As the demand for plant-based food continues to rise, many fast-food chains have expanded their menus to include vegan-friendly options. Del Taco, a popular Mexican-inspired fast-food chain, has made significant strides in catering to the vegan community by offering a variety of plant-based meals. Whether you’re a long-time vegan, transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle, or simply looking for meat-free alternatives, Del Taco provides a range of delicious and satisfying vegan options.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore all the vegan offerings at Del Taco, from their Beyond Meat tacos to customizable menu items, and provide tips on how to order vegan-friendly meals at this popular chain.
The Rise of Vegan Fast Food
Over the past decade, the fast-food industry has undergone a transformation to meet the growing demand for plant-based meals. Major chains, including Del Taco, have introduced vegan and vegetarian options to attract a broader customer base. With the rise of plant-based alternatives such as Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods, more people are opting for vegan fast food than ever before.
Del Taco was one of the first major fast-food chains to incorporate Beyond Meat products into its menu, making it a go-to spot for vegans craving Mexican-inspired flavors without animal products.
Del Taco’s Vegan-Friendly Menu Options
Del Taco’s menu includes several vegan-friendly items, including tacos, burritos, and bowls. Below is a breakdown of their most popular vegan offerings:
1. Beyond Tacos
Del Taco’s Beyond Tacos are one of the most popular vegan-friendly options. These tacos are made with Beyond Meat, a plant-based protein designed to mimic the taste and texture of ground beef.
- Beyond Taco (Make It Vegan) – Order the Beyond Taco without cheese to make it fully vegan. It includes Beyond Meat, lettuce, and diced tomatoes in a crunchy taco shell.
- Beyond Avocado Taco – This is a vegan-friendly option as-is. It contains Beyond Meat, lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado in a crunchy taco shell, providing a flavorful and satisfying meal.
2. Beyond Burritos
Del Taco also offers Beyond Meat in their burritos, making it easy for vegans to enjoy a hearty and filling meal.
- Epic Beyond Original Mex Burrito (Modify for Vegan) – This burrito comes with Beyond Meat, slow-cooked beans, cilantro-lime rice, diced tomatoes, and onions. To make it vegan, simply request no cheese or sour cream.
- Epic Beyond Fresh Guacamole Burrito – This burrito is loaded with Beyond Meat, slow-cooked beans, cilantro-lime rice, guacamole, diced tomatoes, and onions. It is naturally vegan, making it an excellent choice for plant-based eaters.
3. Vegan Bowls and Salads
For those looking for a lighter meal, Del Taco offers customizable bowls and salads that can easily be made vegan.
- Avocado Veggie Bowl – This bowl is packed with seasoned black beans, cilantro-lime rice, guacamole, diced tomatoes, and lettuce. It is naturally vegan and can be a healthy and satisfying option.
- Customizable Salad – Del Taco’s salads can be customized to be vegan by omitting cheese and using ingredients such as lettuce, tomatoes, beans, and guacamole.
4. Bean-Based Menu Items
If you’re looking for simple, budget-friendly vegan options, Del Taco’s classic bean-based menu items are a great choice.
- Bean & Cheese Burrito (Modify for Vegan) – Request this burrito without cheese, and you’ll have a delicious meal of slow-cooked beans wrapped in a warm flour tortilla.
- 8-Layer Veggie Burrito (Modify for Vegan) – This burrito includes slow-cooked beans, guacamole, cilantro-lime rice, tomatoes, and lettuce. Simply order it without cheese and sour cream to make it vegan.
- Crinkle-Cut Fries – Del Taco’s fries are vegan-friendly, making them a great side option. They are cooked in vegetable oil and contain no animal products.
5. Vegan-Friendly Sides and Add-Ons
Del Taco offers a variety of sides and add-ons that can help enhance your vegan meal:
- Fresh Guacamole – Perfect for dipping or adding to your burritos and tacos.
- Slow-Cooked Beans – A protein-packed side that complements any meal.
- Cilantro-Lime Rice – A flavorful addition to any burrito or bowl.
- Pico de Gallo – A fresh and zesty topping option.
