25 Best Vegetarian Fast Food Options To Try in 2025

Are you on the lookout for the best vegetarian fast food? Then look no further! We've compiled a list of the best vegetarian fast food choices that will satisfy your cravings while keeping you fueled and happy on the go.

Vegetarian fast food has never been more exciting and accessible. Whether you're a committed vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more meat-free meals into your diet, this list has something for everyone.

To discover all of the delicious options available, keep reading for 25 of the best vegetarian fast food restaurants, including fully meat-free spots and well-known chains. 

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• How We Choose the Best Vegetarian Fast Food Restaurants
• The 25 Best Vegetarian Fast Food Restaurants
• Learn To Cook Vegetarian Food

How We Choose the Best Vegetarian Fast Food Restaurants

The team at Cozymeal has an extensive background creating culinary content and connecting foodies with experiences like cooking classes and food tours. With this experience comes knowledge of the best restaurants and food products, including those that cater to various diets and lifestyles, such as the best vegetarian eateries and new product releases.

We also understand how it can be challenging to find great vegetarian fast food options on the go, which is why we’ve put together this in-depth guide to the best places to get meat-free fast food. These include completely vegetarian and vegan restaurants and general fast food chains that offer vegetarian dishes.

To create this guide, our editorial team added their own recommendations for the best places for vegetarian fast food. To expand on this, in-depth research was conducted via the web and vegetarian forums on platforms like Reddit.   

On top of highlighting great vegetarian fast food joints, we offer a star rating for each restaurant, with ratings based on the following: 

• Three Stars: Is exclusively vegetarian or has a vast array of vegetarian options.
• Two Stars: Has a good number of vegetarian options, offering a choice of dishes.
• One Star: Fast food places with vegetarian options, but not much choice or innovation. 

In addition, for those who want to avoid fast food restaurants serving meat or fish due to ethical or cross-contamination concerns, we’ve added a guide to whether meat and fish are prepared on the premises. We also highlight if the places are suitable for other common diets and lifestyles, such as gluten-free and vegan, although note that there is the potential for cross-contamination in all cases. 

The 25 Best Vegetarian Fast Food Restaurants

1. Veggie Grill

Veggie Grill is a standout chain that proudly serves up a delectable array of 100% plant-based and vegetarian dishes. A real contender for the title of best vegetarian fast food joint, Veggie Grill offers an entire menu of meat-free deliciousness, from veggie burgers to salads and sides like mac and cheese.

Some of the most popular options include their crave-worthy Santa Fe Chik'n Sandwich stuffed with a crispy plant-based chicken and Beyond Classic ChzBurger, featuring a juicy Beyond Meat patty and classic burger toppings. For those craving lighter meals and snacks, the Caesar Crunch Salad or the Sesame Tofu Supergreen Salad are irresistible, meatless fast food options.

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and vegan-friendly; some gluten-free options. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: No 

2. Taco Bell

Taco Bell is a world-renowned fast-food chain famous for its fun Tex-Mex menu. The chain offers many meat-free options alongside its meat offerings, making it a good place to head if you have vegetarians and meat eaters in your group.

For vegetarian options at Taco Bell, customers can choose from items like bean burritos, black bean wraps and veggie power bowls. One of the most popular vegetarian items is The Incredible Hulk from the Taco Bell secret menu, which comprises a modified version of their bean burrito, adding bucket loads of guacamole for an extra boost of flavor and nutrients.

Another of the best Taco Bell orders for vegetarians is the Double Cheesy Black Bean Burrito, which features a combination of cheese, black beans and Taco Bell sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla.

Whether you're going meat-free or simply exploring new tastes, Taco Bell offers some of the best vegetarian fast food choices around. Plus, most of the meat-free dishes rank among the healthiest items at Taco Bell, meaning you can enjoy your fast food with a little less guilt! 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options; some vegan and gluten-free dishes. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

3. Neat Burger

Neat Burger is a revolutionary fast food restaurant that is fully dedicated to serving plant-based, vegetarian-friendly options. Backed by Lewis Hamilton, the Formula 1 racing champion, along with other partners, it’s definitely one of the best vegetarian fast food places on the market.

