Dining Out as a Vegan

Dining Out as a Vegan


Dining Out as a Vegan



Eating out doesn't have to be a headache. With a few simple strategies, you can find delicious plant-based meals almost anywhere.

1. General Tips


  • Check Menus Online: Look for sections labeled "vegan," "vegetarian," or "plant-based."

  • Call Ahead: Restaurants are often happy to accommodate if they know in advance.

  • Apps:** Use **HappyCow to find vegan-friendly spots near you.


    • 2. Cuisine Guide


  • Italian: Pasta marinara, bruschetta, roasted veggies, pizza without cheese (load up the veggies!).

  • Mexican: Bean burritos (hold the cheese/sour cream), veggie fajitas, guacamole, chips & salsa. Rice implies chicken stock sometimes, so ask!

  • Asian: Stir-fried veggies with tofu, vegetable sushi rolls, avocado rolls, edamame. *Ask about fish sauce!*

  • Middle Eastern: Falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, baba ganoush, lentil soup.

  • Indian: Chana Masala (chickpeas), Aloo Gobi (potato/cauliflower), Vegetable Samosas. *Watch out for ghee (clarified butter).*

  • American/Burger Joints: Many places now offer the Beyond or Impossible burger. Check if the bun is vegan (brioche usually has egg/butter). Fries are usually safe (ask if they share a fryer with chicken).


    • 3. Questions to Ask Your Server


  • "Is this cooked in butter or oil?"

  • "Does the sauce contain dairy or fish sauce?"

  • "Is the soup stock vegetable-based or chicken/beef?"

  • "Can I swap the cheese for avocado?"


    • 4. Fast Food Hacks


  • Taco Bell: "Fresco Style" replaces cheese/sour cream with pico de gallo. Beans are vegan!

  • Chipotle: Sofritas (tofu) is delicious. Everything is customizable.

  • Burger King: Impossible Whopper (ask for no mayo).