Vegan Options At McAlister’s Deli: What Can You Order?

McAlister’s Deli might not be the first place you think of when it comes to vegan-friendly dining, but it actually offers a surprising number of plant-based options. 

From customizable sandwiches and loaded baked potatoes to vegan chili and fresh salads, there’s more to choose from than you might expect.

In this guide, we’ll cover the current vegan options at McAlister’s Deli, how to order them correctly, and what ingredients you need to watch out for.

Need a Quick Vegan Order From McAlister’s?

In a rush? Here are two easy vegan orders you can place at McAlister’s Deli without much customization:

• Veggie Chili in a Bread Bowl – A hearty, plant-based chili served in a sourdough bread bowl. Garnish with crispy onions and blue corn tortilla chips.
• Garden Salad (Modified) – Order with no cheese and no croutons. Add avocado, black olives, and roasted peppers for extra flavor. Top with sherry shallot dressing or olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette.

These are reliable go-to options if you find yourself at the counter without time to think. Keep reading to discover more vegan-friendly meals and customizable choices.

What Is McAlister’s Deli Known For?

McAlister’s Deli is a casual dining chain best known for its oversized sandwiches, stuffed baked potatoes, fresh salads, and famous sweet tea. 

Originally created as a sandwich-focused eatery, the chain quickly expanded to offer more variety, including soups, spuds, and family-friendly platters.

The sandwiches at McAlister’s are especially popular, thanks to their signature 13-layer structure and generous fillings. The baked potatoes are similarly impressive, served in portions large enough to serve as a full meal.

While plant-based options were limited in the past, McAlister’s has become more accommodating to vegan diets over the years.

The Complete List of Vegan Options at McAlister’s Deli

The following options are based on the most recent menu information. However, ingredients and preparation methods may vary by location. Always double-check with staff if you’re unsure.

Vegan Baked Potato Options

McAlister’s baked potatoes (or spuds) can be customized with a range of vegan-friendly toppings. Start with the Craft Your Own Spud option and build from there.

1. JustASpud (Modified)

A plain baked potato that can be customized with toppings.

• Ask for no butter and no sour cream.
• Add vegan toppings like:
  • Black olives
  • Avocado (extra charge)
  • Tomatoes
  • Jalapeños
  • Green onions
  • Red onions

2. Veggie Spud (Modified)

This version starts with more veggie-based toppings.

• Ask for no cheese or butter.
• The spud comes with:
  • Broccoli
  • Spinach
  • Roasted peppers
  • Red onions
• Add extras from the list above if desired.

Vegan Salad Options

Most salads at McAlister’s are vegetarian but not vegan. The only option that works with modifications is the Garden Salad.

Garden Salad (Modified)

• Ask for no cheese and no croutons (croutons are made with beef-based flavoring).
• Add any of these vegan-friendly toppings:
  • Black olives
  • Jalapeños
  • Red onions
  • Avocado (extra charge)
  • Roasted peppers (extra charge)

Vegan Salad Dressings

• Sherry Shallot Dressing
• Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Note: The Chili Lime Vinaigrette and Fat-Free Raspberry Pecan Dressing may contain unspecified flavorings that could be animal-derived.

Vegan Sandwich Options

While McAlister’s doesn’t offer pre-made vegan sandwiches, you can build your own sandwich with these vegan-friendly ingredients.

Vegan Bread Choices

• Baguette
• Wheat Wrap
• Bread Bowl
• Sliced Wheat (double-check locally)
• Ciabatta

Vegan Toppings

• Avocado (extra charge)
• Spring mix
• Black olives
• Spinach
• Cilantro
• Tomatoes
• Cranberry compote
• Red onions
• Crispy onions
• Cucumbers
• Bell peppers
• Sauerkraut
• Green onions
• Jalapeños
• Roasted tri-color peppers

Vegan Condiments

• Olive oil
• Olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette
• Orange cranberry sauce
• Spicy brown mustard

Pro Tip: Ask for your sandwich grilled without butter if you prefer it toasted.

Vegan Soup Option

McAlister’s only offers one vegan soup, but it’s a fan favorite.

Veggie Chili

This hearty chili is made with plant-based ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and peppers. Order it in a:

• Regular bowl
• Bread bowl (vegan-friendly)

Vegan Garnishes

• Blue corn tortilla chips
• Saltines (double-check packaging)
• Tortilla chips
• Jalapeños
• Crispy onions
• Green onions

Vegan Side Options

While sides are somewhat limited, McAlister’s does offer a few vegan-friendly choices:

• Applesauce (check for added sugars or flavorings)
• Tomato and cucumber side salad (without cheese or croutons)
• Fresh fruit cup
• SunChips Original (confirm ingredients locally)
• McAlister’s Deli Sea Salt Kettle Chips

Note: The BBQ and Sour Cream & Onion Chips contain dairy and are not vegan.

How to Order Vegan at McAlister’s Deli

Ordering vegan at McAlister’s requires minor modifications but is pretty straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Pick a Base (Potato, Sandwich, Salad, or Soup)
2. Remove Non-Vegan Ingredients (Cheese, butter, sour cream, mayo, croutons)
3. Add Vegan Toppings (Olives, avocado, onions, jalapeños, etc.)
4. Choose a Vegan-Friendly Dressing or Sauce (Sherry Shallot Dressing, Spicy Brown Mustard, or Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinaigrette)

Pro Tip Use the McAlister’s app to customize your order ahead of time, so you don’t feel rushed at the counter.

Final Thoughts

While McAlister’s Deli isn’t a vegan-first restaurant, it does offer more plant-based options than many other sandwich shops. 

From the hearty veggie chili to the customizable baked potatoes and build-your-own sandwiches, you can enjoy a satisfying meal with a few simple adjustments.

McAlister’s continues to expand its menu, so keep an eye out for new vegan-friendly additions in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions