Italian cuisine often lends itself well to plant-based eating, and Maggiano’s Little Italy is no exception.
While the menu isn’t overflowing with vegan options, you can still enjoy a satisfying meal without making endless modifications.
The best part? You can order straight from the menu—no need for special requests or substitutions that make dining out a hassle.
If you’re wondering what to eat at Maggiano’s as a vegan, this guide has everything you need to know.
Vegan Appetizers At Maggiano’s Little Italy
Start your meal with a simple yet delicious plant-based option from the appetizer menu.
Ciabatta Table Rolls
Good news—Maggiano’s ciabatta table rolls are vegan!
While they don’t come with vegan butter, dipping them in olive oil (like a true Italian) is a simple yet delicious way to start your meal.
Vegan Salads At Maggiano’s Little Italy
While Maggiano’s doesn’t offer a fully vegan salad by default, you can easily customize one to fit your needs.
Customizable Italian Tossed Salad
Maggiano’s doesn’t have a vegan salad by default, but you can modify the Italian Tossed Salad by removing the cheese and croutons. What’s left? A fresh mix of olives, red onion, tomato, pepperoncini, and Italian vinaigrette. You can also add avocado for extra richness.
Vegan Salad Dressings:
- House Dressing
- Italian Vinaigrette
Vegan Main Course Options
Maggiano’s has a simple yet satisfying vegan pasta dish that requires no modifications.
Spaghetti Marinara
Simple yet satisfying, this dish features spaghetti topped with a classic tomato and basil marinara sauce.
While it may not be the most adventurous option, it’s made with the same quality and care as Maggiano’s other pasta dishes.
Want a little variety? You can order this as a side for a smaller portion and pair it with another side dish.
Kid’s Ziti with Marinara
If you’re looking for something different, the Kid’s Ziti with Marinara is essentially a mini pasta bake, tossed in Maggiano’s marinara sauce and baked like a lasagna.
No one has to know you ordered from the kid’s menu!
Vegan Side Dishes
Add some extra flavor and nutrition to your meal with these tasty plant-based sides.
Fresh Grilled Asparagus (No Cheese)
This light and flavorful side adds some much-needed greens to balance out the carbs. Since it’s available both with and without cheese, you won’t need to make any special requests.
Roasted Garlic Broccoli
Broccoli gets a flavor boost from roasted garlic, making this a standout side. It’s a great way to add extra veggies to your meal while keeping things delicious.
Dessert Options
Unfortunately, Maggiano’s doesn’t offer any vegan desserts at this time. However, you can finish your meal with a cup of coffee or a shot of limoncello for a traditional Italian touch.
Final Thoughts
While the vegan options at Maggiano’s are somewhat limited, you can still enjoy a satisfying two-course meal.
Start with ciabatta and olive oil, then order spaghetti marinara with a side of broccoli or asparagus. It’s a simple yet filling option that lets you enjoy Italian food without modifications or hassle.
Before you order, check with your location to confirm that these items are still prepared without animal products. Keep in mind that cross-contamination is possible in shared kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happened to Maggiano’s Vegan Sandwich?
Maggiano’s used to offer a veggie sandwich that received great reviews, but it’s no longer on the menu at most locations. If you spot it, give it a try and let us know how it is!
Is Maggiano’s Eggplant Parmesan Vegan?
No, Maggiano’s Eggplant Parmesan is not vegan. The dish is traditionally made with eggplant that is breaded and fried with eggs and dairy-based cheese. Since it contains both egg and cheese, it cannot be modified to be vegan.
If you’re craving an Italian-style eggplant dish, your best option is to order a side of roasted garlic broccoli or grilled asparagus along with spaghetti marinara for a satisfying meal.