The most iconic kids’ meal in the fast-food business has to be the McDonald’s Happy Meal. But, while the fast-food giant has a vegan kids’ meals in the UK, in the US, they are nonexistent (currently, anyway—our fingers are still firmly crossed). But this doesn’t mean your little ones have to miss out on some tasty vegan fast food. The chains below offer kids’ meals that are animal-free, better for the planet, and are ultra-satisfying.
Can you eat fast food as a vegan?
Some mainstream fast-food chains don’t have an abundance of vegan options on the menu, especially in the US. But that said, if you’re heading to McDonald’s, Burger King, Carl’s. Jr, or any of the other popular chains, you might be able to swing some plant-based meals. Check out our nine vegan hacks for your favorite fast-food restaurants here. You can also find all of our vegan fast-food guides here (there’s even one for Arby’s!).
But there’s also a totally vegan fast-food industry growing, too—which is great news for the younger plant-based eaters, as many of these totally animal-free chains offer delicious vegan kids’ meals. Keep reading for all the information you need.
Where to buy vegan fast-food kids’ meals
These vegan chains (listed in no particular order) offer tasty, filling meals created with kids in mind.
Veggie Grill
1 Veggie Grill by Next Level
A pillar of the vegan fast-food scene, Veggie Grill was acquired by plant-based chain Next Level Burger in January 2024. While menu changes are forthcoming, for now, you can still find filling kids’ meals at Veggie Grill by Next Level. The menu is specifically for those aged 10 and under, and it includes one cookie and one side option, too. Your little ones can choose from a Beyond Steak burger, mac and cheese, a quesadilla, and chicken tenders from this totally vegan chain. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for even more kids’ meal options in the future.
Find it here
Slutty Vegan
2 Slutty Vegan
Slutty Vegan’s much sought-after burgers, hot dogs, and fries are not just for adults. The chain, which has multiple locations across Georgia, as well as spots in New York, Texas and Alabama, has two options for little ones: the Eat Plants Kids Cheeseburger and the Eat Plants Kids Chik’n Tenders. Both come with a side of fries or a fruit cup and apple juice.
find it here
Next Level Burger
3 Next Level Burger
Vegan burger chain Next Level Burger has something for the “kiddos” at all of its locations, which can be found in Oregon, California, Colorado, New York, Texas, and Washington, with more opening soon. Options include the Kid Burger, which features a Smash patty on an organic bun, Kid Nuggets, and Kid Grilled Chz.
Find it here
Mr. Charlie’s
4 Mr. Charlie’s
For kids who love Happy Meals but aren’t a big fan of animal products, there’s Mr. Charlie’s. This growing chain offers its own take on the fast-food giant’s iconic kids’ meals, which are called Mini Frowny Meals. But don’t let the name fool you, these meals will make your little ones happier than ever. Choose from options like the Mini Frowny Meal Not a Cheeseburger and the Mini Frowny Meal Not a Hamburger. Both options include two nuggets, small fries, and a drink.
find it here
Monty’s Good Burger
5 Monty’s Good Burger
California-based Monty’s Good Burger is a go-to amongst grown-ups, and they also cater to kids, too, so it’s set to become your child’s new favorite place. The Kid’s Meal option consists of a grilled cheese, a choice of fries or tots, and a dipping sauce. For an extra treat, the chain also offers shakes and cookies, too.
find it here
PLNT Burger
6 PLNT Burger
East Coast chain PLNT Burger has curated a special menu just for kids. The Cosmic Kids Meal includes a choice of burger, nuggets, or a grilled cheese sandwich, and comes with small fries, a small drink, and carrot-based fruit snacks, too. If your child has a sweet tooth, PLNT Burger also offers a soft serve and an “Oatasty” shake.
Find it here
Meta Burger
7 Meta Burger
If you’re in Colorado and you’ve got hungry mouths to feed, check out one of Meta Burger’s three locations in the state. The plant-based chain has three options specifically for kids: popcorn chicken, burgers, and mac and cheese. All are served with fries and apple juice.
find it here
For more on vegan fast food, read:
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Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England's southern coast.
