Exploring Applebee’s Vegan Options: A Guide

Surprisingly, Applebee’s has a wealth of vegan-friendly dishes for those on a plant-based diet, despite popular belief that fast food chains may not offer much for those who want to order vegan. Surprisingly, Applebee’s offers a wide range of vegan-friendly dishes to suit any palate. This comprehensive guide will explore all the vegan-friendly choices at Applebee’s.

From plant-based proteins and satisfying sides to delicious dressings and refreshing beverages, there is something for every vegan palate. We’ll also touch upon allergen information to ensure your dining experience remains safe and enjoyable.

Dive into our extensive exploration of Applebee’s vegan options and discover how easy it can be to enjoy a delicious meal without compromising your dietary preferences.

Table of Contents:

Eating Out: Applebee’s Vegan Options

applebees vegan options

As a vegan, dining out can sometimes be challenging when finding suitable options. Fortunately, Applebee’s has a selection of vegan dishes to choose from. This section will examine the vegan-friendly appetizers, entrees, and desserts Applebee’s offers.

Appetizers

While the selection of vegan appetizers may not be extensive at Applebee’s, some tasty choices are still available. The most popular option is their Chips & Salsa – ask for no cheese or sour cream on your chips. Additionally, you could opt for their House Salad without croutons and with a vegan dressing (more on dressings below).

Entrees

Finding an entree as a vegan at Applebee’s might require some customization, but fear not; delicious meals are still waiting for you. Some options include:

  • Veggie Burger: Order the Veggie Burger without cheese or mayo and swap out the bun if it contains dairy products. You can also add extra veggies like lettuce and tomato.
  • Pasta Primavera: Ask your server if they offer Pasta Primavera made with marinara sauce instead of Alfredo sauce. Be sure to request no Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Fajita Vegetables: Enjoy fajita vegetables served over rice or corn tortillas (if available). Make sure there is no butter used during cooking.

Desserts

Unfortunately, Applebee’s dessert menu offers no explicitly vegan options. However, you can always ask your server if they have fresh fruit available as a light and refreshing end to your meal.

Remember that menus may vary by location, and it is always best to communicate with your server about your dietary preferences. Don’t be afraid to customize dishes or inquire about substitutions to enjoy a satisfying vegan meal at Applebee’s.

Eating out at Applebee’s doesn’t have to be a challenge for vegans. You can enjoy delicious vegan options in this popular restaurant chain with the right menu items. Next, let’s investigate some plant-based proteins on Applebee’s menu.

Key Takeaway: 

Applebee’s offers a variety of vegan-friendly dishes, including Chips & Salsa without cheese or sour cream, House Salad with vegan dressing, and customizable entrees such as Veggie Burgers without cheese or mayo. For those with vegan dietary needs, there is no designated dessert on the menu; however, it’s possible to request fresh fruit. Don’t be afraid to customize your order and communicate with your server about dietary preferences.

Plant-Based Proteins

applebees vegan options

At Applebee’s, vegans can enjoy several protein-packed meals with a few modifications and special requests. While the menu may not specifically cater to vegans, with a few changes and special requests, you can enjoy delicious meals packed with protein.

Lentil Soup

Applebee’s offers a hearty lentil soup, which is naturally vegan and rich in plant-based proteins. This lentil soup is packed with plant-based proteins and fiber, making it nutritious and filling.

Veggie Burger (Customized)

While Applebee’s does not have a specific vegan burger, they offer a veggie burger. To make it suitable for vegans, request a burger without cheese or mayo. To enhance its flavor profile, you can also ask for additional toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion rings, or avocado.

Fajita Vegetables & Black Beans (Customized)

The fajita vegetables served at Applebee’s consist mainly of bell peppers and onions cooked in savory spices. Pair these veggies with black beans – another great source of plant-based protein – by requesting them as part of your meal when ordering one of their fajita dishes. Again, make sure to specify no meat or dairy products should be included in your dish.

Tips for Customizing Your Order:

  • Always inform your server that you’re vegan and ask for their assistance in customizing your meal.
  • Be specific about what ingredients you’d like to be excluded or included in your dish.
  • Request a list of all the dish’s components to ensure it is compatible with veganism.

Finding plant-based protein options at Applebee’s may require creativity and customization, but with these suggestions, you can enjoy delicious meals while sticking to your vegan lifestyle. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and make special requests when ordering – most restaurants happily accommodate dietary preferences.

