I have recently decided to become a vegetarian, and I’ve realized that there is a major lack in vegetarian fast food options. Maybe this is a sign that it’s time to be extra healthy, but even healthy people need a fast food fix every one in a while. I’ve done some research and have compiled a list of all of the fast food restaurants that I could think of and their vegetarian options.
I’ve included breakfast at some places, but chose to keep egg options off the list since some vegetarians don’t even eat eggs (it also just made things a little easier for me). The key to this list is that there is an actual meal that you could eat at these restaurants, not just some fries. Now when your friends want some fast food, you’ll know what restaurants include options for you too.
Taco Bell
Ever since going vegetarian, Taco Bell has my heart. Not only can you swap out meat for beans in any of their burritos, tacos, or quesadillas, but they have a registered dietitian as part of their staff. This means that Taco Bell is actually healthier than many people think. I’m a huge fan of the cheesy bean and rice burrito. My healthy go-to option on the menu is the Veggie Power Burrito. It tastes so good and is crazy filling.
#SpoonTip: Ask for black beans rather than refried beans for an even healthier option.
Chipotle
I know that Chipotle isn’t necessarily a fast food restaurant, but my friends and I like to consider it one. There may not be a drive-thru, but it’s a quick food option that is quite generous to veg-heads. You can either get sofritas on your burrito, which is tofu that has been seasoned, or you can go for the fajitas burrito (or bowl) that has the fajita veggies and includes guacamole (and for once it isn’t extra).
Qdoba
Qdoba doesn’t have a tofu protein option like Chipotle does, but they do still offer the option of getting a burrito sans meat with some extra beans and fajitas vegetables as well. Plus, if you’re a huge queso fan, I know you’ll be loving this option.
Burger King
This one honestly surprised me, but BK actually has a veggie burger. It is a Morningstar veggie burger, so you know it’s going to be good, because I have never been disappointed by anything Morningstar. Feel free to get some French fries or onion rings as a side to really complete your fast food meal dreams. If you’re thinking of heading here for breakfast, you can choose from pancakes, French toast sticks, or maple oatmeal. Don’t forget to get a side of hash-browns with any of your breakfast options.
#SpoonTip: Vegetarian meals aren’t always healthy. Keep in mind that although you may be getting a veggie burger, it’s not necessarily the best for you. But that’s what happens when you need your fast food fix!
Five Guys
Five Guys really has us covered for a true fast food fix. They have a grilled cheese on the menu that is to die for. Add yourself a side of fries, and you’ve got a dream fast food meal. If you’re trying to go a little healthier, they do have a veggie sandwich, which means you get a bun and can choose as many “veggie” toppings as you desire to put onto it.
#SpoonTip: Add onion, tomato, and mushroom to your grilled cheese to really make your tastebuds happy.
Jimmy John’s
Jimmy John’s is a personal favorite of mine. They have a vegetarian sub as well as a gourmet veggie club. Both of these sandwiches are absolutely amazing. It’s a sandwich with an abundance of veggies, provolone cheese, and, of course, avocado spread. You really can’t go wrong here.
#SpoonTip: Get the Unwich if you’re in the mood to be extra healthy (the bread is replaced by a lettuce wrap).
Dunkin’ Donuts
Sometimes you’re craving a bagel, and the good news is Dunkin’ has you covered with that one. This is definitely more of a breakfast option type of place, and the only time I’m going to bring up eggs in this article. Dunkin’ does have an egg white flatbread sandwich that’s quite good and doesn’t have any meat on it. You can also get an egg and cheese sandwich, which would be quite filling. Plus, if you’re a donuts for breakfast kind of person, there’s always that option as well.
Wendy’s
These options are minimal, but they do have vegetarian options. The obvious one is their fries, but there’s more to Wendy’s than you may have imagined. They also have baked potatoes, and you can either get your baked potato topped with sour cream and chives or broccoli and cheese. I don’t know if you’ve ever had a baked potato topped with broccoli and cheese, but I have and it’s delicious.