Vegan in United States
Enormous variation by region. Coastal cities and college towns have dense vegan infrastructure; rural areas rely on supermarket staples and the plant-based edges of Mexican, Ethiopian, Indian and Thai restaurants.
Plant-based friendliness
82
Dishes that are already plant-based
Bean burrito
Ask for no cheese or sour cream, and confirm the beans have no lard.
Veggie burger
Available at most chains; check the bun and sauce.
Southern greens
Traditionally cooked with pork — ask for a smoked-paprika version.
Bagel with avocado
Plain, sesame and poppy bagels are usually vegan.
Market staples
Peanut butterBeansOatsSoy and oat milkTofuFrozen vegetables
Phrases to use
- No dairy, no eggs, no meat
- Clearer than 'vegan' in some regions.
- Is there butter or chicken stock in this?
- The two most common hidden ingredients.
Watch out for
- Butter finishing on grilled vegetables and toast
- Chicken stock in soups, rice and beans
- Honey in dressings and cornbread
- Natural flavours in snacks that may be animal-derived
Questions people ask
Which US cities are easiest?
Portland, Los Angeles, New York, Austin and the Bay Area have the highest density of fully vegan kitchens.
How do I eat vegan at a highway stop?
Bean burritos, oatmeal, hummus packs, trail mix, fruit and plain bagels are close to universal.