- Avocado – Adds creaminess and nutrition to any dish.
How to Order Vegan at Del Taco
When ordering vegan at Del Taco, here are a few key tips to ensure your meal is 100% plant-based:
- Ask for No Cheese and No Sour Cream – Many of Del Taco’s items come with cheese and sour cream by default, but they can easily be omitted.
- Stick to Vegan-Friendly Proteins – Beyond Meat and slow-cooked beans are the best options for plant-based protein.
- Customize Your Order – Del Taco allows for easy modifications, so don’t hesitate to customize your meal by adding guacamole, rice, or extra veggies.
- Verify Cooking Methods – If you’re concerned about cross-contamination, ask about how certain items are prepared. While Del Taco does cook its plant-based items separately, it’s always good to double-check.
Why Choose Del Taco for Vegan Fast Food?
Del Taco stands out as a great choice for vegans for several reasons:
- Affordability – Compared to other fast-food chains, Del Taco offers budget-friendly vegan options.
- Customization – The ability to modify menu items makes it easier to order plant-based meals.
- Taste & Variety – The inclusion of Beyond Meat allows vegans to enjoy delicious and hearty meals with familiar flavors.
- Accessibility – With locations across the U.S., it’s a convenient option for plant-based eaters on the go.
The Future of Vegan Options at Del Taco
As the demand for plant-based food continues to rise, Del Taco may expand its vegan menu even further. Potential future additions could include:
- More Plant-Based Protein Options – Beyond Meat has been a success, and Del Taco may introduce more vegan protein choices.
- Vegan Cheese and Sour Cream – Many fast-food chains are beginning to offer dairy-free alternatives, which would make vegan ordering even easier.
- Dedicated Vegan Menu – As the market for plant-based fast food grows, a fully vegan section on Del Taco’s menu could become a reality.
Del Taco has proven to be a leader in the fast-food industry by embracing plant-based options and catering to the growing vegan community. With their Beyond Meat offerings, customizable menu, and delicious plant-based sides, Del Taco provides a satisfying and accessible option for those following a vegan diet.
Whether you’re craving tacos, burritos, or just a quick and affordable meal, Del Taco’s vegan options make it easy to enjoy flavorful Mexican-inspired food without compromising your plant-based lifestyle.
So next time you’re near a Del Taco, don’t hesitate to stop in and try one of their delicious vegan-friendly meals!
Additional Ways to Enjoy a Vegan Meal at Del Taco
While Del Taco already offers an impressive range of vegan options, there are ways to make your experience even better. Here are some extra tips and tricks to enhance your vegan meal at Del Taco:
1. Pair Your Meal with a Vegan-Friendly Drink
Most of Del Taco’s beverages are vegan-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to double-check ingredients, especially for specialty drinks. Some great beverage options include:
- Soft Drinks – Most fountain drinks, including sodas and iced teas, are vegan.
- Lemonade – A refreshing plant-based option.
- Black Coffee – If you need a caffeine boost, opt for black coffee, as their flavored creamers may contain dairy.
- Bottled Water – A simple, hydrating choice.
2. Try the Secret Menu Hacks
Like many fast-food chains, Del Taco has a “secret menu”, which allows you to mix and match different ingredients for a customized meal. Some vegan-friendly secret menu options include:
- “Loaded Fries” (Veganized) – Order a side of crinkle-cut fries and top them with slow-cooked beans, guacamole, and pico de gallo for a satisfying snack.
- “Double Avocado Taco” – Request an extra portion of avocado in your Beyond Avocado Taco for a richer flavor.
- “Vegan Fiesta Bowl” – Ask for a bowl with rice, beans, guacamole, lettuce, tomatoes, and extra pico de gallo for a fresh and filling meal.
3. Order Online for Easy Customization
Many Del Taco locations offer online and app-based ordering, which can make customizing your vegan meal easier. By ordering through the app or website, you can remove non-vegan ingredients with a few clicks and avoid confusion at the register.
4. Look for Seasonal and Regional Offerings
Del Taco occasionally introduces limited-time menu items, some of which may be vegan or can be easily modified. Keep an eye out for new additions by checking their website or asking employees about upcoming plant-based options.