At Neat Burger, customers can indulge in a variety of vegetarian options that are not only tasty but also made with high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients. A highly popular item on the menu is the namesake Neat Burger. It features a plant-based burger made with beans and mushrooms, plus vegan cheese, vegetable garnishes and a special sauce, all served on a soft bun.

Another favorite is the meat-free chicken burger, featuring a crispy plant-based chicken patty topped with vegan mayonnaise and lettuce. For sides, Neat Burger offers delicious fries and onion rings.

Neat Burger's commitment to sustainability and animal welfare makes it a great vegan and vegetarian fast food restaurant for those who want to support a business that serves excellent food and is part of a movement towards a more conscious and compassionate way of dining.

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and vegan-friendly; some gluten-free options. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: No

4. Mr. Charlie's

Mr. Charlie's is a trendy plant-based fast food restaurant that has been making waves in the culinary scene and is one of the best vegan fast food spots, as well as being great for vegetarians. Its tongue-in-cheek styling mimics the branding of another very famous fast food giant, but its mission and dedication to sustainability set the brand apart.

The menu at Mr. Charlie's features plant-based burgers, the best vegetarian fast food breakfast muffins, nuggets and sides, making it a haven for those switching to meat-free substitutes.

One of the most popular vegetarian choices is the Big Chuck, which includes two juicy plant-based burger patties topped with fresh lettuce, vegan cheese and special sauce on a toasted bun. Another crowd favorite is the Not a Chicken Sandwich.

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and vegan-friendly. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: No

5. Burger King

Burger King is a globally recognized fast food chain known for its flame-grilled burgers and signature Whopper sandwich. While Burger King primarily specializes in meat-based offerings, they do offer several vegetarian options, making it one of the best vegetarian fast food spots for those who need something quick and convenient.

For vegetarian options at Burger King, customers can enjoy the Veggie Burger, which features a savory, flame-grilled patty made from vegetables and grains. This burger is served with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles and mayonnaise on a sesame seed bun.

As it replaces red meat, this is also one of the healthiest items at Burger King if you don't want to compromise too much on a classic burger while trying to eat healthily. 

An Impossible Whopper is also available, and some locations have veggie nuggets and plant-based chicken sandwiches. Most of the sides and desserts are vegetarian-friendly as well. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options; some vegan dishes. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

6. White Castle

White Castle is another well-known fast food chain that has quite a few vegetarian options. One of the best vegetarian fast food dishes here is the White Castle Impossible Slider, which features a savory veggie Impossible patty on a signature bun with pickles.

Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking to try something different, the veggie slider at White Castle is definitely worth a taste! In addition, White Castle offers vegetarian-friendly sides, such as French fries, onion rings and mozzarella sticks.

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

7. PLNT Burger

PLNT Burger is the perfect vegetarian fast food restaurant for those looking for a classic burger and fries. This 100% plant-based eatery doesn't only serve burgers, though. Other vegan and vegetarian fast food options on the menu include plant-based chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, breakfast sandwiches and milkshakes. 

If you feel like a burger, one of the best vegetarian fast food burgers to get is the PLNT Mushroom BBQ Bacon Burger. It features a plant-based patty, plus caramelized onions, mushroom bacon, plant-based cheddar cheese and barbecue sauce on a soft potato bun.

Other unique and delicious choices include the Save the Bay Fillet fish sandwich, the Spicy Chik’n Sandwich and the decadent Banana Crème Brûlée Milkshake

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and vegan-friendly. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: No

8. In-N-Out Burger

In-N-Out Burger, the iconic West Coast fast food chain, is known for its classic burgers and fresh ingredients. While In-N-Out is definitely not traditionally a meat-free restaurant, it does offer several vegetarian fast food options for those who want a fast food sandwich and fries.

For vegetarian customers at In-N-Out, the most well-rounded choice is the Grilled Cheese, a sandwich that includes melted cheese, lettuce, tomato and spread on a toasted bun. This option essentially mimics a burger but without the meat patty.

Another favorite is the Wish Burger from the In-N-Out secret menu, which is a burger minus the meat, typically consisting of lettuce, tomato, onion and spread.