Plant-based proteins are an excellent option for vegans to get the essential nutrients they require. With so many vegan sides and salads available at Applebee’s, there will surely be something for everyone.

Key Takeaway: 

Applebee’s may not have a vegan-specific menu, but several plant-based protein options are available with some modifications and special requests. For example, Lentil soup and fajita vegetables paired with black beans are great protein sources, while the veggie burger can be customized without cheese or mayo. Always inform your server that you’re vegan, and don’t hesitate to make special requests when ordering.

Sides and Salads

applebees vegan options

When dining at Applebee’s, vegans can still enjoy a variety of sides and salads by making simple modifications to their order. While the menu may not be as extensive for those who don’t eat meat products, delicious vegan options are still available.

Sides

Vegans can enjoy the following side dishes at Applebee’s:

  • Baked Potato: Order without butter or sour cream.
  • Fries: Confirm with your server that they are cooked in vegetable oil.
  • Steamed Broccoli: Request it to be prepared without butter.
  • Garden Salad: Customize it by removing cheese and croutons, then choose a vegan dressing (see below).

Vegan-Friendly Salads

In addition to the Garden Salad mentioned above, you can customize other salad options on the menu. Here are two popular choices that can easily be made vegan-friendly with some adjustments:

  1. Oriental Grilled Chicken Salad: To make this salad vegan, request no chicken or almonds (due to the honey glaze) and substitute the Oriental vinaigrette dressing with one of the vegan dressings listed below. Be mindful that the Asian greens in this salad may contain traces of fish sauce; consult your server if you have doubts about cross-contamination. You could also ask for extra veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers to bulk the salad.
  2. Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad: Order this salad without chicken, cheese, and tortilla strips. Substitute the Chipotle Ranch dressing with a vegan-friendly option from the list below. Add extra veggies like avocado or black beans for more flavor and nutrition.

Vegan Dressings

To complete your salad at Applebee’s, choose one of these vegan dressings:

  • Fat-Free Italian
  • Lemon Olive Oil Vinaigrette (available upon request)
  • Balsamic Vinegar (ask for it on the side)

Remember that menu item may vary by location and availability. Always communicate your dietary preferences with your server to ensure you receive a delicious and satisfying meal.

Sides and Salads at Applebee’s offer various vegan options, from fries to steamed broccoli. The Sauces and Dressings section provides various tasty options to add flavor to any meal.

Key Takeaway: 

Vegans can still enjoy sides and salads at Applebee’s by making some simple modifications to their orders. The Baked Potato, Fries, Steamed Broccoli, and Garden Salad are all vegan-friendly with some adjustments. Additionally, vegans can customize other salad options on the menu by removing non-vegan ingredients and choosing a vegan dressing like Fat-Free Italian or Lemon Olive Oil Vinaigrette.

Sauces and Dressings

Customizing dishes to suit vegan preferences is easy; replace non-vegan sauces and dressings with plant-based options, such as the Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette.

The following list contains some popular vegan-friendly sauces and dressings available at Applebee’s:

  • Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
  • Fat-Free Italian Dressing
  • Lemon Olive Oil Vinaigrette (available in select Applebee’s locations)
  • Salsa Verde (available in select Applebee’s locations )
  • Mango Habanero Sauce (for those who like it spicy.)
  • Chipotle Lime Salsa

Please note that these options may not contain animal-derived ingredients, but they could still be prepared on shared equipment with non-vegan items. If you are worried about cross-contamination, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for more details before ordering.

In addition to the listed vegan-friendly sauces and dressings, you can also consider asking for simple condiments such as mustard or ketchup if they suit your taste buds better. To ensure you get accurate information about what’s vegan at Applebee’s, click here for their current menu.

Dining out as a vegan doesn’t have to be a challenge, and Applebee’s offers various sauces and dressings that can help you customize your meal. Double-check with the staff or online resources for any recent changes in ingredients or preparation methods.

Sauces and dressings can be a great way to liven up vegan dishes but don’t forget the drinks. Next, we’ll explore Applebee’s options for drinks that are suitable for vegans.

Beverages

When dining at Applebee’s, you’ll be pleased to know that several vegan-friendly beverages are available to enjoy alongside your meal. Applebee’s has covered you from refreshing soft drinks and juices to satisfying hot beverages.

