Denny’s is one of the most well-known diner chains in the United States, serving classic American comfort food 24/7. But if you follow a vegan diet, you may be wondering—can you actually eat at Denny’s without compromising your lifestyle?
While Denny’s doesn’t have a dedicated vegan menu, they do offer a few options that can be customized to fit a plant-based diet.
Though the choices are somewhat limited, with a few modifications and some creativity, you can put together a decent meal.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or joining friends for a late-night meal, here’s everything you need to know about ordering vegan at Denny’s.
Vegan Burger Option at Denny’s
Build Your Own Burger
Denny’s offers a Beyond Burger, making it one of the best plant-based choices on the menu. However, you’ll need to customize it slightly to ensure it’s fully vegan. Here’s how to order:
- Ask for the Beyond Burger patty
- Skip the cheese and butter
- Choose a vegan-friendly bun (ask your server, as options may vary)
- Load up on plant-based toppings like lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, and avocado
- Opt for ketchup or mustard instead of non-vegan sauces
Denny’s may also offer side options like fries or steamed vegetables to go along with your burger. It’s always a good idea to check if any promotions allow you to substitute a plant-based side with your order.
While the Beyond Burger is a great option, it would be even better if Denny’s expanded its plant-based protein offerings with more choices, like a black bean burger or a vegan breakfast sandwich.
Vegan Salad at Denny’s
House Salad (Order Without Croutons & Cheese)
If you’re looking for something lighter, the House Salad can be modified to be fully plant-based. Here’s what to do:
- Ask for no croutons, as they may contain dairy or butter
- Skip the cheese
- Choose a vegan dressing, such as balsamic vinaigrette
- Request additional toppings like avocado, cucumbers, or extra tomatoes for a more filling meal
While this salad isn’t the most exciting option, pairing it with a side of rice, steamed vegetables, or chips and salsa can make it more substantial.
Vegan Side Dishes at Denny’s
If you’re struggling to find a full meal, putting together a plate of side dishes can be a great way to enjoy a variety of flavors. Here are some of the best vegan-friendly sides at Denny’s:
- Broccoli (ask for it to be steamed without butter)
- Seasoned vegetables (confirm they are cooked without butter or animal-based seasonings)
- Whole grain rice
- Chips & salsa
Combining sides like broccoli, rice, and chips with salsa can create a well-rounded meal. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider adding a side of avocado or fresh fruit (if available).
Vegan Breakfast at Denny’s
Denny’s is famous for its all-day breakfast menu, but unfortunately, vegan breakfast options are extremely limited. While they don’t currently offer plant-based pancakes, waffles, or tofu scrambles, there are a few ways to put together a simple vegan-friendly breakfast:
- Oatmeal (ask if it can be made with water instead of milk)
- Fruit Cup (check for yogurt or honey before ordering)
- Toast (confirm it’s not buttered and choose a vegan-friendly bread, such as sourdough or wheat)
- Hash Browns (confirm they are cooked in oil, not butter or animal fat)
While it’s disappointing that there are no official vegan breakfast entrees, hopefully, as demand grows, Denny’s will expand its plant-based breakfast offerings.
Important Ordering Tips for Vegans at Denny’s
Because Denny’s isn’t a fully vegan-friendly establishment, you’ll want to take a few extra steps when ordering to ensure your meal is plant-based:
- Ask for NO butter on any vegetables, rice, toast, or potatoes. Many side dishes are cooked with butter by default, so always request they be prepared without it.
- Check how items are cooked. Some Denny’s locations may prepare hash browns or seasoned vegetables with animal-based fats, so it’s best to ask.
- Confirm salad dressings are vegan. While balsamic vinaigrette is usually a safe choice, dressings can vary by location.
- Be aware of cross-contamination. Denny’s kitchens cook a lot of meat and dairy-based dishes, so there’s always a risk of shared surfaces or fryers. If this is a concern for you, ask your server for more details.
Since recipes and preparation methods can vary by location, always double-check with your local Denny’s to ensure your meal is fully vegan.
Final Thoughts
While Denny’s isn’t the most vegan-friendly restaurant, there are still ways to create a satisfying meal.
The Beyond Burger (without cheese and butter), a modified House Salad, and a selection of sides like whole grain rice and vegetables can make for a decent plant-based meal.
If you’re visiting for breakfast, your best bet is to put together a meal with oatmeal, toast (without butter), fruit, and hash browns if they are cooked without animal fat.
Hopefully, as more restaurants expand their plant-based offerings, Denny’s will introduce more vegan-friendly entrees, breakfast options, and dedicated plant-based sides.
Until then, knowing how to modify your order can make dining at Denny’s much easier.
