When it comes to finding restaurants with vegan-friendly options, Mexican cuisine is one of the best choices.
Staples like rice, beans, guacamole, tortillas, and salsa are already plant-based, making it easy to customize meals.
Many restaurants now offer vegan meat alternatives like Beyond Meat or Impossible Meat, giving even more variety to plant-based eaters.
However, not all Mexican restaurants are equally accommodating, so knowing which ones offer the best options can make dining out much easier.
To help, we’ve compiled a list of seven Mexican restaurants that serve great vegan options.
1. Chipotle
When you think of Mexican-inspired fast food, Chipotle is probably the first name that comes to mind.
It’s a top choice for both vegans and non-vegans, thanks to its fully customizable menu.
Vegan Options at Chipotle
- Burrito, bowl, tacos, or salad with:
- Cilantro-lime rice
- Black or pinto beans
- Fajita veggies
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Lettuce
- Sofritas (spicy, marinated tofu)
Chipotle makes it easy to build a satisfying, plant-based meal, and the portion sizes are generous.
2. Taco Bell
Taco Bell has been a fast-food staple for decades and has always been a surprisingly good option for vegans.
They even offer a “Fresco Style” option, which removes dairy-based ingredients and replaces them with tomatoes.
Best Vegan Items at Taco Bell
- Bean Burrito (Fresco Style)
- Crunchy or Soft Tacos with beans instead of meat
- Black Bean Chalupa (No Sour Cream, No Cheese)
- Veggie Power Bowl
- Chips and Guacamole
Since most Taco Bell menu items can be modified to be vegan-friendly, it’s a convenient choice for plant-based eaters on the go.
3. Del Taco
In 2019, Del Taco was one of the first fast-food chains to introduce Beyond Meat to its menu, making it a game-changer for vegan Mexican food lovers.
Vegan Options at Del Taco
- Beyond Avocado Taco (made with Beyond Meat and guacamole)
- Epic Beyond Fresh Guacamole Burrito
- Beyond 8-Layer Burrito (No Sour Cream, No Cheese)
- Crinkle-Cut Fries
- Hashbrown Sticks
Even though Beyond Meat options come and go, many Del Taco locations still offer them—so it’s always worth checking.
4. Moe’s Southwest Grill
Often compared to Chipotle, Moe’s Southwest Grill offers a fully customizable menu, making it easy to order a vegan-friendly meal.
Vegan Options at Moe’s
- Burritos, Bowls, and Tacos with:
- Black or pinto beans
- Cilantro-lime rice
- Fajita vegetables
- Guacamole
- Salsa and lettuce
- Vegan Stack (Moe’s version of a quesadilla)
- Tortilla Chips with Guacamole or Salsa
Moe’s also has free chips and salsa with every meal, which is always a bonus.
5. Qdoba
Qdoba is another build-your-own burrito spot, and it became a go-to choice for vegans when it introduced Impossible Meat as an option.
Best Vegan Options at Qdoba
- Impossible Meat Burrito or Bowl
- Black or Pinto Bean Tacos
- Fajita Veggies with Guacamole
- Mexican Gumbo (Without Cheese or Sour Cream)
- Cilantro-Lime Rice and Brown Rice
The addition of Impossible Meat makes Qdoba stand out from other fast-casual Mexican chains, providing a heartier, protein-packed option.
6. El Pollo Loco
While El Pollo Loco is primarily known for its grilled chicken, they made headlines by introducing a vegan chickenless burrito.
Vegan Options at El Pollo Loco
- Chickenless Pollo Burrito (certified vegan by the American Vegetarian Association)
- Rice and Bean Cup
- Side Salad (No Cheese, No Dressing)
El Pollo Loco has not been very transparent about whether other menu items are vegan-friendly. While the Chickenless Pollo Burrito is 100% plant-based, other ingredients are still uncertain.
7. Rubio’s Coastal Grill
Rubio’s, a West Coast favorite, specializes in Tex-Mex cuisine and offers several vegan-friendly options.
Vegan Options at Rubio’s
- Impossible Meat Tacos or Burritos
- Mexican, Citrus, or Brown Rice
- Black or Pinto Beans
- Grilled Veggies
Rubio’s has received some complaints about cross-contamination, as reports suggest they do not use separate cooking surfaces for vegan and non-vegan items.
While the vegan options are delicious, those concerned about shared equipment may want to check with their location before ordering.
Final Thoughts
If you are vegan and love Mexican food, there are plenty of restaurants offering great plant-based options.
Chipotle, Qdoba, and Moe’s Southwest Grill are top choices for fully customizable meals, while Taco Bell and Del Taco provide convenient fast-food options.
El Pollo Loco and Rubio’s also offer plant-based menu items, though there may be concerns about cross-contamination.
With the growing demand for vegan-friendly Mexican food, more restaurants are expanding their menus, making it easier than ever to enjoy a delicious, plant-based meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can These Restaurants Guarantee Their Food Is Vegan?
While these restaurants offer vegan-friendly menu items, there is always a risk of cross-contamination in shared kitchens. If you are concerned, ask staff about preparation methods before ordering.
Are These Restaurants Good Quality?
Yes! Each of these restaurants is well-known for fresh, flavorful food. Whether you prefer fast food or casual dining, these options cater to a variety of tastes.
Will These Meals Be Filling?
Absolutely. Many of these meals include beans, rice, and plant-based protein, which are all highly satisfying and nutrient-dense.