Soft Drinks and Juices

For those seeking a cold drink, Applebee’s has an array of sodas from Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, and Dr. Pepper. For those who prefer something less fizzy but still thirst-quenching, consider ordering one of their fruit juices, such as orange or apple juice.

Coffee and Tea

Vegans can also indulge in a warm coffee or tea at Applebee’s. Their regular brewed coffee is vegan-friendly by default; however, if you’d like some creamer, ask the server if they have any plant-based milk alternatives. As for tea lovers out there – rejoice. Most teas served at Applebee’s are suitable for vegans too. Again, double-check with your server about potential non-vegan ingredients in flavored teas before selecting.

Alcoholic Beverages

In addition to the above-listed options, adults may opt for an alcoholic beverage when visiting Applebee’s (please drink responsibly). Many beers and wines are considered vegan since they don’t contain animal-derived fining agents during production; however, not all alcohol falls under this category, so it is best practice to verify each specific brand using resources like Barnivore.

To sum up, Applebee’s offers a good selection of vegan-friendly beverages to enjoy during your visit. If you’re unsure about the ingredients in any of the drinks, feel free to ask the staff for assistance.

Beverages can be a great way to sate your desire and relish the vegan lifestyle. So let’s look at some of Applebee’s delicious dessert options.

Desserts

While Applebee’s may not be known for its vegan dessert options, a few delicious treats can satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your plant-based lifestyle. So let’s uncover the delightful vegan desserts at Applebee’s restaurants.

Fruit Bowl

A simple yet refreshing option is the Fruit Bowl. This light and healthy choice typically include seasonal fruits such as melon, pineapple, grapes, and strawberries. It is an excellent way to end your meal on a naturally sweet note while sticking to your vegan diet.

Sorbet or Sherbet (Availability Varies)

In some Applebee’s locations, nondairy sorbet or sherbet is available. These fruity frozen treats are usually made with fruit puree and sugar but do check with the staff if they contain any non-vegan ingredients like honey before ordering.

Tips for Vegan Dessert Lovers:

  • If you’re craving something more indulgent than what Applebee’s offers regarding vegan desserts, consider visiting nearby bakeries or cafes specializing in plant-based sweets after dining at the restaurant.
  • You could also try making your scrumptious vegan chocolate cake or other delectable desserts at home using readily available recipes online.
  • If you have a favorite local bakery that offers amazing vegan treats, suggest them to Applebee’s management so they might consider adding similar items to their menu.

While Applebee’s dessert menu may not overflow with vegan options, a few choices are still available to satisfy your sweet cravings. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for assistance customizing your order or learning more about their ingredients and preparation methods. You can savor an exquisite vegan feast from starters to desserts at Applebee’s with ingenuity and initiative.

Applebee’s has a selection of vegan desserts to conclude your meal delectably. For those with allergies or sensitivities, the following heading will provide more information about the allergen information for each menu item.

Key Takeaway: 

Applebee’s offers a few vegan dessert options, including the Fruit Bowl and sorbet or sherbet (availability varies). If you’re craving something more indulgent, consider visiting nearby bakeries or cafes specializing in plant-based sweets. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for assistance customizing your order or learning more about their ingredients and preparation methods.

Allergen Information

This will help you make informed decisions when ordering and ensure that your meal aligns with your dietary preferences.

To access accurate allergen information, visit Applebee’s, Allergen Menu. Here, you can find detailed information about ingredients and potential cross-contamination risks for every item on their menu.

Tips for Navigating the Allergen Menu:

  1. Filter by dietary preference: Use the filter options provided to narrow down dishes that cater specifically to vegans or other dietary restrictions.
  2. Cross-check with menu items: Once you have identified potential vegan-friendly options from the allergen list, double-check them against Applebee’s regular menu to confirm availability at your location.
  3. Contact customer service: If you doubt any specific ingredient or dish, do not hesitate to contact Applebee’s customer service team via their website or phone number (1-888-592-7753) before placing an order.

In addition to consulting online resources like Applebee’s official website and social media channels, it is always a good idea to communicate directly with restaurant staff when visiting in person. Informing servers of your vegan requirements upfront can help prevent misunderstandings and provide additional guidance on customizing dishes according to your needs. Also, remember that menus vary between locations and change seasonally; staying updated through various sources will enhance your overall dining experience at Applebee’s.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Applebee’s brioche buns vegan?