The flexibility to create your own dish from menu ingredients somewhat allows vegetarians to enjoy the flavors that In-N-Out is famous for. However, if you're looking for the very best vegetarian fast food options and a more full-rounded meal, In-N-Out probably isn't the place for you.

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

9. McDonald's

McDonald's is an iconic fast food giant that offers a mix of menu items, including both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. In North America, the best vegetarian fast food options at McDonald's typically include items like the Egg McMuffin (without Canadian bacon) and the side salads (without meat toppings).

All of the desserts are also vegetarian and customers can customize their orders to create vegetarian-friendly meals, such as opting for a grilled cheese sandwich made with McDonald's signature American cheese on a toasted bun.

If you're looking for sides here and are wondering, "Are McDonald’s fries vegetarian?", unfortunately, they are not if you're in the United States. This is because the fries are coated in beef fat, making them not vegetarian-friendly. However, in most other countries, vegetarians and vegans can enjoy McDonald's fries. 

Additionally, in some European countries, McDonald's has introduced the McPlant Burger, featuring a meat-free patty. Some outlets, such as those in the U.K., also offer plant-based cheese and sauce with this burger. Other international McDonald's menu items without meat include vegetable nuggets and bean burgers. 

While this makes McDonald’s rise up the list of the best vegetarian fast food places globally, the brand doesn’t currently offer the McPlant or other official menu items that are meat-free in the U.S. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options. Some gluten-free dishes. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

10. KFC

KFC probably isn’t the first place you think of when it comes to the best vegetarian fast food options. However, there are lots of great sides you can combine here and even some plant-based meat options, depending on your location.

Delicious vegetarian-friendly sides include mac and cheese, fries, biscuits, mashed potatoes and macaroni salad. As mentioned, some locations also have Beyond Meat nuggets and chicken sandwiches. To finish your feast, choose from dessert options like cookies, brownies and mini apple pies. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options. Some gluten-free dishes. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

11. Whataburger

While Whataburger is known for its signature meat burgers, it also has several vegetarian-friendly choices on its menu. For vegetarians looking to enjoy Whataburger, a popular option is the Whataburger Veggie Sandwich, which features fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions and avocado slices on a toasted bun.

You can also customize other menu items to be vegetarian-friendly by requesting no meat, such as a grilled cheese or taquitos filled with eggs, cheese and jalapeños from the Whataburger breakfast menu. 

The Whataburger secret menu also offers some creative vegetarian choices. One standout item is the Whatahash Veggie Sandwich, a combination of hash browns, grilled onions, cheese and jalapeños, perfect when you're looking for a hearty and flavorful vegetarian snack.

With quite a few customizable options and creative secret menu items, Whataburger has the potential to become one of the best vegetarian fast food restaurants outside of 100% vegan and vegetarian eateries. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

12. Arby’s 

When it comes to the best vegetarian fast food, the options at Arby's are limited, but fear not! Vegetarians can still find satisfaction by ordering the chain's delicious sides. Try the mozzarella sticks for a savory delight of cheesy goodness and crispy perfection. 

You can also enjoy the seasoned goodness of Arby's famous curly fries or a creamy bowl of mac and cheese. There are also yummy milkshakes and turnover desserts. So, while Arby's may be known for its meats, vegetarians can still grab a few satisfying options for a quick snack. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

13. Next Level Burger

Next Level Burger is another of the best vegetarian fast food spots that’s completely meat-free. The vast menu also means that you’ll be spoiled for choice when dining here.

Options range from an array of burgers and plant-based chicken sandwiches to salads, tasty sides and even plant-based milkshakes. No matter what you order, you’ll definitely want to come back for more, thanks to the extensive number of vegan and vegetarian fast food choices.

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and vegan-friendly; some gluten-free options. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: No

14. Bojangles

While Bojangles specializes in chicken-based offerings, vegetarians can still find some delicious dishes. If you're looking for the best vegetarian fast food at Bojangles, consider ordering the Cheddar Bo, a combination of cheese and biscuit that's sure to satisfy your cravings.

Alternatively, dive into a bowl of creamy mac and cheese with a rich and comforting flavor. These meat-free, carb-and-cheese delights are sure to hit the spot.

