available, too, like the Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito and Spicy Potato Soft Taco. However, our favorite is the Black Bean Crunchwrap Supreme. Piled with layers of black beans, nacho cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, reduced-fat sour cream, it's so packed with flavor that it doesn't feel like it's missing anything.
McDonald’s: Fries
While Micky D's tried (and failed) to permanently launch its plant-based burger, which was available for a limited time in 2022, there's still one tried-and-true vegetarian menu item: Fries. And let's be honest, the side is the whole reason we want the golden-arched fast food joint in the first place.
Chipotle: Sofritas Burrito Bowl
Chipotle's vegetarian protein option, Sofritas, used to be the only protein I'd order. And I'm not even a vegetarian. The vegan-friendly option includes shredded tofu braised with a blend of spices, including poblano pepper, cumin, and chipotle chile. It’s so flavorful and layers perfectly with other toppings in a burrito bowl.
In-N-Out: Grilled Cheese
While In-n-Out hasn’t dropped a veggie burger or plant-based burger yet, the cult-favorite chain’s Grilled Cheese is a popular substitution. And it’s exactly what it sounds like—the lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and your choice of condiments. As a bonus, the fries are safe, too!
Shake Shack: Veggie Shack
Shake Shack's menu is stacked with vegetarian options: A grilled cheese, the 'Shroom Burger, and the leveled-up Black Truffle 'Shroom Burger. However, the Veggie Shack takes the crown on this one. It's made from mushrooms, sweet potatoes, carrots, farro, and quinoa and comes topped with American cheese, crispy onions, and the chain's creamy and indulgent Shack Sauce. You won't regret it.
Starbucks: Spicy Falafel Pocket
One of Starbucks' newest menu offerings just so happens to be the best vegetarian-friendly option: The Spicy Falafel Pocket. The new innovation, which launched just earlier this year, features smashed falafel, creamy hummus, roasted red bell peppers, pickled onions, and a spicy herb sauce all wrapped in a toasted lavash flatbread. Vegetarian and meat-eaters alike will love it.
Dunkin’: Avocado Toast
While Dunkin’s classic bagels and donuts are an excellent vegetarian option, the avocado toast is a great, nutrient-packed option for the herbivores out there.
Burger King: Impossible Whopper
If you’re dedicated to the vegetarian lifestyle (but are missing a real burger), good news: Burger King’s Impossible Whopper tastes nearly identical to the real thing. The meatless option has a beef-like patty and all the same toppings of the menu staple, including lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, mayo, and ketchup.
