The vegetarian fast food industry focuses on providing health-conscious diners with quick and delicious meal options that cater to a growing demand for plant-based food. It includes a variety of companies from local chains to international brands, featuring menus filled with sandwiches, salads, and innovative meat alternatives. Consumers are increasingly seeking healthier choices without sacrificing convenience, prompting these companies to enhance their offerings and emphasize sustainable practices. As more individuals adopt a vegetarian ethos, this market is expanding rapidly, bringing fresh flavors and new techniques to a traditionally meat-centric fast food sector.

This list features a range of 21 vegetarian fast food companies, varying in size from small establishments to larger corporate chains. Headquartered in countries such as Canada, the USA, and Australia, these companies were founded from 1968 to 2015 and specialize in healthy, plant-based meals. Their menus include salads, wraps, burgers, and diverse specialty items, indicating a broad approach towards meeting changing consumer preferences for dietary options.

Continue reading to explore the top vegetarian fast food companies.

Top 21 Vegetarian Fast Food Companies

1. Freshii

• Website: freshii.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 80%, United States (USA) 11%, United Arab Emirates 2%, Other 7%
• Latest funding: $54.5M, December 2022
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: freshii

Freshii, founded in 2005 and headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, is a fast casual restaurant chain that focuses on providing healthy and nutritious food options. The company offers a menu that includes burritos, wraps, soups, salads, and smoothies, all designed to cater to health-conscious consumers. Freshii emphasizes customization, allowing customers to tailor their meals to meet various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options. With over 300 locations across multiple countries, Freshii has established itself as a player in the fast casual dining industry. The company has also received significant funding, with its last funding round reported at over $54 million in December 2022, indicating ongoing investor interest and support for its growth and expansion efforts.

2. Grill'd

• Website: grilld.com.au
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
• Employee distribution: Australia 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: grill%27d-pty-ltd

Grill'd is a family-owned casual dining restaurant chain based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, founded in 2004. The company specializes in healthy burgers and quick service meals, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Grill'd offers a variety of meat and plant-based burgers, salads, and catering services, catering to health-conscious consumers. The brand is known for its commitment to nutrition, with all menu items made from 100% natural ingredients and free from artificial additives. Grill'd actively engages in community support through initiatives like Local Matters, which allocates funds to local causes based on customer votes. The company has also made strides in sustainability, partnering with organizations to promote environmentally friendly practices. With a workforce of approximately 1,484 employees, Grill'd continues to expand its presence across Australia, focusing on providing nutritious dining options while giving back to the community.

3. MAX Burgers

• Website: max.se
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Sävast, Norrbotten, Sweden
• Employee distribution: Sweden 90%, Poland 4%, Norway 3%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: max-burgers

MAX Burgers, founded in 1968 in Gällivare, Sweden, is a family-owned fast food restaurant chain that specializes in hamburgers and related food items. With over 180 locations across Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Poland, MAX Burgers has established itself as a significant player in the fast food industry. The company emphasizes quality ingredients and sustainability, aiming to provide quick-service meals that meet the needs of modern consumers. MAX Burgers has been proactive in expanding its menu to include vegetarian options, such as the Delifresh Plant Beef, reflecting a growing trend towards plant-based diets. The company is also recognized for its commitment to environmental responsibility, having been awarded for its sustainability initiatives. This focus on health, sustainability, and social responsibility positions MAX Burgers as a relevant choice for consumers looking for vegetarian fast food options.

4. Saladworks

• Website: saladworks.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: St. Petersburg, Florida, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, United Kingdom (UK) 15%
• Latest funding: June 2015
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: saladworks

Saladworks, LLC is a restaurant franchise founded in 1986, based in St. Petersburg, Florida. The company operates over 150 locations across the United States and Canada, focusing on fast casual dining. Saladworks specializes in made-to-order salads, wraps, soups, and sandwiches, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Their menu features a wide array of fresh ingredients, allowing customers to customize their meals according to personal tastes and dietary requirements. The company also offers catering services, providing options for events and gatherings. With a commitment to fresh and healthy dining, Saladworks has established itself as a notable player in the fast casual segment, particularly for those seeking vegetarian and health-oriented meal options.

