Over the past few years, plant-based eating has gone from a niche movement to a nationwide trend, and the restaurant industry has taken notice. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, there are more options than ever before. Gone are the days when a plain salad was your only choice. Now, you can find everything from plant-based burgers to dairy-free ice cream at chains across the country.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular plant-based and vegan-friendly chain restaurants in the U.S. that are making it easier (and tastier) to eat your veggies.
Blaze Pizza (Vegan-Friendly)
While not exclusively plant-based, Blaze Pizza deserves a shout-out for how easy they make it to create a delicious vegan pizza. Known for their customizable pies, Blaze Pizza offers several vegan dough options, vegan cheese, spicy vegan chorizo, and a wide selection of veggie toppings, allowing you to build the pizza of your dreams. They also have a Vegan Pizza already designed with the spicy chorizo plus mushrooms, onions, green bell peppers, basil, and an olive oil drizzle.
Blaze Pizza locations across the country make it a convenient option, whether you’re traveling or just looking for a quick bite. The staff is trained to accommodate dietary preferences, making it a great go-to for plant-based eaters.
What to try: Vegan Pizza, of course, and Cinnamon Bread.
Cinnaholic
Got a sweet tooth? Cinnaholic has you covered. This vegan cinnamon roll chain, featured on Shark Tank, has taken a classic dessert and made it plant-based, with customizable toppings to boot. With locations nationwide, Cinnaholic offers a fun, interactive experience where you can build your own cinnamon roll, choosing from flavors like chocolate chip, peanut butter, and caramel. And everything they serve is vegan made in a 100% dedicated vegan facility!
Their rolls are dairy-free, egg-free, and cholesterol-free, so you can indulge without the guilt. They even offer gluten-free options, making it a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth and dietary restrictions.
What to try: Build your own with cream cheese frosting and chocolate chips or get the Old Skool.
Native Foods
One of the original plant-based eateries, Native Foods has been around for nearly 30 years. With locations in California, Colorado, Illinois, and Oregon, Native Foods offers a menu full of vegan comfort food that will satisfy any craving. From hearty bowls and sandwiches to delectable desserts, their offerings are both satisfying and nourishing.
A crowd favorite is their “Chicken Run Ranch” sandwich, featuring crispy, plant-based chicken, ranch dressing, and a side of sweet potato fries. Native Foods also offers seasonal specials, so there’s always something new to try.
What to try: Chicken Run Ranch sandwich, the Buddha Bowl, and oatmeal crème pie.
Next Level Burger
Next Level Burger is America’s first 100% plant-based burger joint, offering a healthier, sustainable twist on classic fast food. With locations across several states, including Oregon, California, and Texas, this eco-conscious chain focuses on organic ingredients, non-GMO products, and environmentally friendly practices.
The menu features an impressive array of burgers, hot dogs, and shakes — all made from plant-based ingredients. Their patties range from house-made quinoa burgers to the popular Beyond Burger and Impossible Burger. They also serve indulgent sides like fries and dairy-free, hand-spun milkshakes, giving you the full burger joint experience without the guilt. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just curious, Next Level Burger lives up to its name by offering delicious, hearty meals that leave both your taste buds and conscience satisfied.
What to try: The Signature Burger with a housemade organic quinoa and mushroom patty, onion rings, and an organic peanut butter cup shake.
Plant Power Fast Food
With a mission to offer fast food that’s better for you and the planet, Plant Power Fast Food has been gaining popularity for its healthier spin on traditional fast-food favorites. You’ll find everything from burgers, fries, and shakes to breakfast sandwiches and even chicken tenders — all completely plant-based.
Their signature “Big Zac” burger is a play on the iconic Big Mac, and it’s a hit even with non-vegans. Plus, they offer gluten-free options, making it an inclusive stop for those with dietary restrictions. With locations primarily in California, this chain is expanding its reach across the U.S.
What to try: The “Big Zac” burger, “carne asada” fries, and a dairy-free cookies and cream shake.
Slutty Vegan
Slutty Vegan is taking the East Coast by storm with its bold, unapologetic brand and even bolder flavors. Based in Atlanta with plans to expand, this vegan burger chain has a cult following, and it’s not hard to see why. Their menu is full of indulgent, over-the-top burgers with names like “One Night Stand” and “Sloppy Toppy.”
Their burgers feature plant-based patties or plant-based chicken, along with decadent toppings like vegan bacon, jalapeños, and special sauces. Slutty Vegan is all about making plant-based eating fun and delicious, and it’s a must-try if you’re lucky enough to be near a location in Georgia, New York, or Texas.
What to try: The One Night Stand burger with vegan bacon, Slutty Fries made with their signature Slut Dust, and Sweet Potato Pie.
Sweetgreen (Vegan-Friendly)
While not entirely vegan or vegetarian, Sweetgreen is beloved for its focus on fresh, wholesome, and plant-forward meals. Known for its customizable salads and warm bowls, Sweetgreen makes it easy to create a nutrient-packed meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
Sweetgreen’s wide selection of greens, grains, vegetables, and plant-based proteins (like roasted tofu and chickpeas) means you can mix and match to suit your preferences. They also offer vegan dressings, so you don’t have to worry about hidden dairy.
What to try: A customized warm bowl with roasted tofu, sweet potatoes, and avocado, drizzled with vegan cashew pesto.
Veggie Grill
If you’re looking for variety, Veggie Grill is a must-visit. This chain, with locations across California, Oregon, Washington, and more, is known for its expansive menu that caters to both vegans and those just dabbling in plant-based eating. Veggie Grill offers bowls, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and even tacos.
Their American Chzburger is a top pick for burger lovers, while their Far East Thai Chik’n Bowl, featuring crispy sesame chik’n with Thai chili sauce and house-made coconut curry sauce, delivers big on flavor. They also offer shareable plates, making it a great option for group dining.
What to try: The American Chzburger, the Far East Thai Chik’n Bowl, and house-made carrot cake.
Conclusion: A Plant-Based Food Revolution
Eating plant-based has never been easier, thanks to the rise of dedicated vegan chains and more plant-friendly menus at mainstream restaurants. Whether you’re a lifelong vegan or simply looking to cut back on meat, these chains offer delicious, convenient options that cater to all tastes.
From indulgent burgers at Slutty Vegan to the healthy bowls at Sweetgreen, there’s truly something for everyone. And with more restaurants joining the plant-based movement every day, you’ll never have to worry about finding a tasty, satisfying meal on the go.
So, the next time you’re craving something plant-based, check out one of these chains and enjoy a meal that’s both good for you and good for the planet!
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