Looking for vegan-friendly eats at Noodles & Company? We have some good news. This fast-casual chain has a surprisingly strong lineup of plant-based choices.
From hearty noodle bowls to customizable dishes and fresh veggie add-ons, it’s one of the better spots for vegans on the go.
Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something on the lighter side, our guide will help you build a delicious meal without any meat, dairy, or eggs.
Why Noodles & Company Works for Vegans
Many chain restaurants limit vegan options to a plain salad or a sad baked potato. Noodles & Company is different.
Their menu includes a variety of fully plant-based meals and clearly marked ingredients, making it easy to eat well without stress.
They also offer organic seasoned tofu and veggie-packed pasta options that actually taste great – seriously, even our kids agree.
Plus, the staff are generally helpful when it comes to customizing dishes.
If this all sounds good to you, let’s dive into some of the best vegan picks at Noodles & Company below:
Fully Vegan Menu Items At Noodles & Company
Let’s start with the best part — dishes that are vegan right from the start or can be made vegan with one small change.
1. Japanese Pan Noodles
A fan favorite for good reason. Udon noodles stir-fried with broccoli, carrots, and shiitake mushrooms in a sweet soy sauce. No animal ingredients, just bold, satisfying flavor.
2. Cauliflower Rigatoni Fresca (Order Without Cheese)
This one’s loaded with garlic, tomatoes, onions, and spinach tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette. Just skip the parmesan topping, and it’s fully vegan. The cauliflower-infused pasta has a nice texture and holds up well.
3. Zucchini Roasted Garlic Cream (Swap the Sauce)
Ask to replace the creamy sauce with something vegan, like Japanese Pan Sauce or marinara. Then load it up with tofu and veggies for a light but tasty bowl.
Build-Your-Own Vegan Bowl
If you prefer to make your own creation, Noodles & Company has lots of mix-and-match options.
Here’s how to build a custom vegan bowl that works for your taste and needs.
Vegan-Friendly Noodles and Pasta
Start with some vegan noodles or pasta – there’s plenty to choose from:
- Udon noodles
- Rice noodles
- Cauliflower rigatoni
- Zucchini noodles (zoodles)
- Regular spaghetti
- Gluten-free pipette
Sauces That Are Vegan
Next, add a plant-based sauce, like:
- Japanese Pan Sauce
- Marinara
- Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Sesame Teriyaki
- Korean BBQ (double-check at your location)
Protein and Toppings
Now, it’s time for some protein and toppings to finish it all off:
- Organic seasoned tofu
- Roasted mushrooms, broccoli, spinach, carrots, onions, and tomatoes
- Fresh herbs and crushed red pepper
- No-cost add-ons like black pepper or lemon juice
Pro tip: Add tofu to any bowl for a filling, protein-packed meal. It’s lightly seasoned and works with almost any sauce.
Vegan Side Dishes At Noodles & Company
While the main focus is noodles, you can still add a few extras to round out your meal.
- Side Salad (No Cheese or Dressing): Stick with fresh greens and top with veggies. Use lemon wedges, balsamic vinaigrette, or plain olive oil if available.
- Tofu on the Side: Ask for tofu as a side item or add-on for an extra protein boost.
- Roasted Veggies: Many bowls come with veggies, but you can ask for more on the side or as part of your custom order.
Vegan Drinks
Most locations offer a standard selection of drinks. These are typically vegan:
- Iced tea
- Lemonade
- Coca-Cola fountain drinks
- Bottled water or sparkling water
Always check ingredient labels if you’re avoiding added sugars or artificial ingredients.
What About the Kids’ Menu At Noodles & Company?
While the kids’ menu doesn’t have a dedicated vegan dish, you can still build a simple bowl:
- Spaghetti with marinara
- Zucchini noodles with veggies
- Add tofu if available in kid-sized portions
Skip cheese and butter, and double up on veggies to make it more balanced.
Special Diet Notes: Oil-Free, Gluten-Free, and Low-Sodium Options
If you’re following a vegan diet with other restrictions, here are a few extra tips:
Gluten-Free
- Choose rice noodles, zucchini noodles, or gluten-free spaghetti
- Avoid cross-contact if you’re sensitive or celiac — ask the staff for details
- Most sauces are gluten-free, but double-check with the allergen guide
Oil-Free
- This one is trickier since most sauces contain some oil
- Opt for marinara and request no oil during cooking (not guaranteed, but some locations may accommodate)
- Stick to steamed or roasted veggies and basic noodles
Low-Sodium
- Japanese Pan Sauce and Teriyaki are higher in sodium
- Marinara and balsamic vinaigrette tend to be lower
- Skip soy sauces and request light sauce or dressing on the side
Tips for Ordering Vegan at Noodles & Company
Ordering vegan here is usually straightforward, but a few helpful tips can make it even easier:
- Use their allergen and nutrition guides. These are available online and in-store and clearly list vegan ingredients.
- Ask questions. Staff are generally helpful about substitutions and modifications.
- Skip the cheese and creamy sauces. That’s where most animal products sneak in.
- Add tofu for extra protein. It’s affordable and helps turn any bowl into a full meal.
- Customize boldly. Don’t be afraid to swap sauces or build your own bowl — the options are there for a reason.
Final Thoughts
Noodles & Company stands out as a vegan-friendly chain with lots of variety and flavor.
Whether you’re in the mood for bold noodles, veggie-packed bowls, or something light and fresh, there’s something here that works for plant-based eaters. Their customizable menu and tofu option make it one of the better fast-casual spots for vegans.
Next time you’re on the go or dining with friends, you can feel confident walking into Noodles & Company knowing that a satisfying vegan meal is just a few smart swaps away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Noodles & Company Impossible Chicken Vegan?
No, the Impossible Chicken served at Noodles & Company is not vegan. While the Impossible brand itself is plant-based, the version offered here is prepared with a dairy-based breading, which makes it unsuitable for a vegan diet. If you’re looking for a truly vegan protein option, go for the seasoned organic tofu instead. It’s fully plant-based and works well with most of the noodle and pasta dishes.
What Are the Best Noodles & Company Vegan Options?
Some of the top vegan picks at Noodles & Company include the Japanese Pan Noodles, which are naturally vegan and full of bold flavor thanks to their sweet soy sauce and stir-fried veggies.
The Cauliflower Rigatoni Fresca is another favorite — just be sure to order it without cheese.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, zucchini noodles with marinara or teriyaki sauce are a great choice. You can also build your own bowl using rice noodles, marinara or pan sauce, and plenty of veggies, topped off with organic tofu for added protein.
What Are Healthy Options at Noodles & Company?
If you’re aiming for a lighter or more nutrient-dense meal, try dishes that feature zucchini noodles or cauliflower rigatoni. These options are lower in carbs and calories compared to traditional pasta. The Cauliflower Rigatoni Fresca (without cheese) is a flavorful, veggie-loaded bowl that still feels hearty.
You can also customize your bowl by asking for marinara sauce, skipping cheese, and adding tofu or extra vegetables. Requesting sauces on the side is another great way to manage sodium or fat content while still enjoying a satisfying meal.