5. Chopt Creative Salad Company

• Website: choptsalad.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Rye Brook, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Latest funding: November 2015
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: chop%27t-creative-salad-company

Chopt Creative Salad Company, founded in 2001 and based in Rye Brook, New York, operates as a fast casual restaurant chain that focuses on healthy dining. The company has carved out a niche in the fast food industry by offering a menu that includes salads, warm grain bowls, and wraps, with a significant emphasis on plant-based ingredients. Chopt's commitment to using fresh, locally sourced produce is evident in their partnerships with local farms, which supports sustainable agricultural practices. The company has expanded its footprint across multiple states, catering to a health-conscious demographic seeking convenient meal solutions. Chopt also prioritizes sustainability, utilizing 100% compostable bowls and aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Their innovative approach to menu development and customer engagement, such as the Chopt Rewards program, further enhances their position in the market.

6. Bareburger

• Website: bareburger.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Queens, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, United Arab Emirates 6%, Germany 3%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), November 2018
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: bareburger-group-llc

Bareburger, founded in 2009 and based in Queens, New York, is a restaurant chain that specializes in organic and sustainable dining options. The company has carved out a niche in the fast food industry by focusing on high-quality ingredients and eco-friendly practices. With a menu that includes not only traditional burgers but also a range of plant-based options, Bareburger appeals to a broad audience, including vegetarians and vegans. The restaurant chain operates multiple locations across the United States and has expanded internationally, showcasing its growth and relevance in the fast food sector. Bareburger emphasizes its commitment to sustainability, sourcing ingredients responsibly, and providing a dining experience that aligns with health-conscious values.

7. EXKi

• Website: exki.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
• Employee distribution: Belgium 65%, France 30%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: exki

EXKi is a private fast-casual restaurant chain founded in 2001, headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. The company operates around 80 locations across Europe, primarily in Belgium and France. EXKi specializes in healthy, plant-based meals, offering a menu that includes salads, sandwiches, and hot dishes. Their focus on sustainability is evident in their sourcing of high-quality ingredients and their commitment to providing nutritious options for both individual consumers and businesses. EXKi also offers meal delivery and catering services, enhancing convenience for customers seeking healthy dining solutions. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without external financial backing.

8. Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe

• Website: tazikis.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Vestavia Hills, Alabama, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: taziki%27s-mediterranean-cafe

Taziki's Mediterranean Cafe is a family-owned restaurant chain founded in 1998, based in Vestavia Hills, Alabama. The cafe specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, offering a menu that includes gyros, sandwiches, salads, and various vegetarian options. With a commitment to health-conscious dining, Taziki's sources ingredients from local and Mediterranean farmers, emphasizing quality and freshness. The company operates in a fast-casual dining environment, providing both dine-in and catering services. Taziki's has established a presence across the United States, focusing on community dining experiences and promoting the Mediterranean diet, which encourages plant-based eating. They have not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without external financial backing.

9. Habit Burger & Grill

• Website: habitburger.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Latest funding: $375.0M, January 2020
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: the-habit-burger-grill

Habit Burger & Grill, founded in 1969 and based in Irvine, California, is a fast casual restaurant chain known for its chargrilled hamburgers and a variety of meal options. The company emphasizes fresh ingredients and quality dining experiences, catering to customers looking for quick service without compromising on taste. Their menu includes not only burgers but also sandwiches, salads, and sides, appealing to a broad audience. Habit Burger has made strides in the industry by introducing vegetarian options like the Veggie Burger with Cheese and the Impossible Burger, reflecting a growing trend towards plant-based diets. The company has also received significant funding, amounting to $375 million in early 2020, which supports its expansion and innovation efforts. With a workforce of over 2,000 employees, Habit Burger continues to operate primarily in the United States, focusing on providing a satisfying dining experience through dine-in, take-out, and catering services.

10. Just Salad

• Website: justsalad.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, United Arab Emirates 4%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: $200.0M, February 2025
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: just-salad

Just Salad, founded in 2006 and based in New York City, is a fast casual restaurant chain that specializes in salads and healthy meal options. The company has carved out a niche in the fast food industry by offering customizable salads, wraps, and catering services, all while emphasizing fresh ingredients and sustainability. Just Salad has made notable strides in promoting environmental responsibility, being the first U.S. restaurant to implement carbon labeling on its menu items. This initiative allows customers to make informed choices based on the carbon footprint of their meals. The company has also introduced reusable bowl programs to reduce waste. With a workforce of around 520 employees and significant venture capital backing, including a recent funding round of $200 million in February 2025, Just Salad continues to expand its reach and influence in the health-focused dining sector.