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options; some gluten-free dishes. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

15. Mellow Mushroom 

Pizza has been one of the best options for vegetarians for decades. If you’re after the best vegetarian fast food pizza, Mellow Mushroom is one of the top spots to head to. You can order a variety of pizzas with lots of vegetable toppings, and gluten-free crust is available if you avoid gluten as well as meat. 

There are yummy sides to add to your order as well, including soft pretzels, cheesy garlic bread and spinach and artichoke dip. If you want something healthier, Mellow Mushroom also has multiple vegetarian-friendly salads to enjoy. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and meat options. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

16. Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chipotle Mexican Grill is a popular casual restaurant chain known for its fresh and customizable Mexican-inspired cuisine. Chipotle offers a mix of meat-based menu items alongside some of the best vegetarian fast food options for those who want something a little healthier than a burger and fries.

For vegetarian options at Chipotle, you can build your meal with ingredients like cilantro-lime rice, black or pinto beans, fajita vegetables, salsa, guacamole, cheese, sour cream (or vegan sour cream at some locations) and lettuce. You can even skip the meat and still enjoy a hearty and tasty burrito, bowl, salad or tacos filled with these vegetarian-friendly ingredients.

One of the most popular vegetarian choices at Chipotle is the veggie bowl or veggie burrito. These options include a base of rice and beans, topped with fajita vegetables, salsa, guacamole and other toppings of your choice. For more choice, consult the Chipotle secret menu, which includes a range of hacks to make your vegetarian fast food order more unique and flavorful. 

Whether you're looking for a quick vegetarian meal on the go or a sit-down dining experience, Chipotle is one of the best vegetarian fast food eateries to head to. The meat-free options are also among the healthiest items at Chipotle, making this Mexican restaurant chain a good choice if you're trying to eat more healthily. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and meat options. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

17. Dairy Queen

Dairy Queen has long been celebrated for its delectable ice cream treats, particularly their mouthwatering Blizzards. While the handful of savory options on the menu generally aren’t vegetarian, all of the desserts this spot is known for are, making it one of the best vegetarian fast food places for those with a sweet tooth.

From an array of Dairy Queen Blizzard flavors to ice cream sundaes and banana splits, there’s no shortage of desserts to indulge in. With reasonable prices and frequent deals, Dairy Queen is one of the top cheap fast food places as well for vegetarians after a quick, sweet treat.

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, gluten-free and meat options. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

18. Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt

As dairy products are generally vegetarian, it’s not surprising that many of the best vegetarian fast food places specialize in sweet treats. On a warm day, stopping by Menchie’s for frozen yogurt can’t be missed.

You can choose from many flavors and top them with a variety of toppings, most of which are vegetarian. From brownie bites to boba and fruit, there’s a lot to add to your frozen yogurt creation. Just remember to check candy toppings for gelatin, and you’ll be good to go. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: No

19. A&W

For the vegetarian diner at A&W, there are quite a few delectable options to choose from. Notably, this is one of the best vegetarian fast food places if you love tasty appetizers and sides.

Start your feast with the irresistible cheese curds, a savory treat reminiscent of baby mozzarella sticks but with a lighter breading. Pair them with a side of crispy fries, smothered in A&W's signature spicy mayo-relish blend that adds a zesty kick to every bite. You can also get a veggie burger with an Impossible Beef patty to pair with all the tasty sides. 

Wash it all down with the order A&W is renowned for, the Root Beer Float. Served in a frosty mug, this classic treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and provide the perfect balance to your savory meal. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options.

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

20. Waffle House

Want the best vegetarian fast food for breakfast? Then, heading to Waffle House is an excellent idea. This classic breakfast chain has many menu items for vegetarians, from sweet and delicious waffles with a variety of toppings to savory breakfast dishes like the famous All-Star Special (minus the bacon).

To have an even more unique experience, you can try some Waffle House secret menu items, such as a chocolate and peanut butter waffle or waffle sandwich with vegetarian fillings like eggs and hash browns. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options; some gluten-free dishes.

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

21. IHOP 

IHOP is another of the best vegetarian fast food places for breakfast, whether you’re grabbing your meal to go or dining in. IHOP has an extensive menu of sweet pancakes, waffles and French toast to try, all with lots of unique and tasty toppings.