Applebee’s brioche buns are not vegan as they contain eggs and dairy products. Instead, vegans should opt for a lettuce wrap or request their burger without the bun.

Are Applebee’s french fries vegan?

Yes, Applebee’s french fries are vegan. They are cooked in vegetable oil and do not contain any animal-derived ingredients. However, cross-contamination with non-vegan items may occur during cooking.

Is the impossible cheeseburger from Applebee’s vegan?

The Impossible Burger patty is plant-based and suitable for vegans; however, it comes with non-vegan toppings such as cheese and mayo at Applebee’s. To make it fully vegan-friendly, ask to remove these toppings and swap out the bun for a lettuce wrap or another option if available.

Are the croutons at Applebee’s vegan?

The croutons at Applebee’s may not be suitable for vegans due to the potential use of butter or other animal-derived ingredients during preparation. Therefore, it is best to inquire about specific ingredients when ordering your salad.

What Sauces and 

Conclusion

Dining out as a vegan can be complicated, but Applebee’s has many simple choices. With plant-based proteins, sides and salads, sauces, and dressings that are all suitable for vegans, there is something on the menu for everyone. Enjoy one of their delicious non-dairy desserts or beverages to top off your meal. Be sure to check the allergen information if you have any food allergies before ordering to enjoy Applebee’s vegan options safely.

If you’re looking for vegan options at Applebee’s, our comprehensive guide can help. We provide the latest information on vegan menu items so you can make informed dining choices.

Also see

Sonic Vegetarian Options: A Comprehensive Vegan Guide

Exploring Jack in the Box Vegetarian Options

Vegan Dining at Chilis: Your Guide to Delicious Options

Applebee’s Vegetarian and Vegan Menu Guide

applebees vegan options

This information is applicable as of 2/21/22. ©2022 Applebee’s Restaurants LLC. All Rights Reserved
Vegan Menu Guide 
Applebee’s defines vegan as not containing animal products or byproducts, including meat, 
rennet, gelatin, eggs, dairy, or honey. Because we have multiple sources of animal products in our 
shared cooking and prep areas, including common fryer oil, we are unable to guarantee that any 
menu item be completely free of animal products or byproducts. Limited time offers, regional items, 
or test items may not be included. 
Menu Items 
Tips 
Appetizers 
  Brew Pub Pretzels & Beer Cheese Dip (no 
beer cheese dip or honey mustard, add 
marinara 
  White Queso Dip & Chips (no white 
queso, add guacamole) 
 
  Sauces/Dips that are vegan: 
o  Marinara 
o  Guacamole  
o  Chipotle Lime Salsa  
Salads 
  Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad (no 
chicken) 
 
  Dressings that are vegan: 
o  Italian Dressing 
o  Lemon Olive Oil Vinaigrette  
  Substitute an Impossible patty for the 
meat/seafood in any salad 
Pasta 
  Breadsticks with Alfredo Sauce (no 
alfredo and garlic butter, substitute 
marinara) 
 
  Pasta noodles are vegan 
  Marinara is vegan  
  Substitute an Impossible patty for the 
meat/seafood in any pasta 
Irresist-A-Bowls 
  Southwest Chicken Bowl (no chicken) 
  Tex-Mex Lime Shrimp Bowl (no shrimp) 
 
  Substitute an Impossible patty for the 
meat/seafood in any bowl 
Handcrafted Burgers 
  Impossible Cheeseburger (no cheese) 
 
  Brioche Bun is vegan  
Sandwiches & More 
  No options available at this time 
  Breads that are vegan 
o  Brioche Bun 
o  Flour Tortilla 
Sides 
  Baked Potato (no butter or sour cream) 
  Ask for a side of black bean corn salsa  
applebees vegan options

This information is applicable as of 2/21/22. ©2022 Applebee’s Restaurants LLC. All Rights Reserved 
  Fries 
  Waffle Fries  
  Steamed Broccoli (no butter) 
Soups & Side Salads  
  House Salad (no cheese) 
o  Italian Dressing 
o  Lemon Olive Oil Vinaigrette  
 
  Avoid All Soups  
Desserts 
  No options available at this time 
 

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