11. Burger Lounge

• Website: burgerlounge.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, India 6%, Oman 3%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: burgerlounge

Burger Lounge is a fast-casual restaurant chain based in San Diego, California, founded in 2007. The company specializes in high-quality burgers and emphasizes the use of grass-fed beef and organic ingredients. Their menu includes a range of options, from traditional beef burgers to salads and catering services. Notably, Burger Lounge has made strides in sustainability, sourcing ingredients that are better for both health and the environment. They offer plant-based alternatives, such as the Impossible Burger and an Ancient Grain Burger, catering to the growing demand for vegetarian and vegan options. The company operates multiple locations across California and has built a reputation for quality and commitment to eco-friendly practices.

12. Baja Fresh

• Website: bajafresh.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Scottsdale, Arizona, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $27.0M, September 2016
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: fresh-enterprses-baja-fresh-la-salsa-%26-canyons-burgers-

Baja Fresh is a fast-casual restaurant chain founded in 1990, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. The company specializes in fresh Mexican cuisine, offering a menu that includes burritos, tacos, salads, and various sides. Baja Fresh prides itself on using handmade meals prepared from farm-fresh ingredients, avoiding processed foods. The brand operates through a network of franchise locations across the United States, catering to consumers seeking healthier dining options. In 2016, Baja Fresh secured $27 million in funding, indicating investor confidence in its business model and growth potential. The company emphasizes its commitment to quality and freshness, with a philosophy that prioritizes flavor and nutrition over fillers and processed ingredients.

13. Pieology Pizzeria

• Website: pieology.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Rancho Santa Margarita, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: October 2017
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: pieology-pizzeria

Pieology Pizzeria, founded in 2010 and based in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, operates as a fast-casual dining restaurant that specializes in customizable pizzas. With a workforce of approximately 816 employees, Pieology has established itself as a player in the fast-casual dining sector across the United States. The company allows customers to craft their own pizzas, salads, and calzones using house-made dough and fresh sauces. Notably, Pieology offers a variety of toppings, including options that cater to gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian diets. This focus on customization and fresh ingredients positions Pieology as a unique dining experience that meets individual preferences. The company operates independently, emphasizing its commitment to customer satisfaction and quality. While there has been no recent funding reported, Pieology continues to thrive in the competitive fast-casual market, appealing to a broad audience with its innovative approach to pizza.

14. Mad Mex

• Website: madmex.com.au
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
• Employee distribution: Australia 94%, New Zealand 4%, United States (USA) 2%
• Latest funding: September 2018
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: mad-mex-fresh-mexican

Mad Mex Fresh Mexican Grill is a fast-food restaurant chain founded in 2007, based in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The company specializes in Mexican cuisine, providing a variety of customizable dishes such as burritos, tacos, and nachos. With a focus on fresh ingredients and quick service, Mad Mex aims to deliver meals that combine convenience with quality. They also offer catering services for events, expanding their reach beyond traditional fast food. The company has a strong presence in Australia, with a smaller footprint in New Zealand and the United States. Their menu includes options for various dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan choices, which they promote through their nutritional calculator and meal generator. This approach reflects their commitment to inclusivity in food choices, catering to customers with different dietary preferences.

15. Salad and Go

• Website: saladandgo.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: salad-and-go

Salad and Go is a private drive-thru restaurant chain based in Dallas, Texas, founded in 2013. The company operates with a clear mission: to make fresh, nutritious food convenient and affordable for everyone. With over 100 locations across multiple states, Salad and Go has carved out a niche in the fast food industry by offering a menu that primarily features salads, wraps, and breakfast items. Their culinary approach is led by Executive Chef Daniel Patino, who emphasizes the use of fresh, whole ingredients in creating flavorful meals. The company has gained recognition for its commitment to quality and speed, with an average order preparation time of under 15 seconds. Salad and Go also engages in community outreach, partnering with local non-profits to combat hunger and homelessness, further solidifying their role as a socially responsible business in the fast food sector.

