Vegan Options At Pei Wei Asian Kitchen: A Full Guide

When you’re vegan, eating out at a chain restaurant can feel like a gamble. You often end up somewhere not by choice, but because friends or family picked the spot.

And let’s be honest—many fast-casual places do the bare minimum when it comes to plant-based options.

But Pei Wei Asian Kitchen? They actually do a decent job.

With tofu as a core protein option, plenty of customizable bowls, and a range of vegan-friendly sauces, Pei Wei is a solid choice for plant-based diners.

So, if you find yourself at Pei Wei, don’t worry—you won’t be stuck with just a side salad. Here’s everything you can order.

Vegan Entrees at Pei Wei

Firecracker Tofu

If you love a sweet and spicy combination, this dish is a great pick. It features:

• Crispy tofu tossed in a spicy-sweet sauce
• Topped with scallions
• Served with rice

It’s a great alternative for those who used to enjoy sweet and sour chicken or similar dishes.

Thai Dynamite Tofu

For those who like bold, fiery flavors, this dish brings the heat. It includes:

• Crispy tofu coated in Sriracha chili soy sauce
• Lime and basil to balance the spice
• Red bell peppers, onions, and scallions
• Served with rice

If you enjoy Thai cuisine or just love a dish with a kick, this one’s for you.

Teriyaki Tofu

For a less spicy option that’s still packed with flavor, teriyaki tofu is a great choice. It comes with:

• Crispy tofu in classic teriyaki sauce
• Red bell peppers, onions, and scallions
• Served with rice

This dish is savory, slightly sweet, and comforting—perfect for those who prefer milder flavors.

Pad Thai (Request No Egg or Chicken; Separate Wok Recommended)

Pad Thai is one of those dishes that can be vegan—but only with modifications. To order it plant-based, make sure to:

• Ask for no egg, chicken, or fish sauce
• Request a separate wok if you’re concerned about cross-contamination

If the restaurant can’t accommodate this request, you can always build your own bowl with a similar flavor profile.

Vegan Sides at Pei Wei

Edamame (Hold the Sauce)

A simple, protein-packed side, steamed edamame is naturally vegan. However, the sauce it comes with is not. Either skip it or ask for a vegan-friendly alternative like chili paste or lime vinaigrette.

White or Brown Rice

Rice is a classic side, and at Pei Wei, both white and brown rice are vegan-friendly. They make a great pairing with tofu dishes or customizable bowls.

Cauliflower Rice

For a lighter, low-carb option, Pei Wei also offers cauliflower rice as a vegan-friendly side.

Build Your Own Vegan Bowl at Pei Wei

If none of the pre-made dishes sound like your thing, Pei Wei lets you customize your own meal—which is always a win for vegans.

Step 1: Choose a Protein

• Five Spice Tofu & Vegetables (Available fried or steamed)

Step 2: Pick a Base

• White rice
• Brown rice
• Cauliflower rice
• Mixed salad greens
• Lettuce cups
• Noodles

Step 3: Choose Your Sauce

• Sesame Ginger Vinaigrette
• Chili Paste
• Lime Vinaigrette
• Dumpling Sauce
• Sweet Chile Sauce

With so many options, you can create a balanced, plant-based meal that suits your cravings.

Is There Anything Pei Wei Could Do Better for Vegans?

Pei Wei does a lot right when it comes to vegan options, but there’s always room for improvement.

One thing that would make a big difference? Vegan appetizers. Right now, there aren’t many plant-based starters beyond edamame. Something like spring rolls or dumplings would be a great addition.

Another issue is cross-contamination. Like most fast-casual restaurants, Pei Wei doesn’t have separate cooking surfaces for plant-based items. This means that even though your dish is technically vegan, it may be cooked in the same space as animal products.

If that’s a deal-breaker for you, be sure to ask the staff about their cooking process before ordering.

Final Thoughts

Pei Wei Asian Kitchen offers more vegan options than most fast-casual chains, making it a solid choice for plant-based diners. 

With a variety of tofu-based entrées, the ability to customize bowls, and several vegan-friendly sauces, it’s easy to put together a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Whether you go for a Firecracker Tofu Bowl, a Teriyaki Tofu Bowl, or a fully customized creation, Pei Wei gives you the flexibility to eat vegan without feeling like you’re missing out.

Hopefully, as demand for plant-based food continues to grow, Pei Wei will expand its menu with even more dedicated vegan options.

Frequently Asked Questions