If you’re vegan and planning a meal out with family or friends, you might be wondering if there’s anything for you at Captain D’s.
Known mostly for fried fish and seafood platters, this chain isn’t exactly famous for its plant-based choices. But the good news? With a little menu know-how, you can still enjoy a satisfying vegan-friendly meal there.
We’ve taken a close look at what you can order and what to skip, so you don’t have to play the guessing game at the counter.
Is It Possible to Eat Vegan at Captain D’s?
Let’s be honest—Captain D’s isn’t designed with vegans in mind. Most of the menu is centered around fish, shrimp, and chicken, and many side dishes are cooked with butter, milk, or other animal ingredients.
That said, if you’re visiting with family or simply tagging along with a group, there are still a few things you can order to piece together a decent plant-based meal.
The trick is knowing which sides to pick and how to customize them.
These Sides Can Be Vegan (With Small Tweaks)
Here are the most reliable options for building your own vegan plate at Captain D’s. These items are either vegan as-is or can be made vegan with simple adjustments:
- Baked Potato: Ask for it plain with no butter, sour cream, or cheese. You can season it yourself with salt and pepper or bring a little vegan butter from home if you’re feeling fancy.
- Steamed Broccoli: This one’s usually a safe bet. It’s just plain broccoli, lightly steamed and free of added fats or seasonings. Check with the staff just to make sure nothing extra has been added.
- Corn on the Cob: Skip the butter and you’re good to go. You might want to add your own salt or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
- Side Salad: A simple side salad can work well. Ask them to hold the cheese and croutons, and go for the fat-free Italian dressing if it’s available. It’s often the only vegan dressing on the menu, but double-check just in case ingredients have changed.
Put these together and you’ve got a comforting combo that’s warm, colorful, and filling – even without the fish.
What You’ll Want to Avoid At Captain D’s
It’s easy to assume a few items on the menu are vegan-friendly when they’re not.
Some are cooked with animal-based broths or oils, and others have hidden dairy or egg ingredients.
Here’s a list of foods to steer clear of:
- French Fries: They might seem harmless, but they’re cooked in the same oil as chicken and seafood. If you’re okay with shared fryers, these might work. But for many vegans, that’s a no-go.
- Green Beans: These are often cooked Southern-style, which usually means bacon or meat-flavored broth. Definitely not plant-based.
- Seasoned Rice: It’s a real shame, but this dish contains dairy, so this one’s out.
- Hush Puppies and Fried Okra: Both contain milk and eggs. Not suitable for vegans.
- Coleslaw: Made with a mayo that includes egg, so it’s off the list.
- Breadsticks: These are hit or miss. Some sources say they’re dairy-free, but others mention milk in the ingredients. Your best bet is to ask the staff at your local Captain D’s before taking the risk.
Vegan Drinks at Captain D’s
Luckily, finding something vegan to drink is much easier. Here are a few options you can count on:
- Soft Drinks: Captain D’s usually carries a variety of Pepsi products, and most of them are vegan-friendly.
- Iced Tea: You can go with sweet or unsweetened tea. Both are safe, simple, and refreshing.
Extra Tips for a Stress-Free Visit
Going out to eat as a vegan doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few tips to help make your meal at Captain D’s a little easier:
- Ask the Staff: Don’t be afraid to ask how something’s prepared. Ingredients and cooking methods can vary by location, so it’s always good to double-check.
- Stick to the Basics: Build your meal around the items you know are safe—like baked potatoes and steamed veggies—and customize from there.
- Bring a Little Something Extra: If you happen to be planning ahead, pack a small container of vegan dressing or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. It can really make a plain salad or potato more enjoyable.
- Don’t Expect a Full Meal: Let’s be realistic about this – Captain D’s probably won’t be your go-to for vegan dining. But in a pinch, you can still make it work.
Final Thoughts
Captain D’s isn’t overflowing with vegan options, but if you’re going there with loved ones or just need something quick while on the road, it’s possible to piece together a simple meal.
Stick to steamed veggies, a baked potato, and a side salad, and you’ll walk away fed and feeling good about your choices.
It’s always worth speaking up and asking questions – sometimes those conversations can lead to better options down the road. And who knows? If more people ask about plant-based meals, places like Captain D’s might eventually add more to their menus.