16. Cafe Gratitude

• Website: cafegratitude.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Kansas City, Missouri, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Saudi Arabia 8%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: cafe-gratitude

Cafe Gratitude is a vegan restaurant chain founded in 2003, with a mission to promote health and wellness through plant-based nutrition. The company operates locations primarily in Los Angeles, California, and has gained recognition for its commitment to clean, organic ingredients. Their menu features a range of options, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all designed to cater to health-conscious consumers. Cafe Gratitude emphasizes community engagement and personal development, creating a unique dining experience that goes beyond just food. The restaurant's philosophy is rooted in principles such as gratitude, love, and abundance, which guide their operations and interactions with customers. While the company has not reported any funding, it continues to thrive in the competitive vegan dining sector, attracting a loyal customer base.

17. Veggie Grill by Next Level

• Website: veggiegrill.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2024
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: veggie-grill

Veggie Grill by Next Level is a plant-based restaurant chain based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2006. The company specializes in offering a variety of delicious and sustainable food options, including burgers, bowls, salads, and sandwiches, all made from 100% plant-based ingredients. Veggie Grill emphasizes the use of organic vegetables and a commitment to sustainability, appealing to health-conscious consumers and those interested in environmentally friendly dining. With multiple locations across the United States, Veggie Grill provides online ordering and a rewards program to enhance customer engagement. In 2024, Veggie Grill was acquired by Next Level Burger, creating the largest wholly owned plant-based restaurant company in North America, which further solidifies its position in the fast food industry. The company actively promotes the benefits of plant-based eating, highlighting its positive impact on health and the environment.

18. Which Wich

• Website: whichwich.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: which-wich

Which Wich is a sandwich shop founded in 2003 and based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The company operates in the fast-casual dining sector, providing customizable sandwiches, catering services, and a rewards program for its customers. With a focus on quality ingredients, Which Wich aims to satisfy consumers looking for quick meal options, as well as businesses needing catering for events. The company has expanded its menu to include vegan and vegetarian options, reflecting the increasing consumer interest in plant-based diets. This strategic move not only enhances their appeal but also positions them competitively in the fast food industry. As of now, Which Wich operates with a workforce of approximately 56 employees and has not reported any recent funding activities.

19. Taco Bell

• Website: tacobell.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, Canada 4%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%, Other 9%
• Latest funding: Series A, June 2022
• Founded year: 1962
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: taco-bell

Taco Bell Corp. is a fast food restaurant chain based in Irvine, California, specializing in Mexican-inspired cuisine. Founded in 1962, the company has grown to operate over 8,200 locations, with a significant number being franchise-owned. Taco Bell is known for its quick and affordable meal options, including tacos, burritos, and specialty items. The company has actively engaged in the fast food industry by adapting its menu to meet changing consumer preferences, particularly in the realm of vegetarian offerings. Taco Bell has also implemented initiatives to enhance customer experience, such as the Taco Bell Rewards program, which encourages customer loyalty. With a workforce of over 74,000 employees, Taco Bell continues to be a prominent player in the fast food sector, focusing on innovation and customer satisfaction.

20. Amy's Drive Thru

• Website: amysdrivethru.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Rohnert Park, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: amys-drive-thru

Founded in 2015 and based in Rohnert Park, California, Amy's Drive Thru is a fast food restaurant that prioritizes organic and plant-based food options. The company aims to redefine the fast food experience by providing quick, healthy meals for busy families and travelers. With a menu that includes organic burgers, pizzas, burritos, and salads, Amy's Drive Thru caters to a health-conscious clientele. The restaurant operates multiple locations, including at the San Francisco Airport, and emphasizes sustainability in its operations. The absence of reported funding indicates a self-sustaining business model, allowing the company to focus on its mission without external financial pressures.

21. Chopped Leaf

• Website: choppedleaf.ca
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Oakville, Ontario, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: the-chopped-leaf

Chopped Leaf is a fast-casual restaurant chain based in Oakville, Ontario, Canada, founded in 2009. The company specializes in healthy meal options, including a variety of salads, wraps, and bowls, catering primarily to health-conscious consumers and families. With a commitment to using fresh ingredients, Chopped Leaf allows customers to customize their meals, enhancing the dining experience. The chain operates over 115 locations across Canada and the United States, reflecting its growth and popularity in the fast-casual dining sector. Chopped Leaf has positioned itself as a go-to option for those seeking nutritious meals on the go, and its marketing efforts focus on making healthy eating appealing and accessible. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without external financial backing.

Vegetarian Fast Food Insights: Key Companies

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