Ordering vegan at fast food restaurants has never been easier, thanks to expanded menus, customizable options, and a growing awareness of plant-based lifestyles. Whether you’re fully vegan, testing out Meatless Mondays, or just trying to reduce your intake of animal products, knowing how to navigate fast food menus can save you time, money, and stress. With the help of cashback apps like Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta, it can also be more affordable than you think.
Many fast food chains now make it possible to enjoy a fully vegan meal with just a few small modifications. At Taco Bell, one of the most vegan-friendly chains, you can build a meal using black beans, rice, lettuce, guacamole, tomatoes, and tortillas. Simply ask to “make it fresco” and remove any meat, cheese, or sour cream to create a vegan option. Taco Bell’s menu is highly customizable and officially endorsed by Veganuary, making it a safe choice for beginners.
Chipotle is another favorite, offering vegan options through its build-your-own format. Order a bowl with brown rice, black or pinto beans, fajita veggies, salsa, lettuce, and guacamole. Add Sofritas, Chipotle’s spicy organic tofu protein, for a flavorful plant-based protein boost. You can order using a Chipotle gift card from Fluz to earn instant cashback on every visit.
At Panera Bread, you’ll find options like the Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich (minus the feta), steel-cut oatmeal, and the Ten Vegetable Soup, which is vegan by default. Starbucks also provides plenty of dairy-free drink options—just swap dairy milk for oat, almond, or soy, and avoid whipped cream or honey-based sweeteners. Use a Starbucks gift card from Fluz for a quick plant-based caffeine boost with cashback.
Even chains not known for vegan food are making progress. At Burger King, the Impossible Whopper can be made vegan by ordering it without mayo and confirming the cooking method, as the patty is often grilled alongside meat. Subway allows you to build a veggie sandwich or salad loaded with fresh toppings. Ask for it without cheese and mayonnaise, and consider pairing it with a vegan-friendly sauce like mustard or sweet onion.
Cashback apps like Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta make your vegan fast food journey even more budget-friendly. With Fluz, you buy a gift card to the merchant of your choice and pay with that gift card at checkout, earning cashback instantly. Rakuten offers deals on food delivery platforms and restaurants, while Ibotta provides cash back for grocery and food purchases, including some fast food chains when you link a loyalty card or upload a receipt. Using one or more of these apps consistently helps offset the cost of plant-based dining, especially when prices are slightly higher for specialty items like plant-based patties or non-dairy milk.
Fast food is evolving, and with the right strategies, it’s possible to stick to your vegan goals without sacrificing convenience or breaking the bank. Between smart customizations and savvy use of cashback apps, eating vegan on the go is practical, affordable, and satisfying.