Savory vegetarian-friendly breakfast items aren’t lacking either, with things like veggie-filled omelettes and eggs Benedict on the menu. If you visit for lunch or dinner, salads, appetizers and IHOP secret menu dishes like asparagus and spinach risotto can also be ordered.

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options; some gluten-free dishes.

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

22. Five Guys

Five Guys may not be synonymous with vegetarian fare, but they do offer a couple of satisfying vegetarian options. The menu features a veggie sandwich, which comprises an ensemble of fresh vegetables and cheese between soft buns, providing a tasty alternative to meaty counterparts. 

For those seeking a simpler indulgence, Five Guys also offers a classic grilled cheese sandwich, and there are some options on the Five Guys secret menu for vegetarians, including a Veggie BLT with mushrooms instead of bacon.

You can also accompany your meal with a delicious milkshake, with flavors like strawberry, banana and Oreo cookie available, making this one of the best vegetarian fast food places for those who want to indulge in one of the best fast food milkshakes. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options. 

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

23. Panda Express

Discover the surprisingly diverse vegetarian offerings at Panda Express! The best entrées at Panda Express for vegetarians include Beyond Meat orange chicken — which comes and goes from the menu — or tofu and fresh veggies (one of the healthiest items at Panda Express) paired with your choice of chow mein, white rice or wholesome brown rice. 

But why stop there? Elevate your meal with tantalizing sides like veggie spring rolls or cream cheese rangoons. Panda Express ensures that those looking for the best vegetarian fast food can enjoy a satisfying and fulfilling dining experience. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, meat, fish and gluten-free options; some vegan dishes.

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

24. Sonic

While Sonic offers a variety of vegetarian-friendly sides, its selection of main dishes is limited. On the menu, you'll find only two options suitable for vegetarians: a classic grilled cheese sandwich and French toast sticks from the Sonic breakfast menu.

However, the menu offers many opportunities for customization, and there's even a Sonic secret menu with some meat-free choices. Whether it's swapping out meat for extra veggies or crafting a unique combination of toppings for a wrap, there's plenty of room to tailor your meal to your vegetarian preferences.

Although Sonic won’t top the list of the best vegetarian fast food places, it’s good to know there are some options here if needed. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian and meat options; some gluten-free dishes.

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

25. Dunkin’ 

Vegetarians sadly lost some options at Dunkin’ when the brand discontinued the Beyond Meat breakfast sandwiches and Southwest Veggie Power Breakfast Sandwich. However, there are still a variety of simple and satisfying vegetarian options on the Dunkin' Donuts breakfast menu, from a classic bagel with cream cheese to a savory egg and cheese sandwich without the meat.

Of course, you can choose from the selection of Dunkin' Donuts flavors and other treats, meaning this is another of the best vegetarian fast food places for those looking for sweet options.

Of course, you can pair whatever you order with one of the best Dunkin' drinks, and you may even discover some creative vegetarian fast food items to try on the innovative Dunkin' Donuts secret menu. 

Vegetarian Rating: ⭐⭐

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian, vegan and meat options; some gluten-free dishes.

Also Serves Meat or Fish?: Yes

Learn To Cook Vegetarian Food

While stopping by the best vegetarian fast food places is a great way to satisfy cravings, you may also want to learn how to cook some delicious vegetarian meals at home. If you’re looking to boost your meat-free cooking skills, both online cooking classes and in-person cooking classes near you are valuable resources for learning how to create delicious vegetarian dishes.

Vegetarian online cooking classes offer the convenience of learning from home, while in-person cooking classes provide opportunities to connect with fellow culinary enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the flexibility of online learning or the interactive nature of in-person instruction, both formats are effective for mastering the art of vegetarian cooking.

Exploring the best vegetarian fast food options on the market opens up a world of delicious and satisfying meals for plant-based eaters. Whether you're craving a classic veggie burger, innovative plant-based bowls or flavorful wraps, fast food chains continue to expand their vegetarian offerings to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. 

With the growing demand for meat-free alternatives, this list showcases the variety and creativity within the fast food industry, making it easier than ever to enjoy convenient and tasty vegetarian options on the go.

For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.