The Nutritional Benefits of Del Taco’s Vegan Options
Eating vegan at Del Taco isn’t just about avoiding animal products—it can also be a nutritious choice. Many of their plant-based ingredients provide important nutrients:
- Beyond Meat – A great source of plant-based protein, iron, and essential amino acids.
- Slow-Cooked Beans – Packed with fiber and protein, making them a healthy and filling choice.
- Cilantro-Lime Rice – Offers carbohydrates for energy, along with fresh lime and cilantro for added nutrients.
- Guacamole & Avocado – Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and potassium, helping to support heart health.
- Fresh Vegetables – Ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pico de gallo provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
By making smart choices and balancing your meal with a mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious vegan meal at Del Taco.
How Del Taco Compares to Other Fast-Food Chains
If you’re a frequent traveler or someone who enjoys trying vegan fast food, you might wonder how Del Taco stacks up against other chains offering plant-based options. Let’s take a look at how Del Taco compares to some of its biggest competitors:
1. Del Taco vs. Taco Bell
Pros of Del Taco:
- Offers Beyond Meat, whereas Taco Bell does not have a branded plant-based protein.
- Provides a variety of fresh toppings like guacamole and cilantro-lime rice.
- Has larger portion sizes for similar prices.
Pros of Taco Bell:
- More extensive vegan customization options, including the Black Bean Crunchwrap Supreme (when modified).
- Certified vegan ingredients, with a “vegan” menu section in some locations.
- Offers the ability to “Make It Fresco,” replacing dairy-based toppings with pico de gallo.
2. Del Taco vs. Chipotle
Pros of Del Taco:
- More affordable than Chipotle, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Offers a drive-thru for quick and convenient vegan meals.
- Has Beyond Meat as a plant-based protein alternative.
Pros of Chipotle:
- Provides Sofritas (spicy tofu) as a plant-based protein option.
- More toppings and sauces available, including corn salsa and fajita veggies.
- Offers brown rice and multiple bean options for added variety.
3. Del Taco vs. Qdoba
Pros of Del Taco:
- More locations nationwide, making it more accessible.
- Beyond Meat is included in multiple menu items.
- More traditional fast-food-style pricing.
Pros of Qdoba:
- Offers Impossible Meat as a plant-based protein option.
- Vegan queso is available at some locations, making customization easier.
- Build-your-own bowl options with a wider range of vegan-friendly ingredients.
While each fast-food chain has its strengths, Del Taco remains one of the best choices for vegans looking for quick, affordable, and satisfying plant-based meals.
Common Questions About Del Taco’s Vegan Options
1. Are Del Taco’s tortillas vegan?
Yes! Del Taco’s flour tortillas, corn taco shells, and tostada shells are all vegan-friendly.
2. Does Del Taco use separate grills for Beyond Meat?
Del Taco has confirmed that Beyond Meat is cooked separately from animal-based proteins, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
3. Are Del Taco’s refried beans vegan?
Yes! Del Taco’s slow-cooked beans are vegan and do not contain any lard or animal byproducts.
4. Does Del Taco have vegan cheese or sour cream?
Currently, Del Taco does not offer vegan cheese or dairy-free sour cream, but this may change in the future as demand for plant-based options grows.
5. Are Del Taco’s churros vegan?
No, Del Taco’s churros contain dairy and eggs, making them unsuitable for vegans.
Final Thoughts: Why Del Taco is a Great Choice for Vegans
Del Taco has positioned itself as one of the top fast-food chains offering plant-based options, making it easier than ever to enjoy Mexican-inspired flavors without animal products. From their Beyond Meat tacos and burritos to customizable bowls and sides, there are plenty of delicious vegan-friendly choices on the menu.
As more people embrace plant-based eating, Del Taco’s commitment to offering vegan options sets them apart from other fast-food chains. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal on the go, a budget-friendly vegan burrito, or a satisfying taco made with Beyond Meat, Del Taco delivers on both taste and convenience.
So, the next time you’re craving a tasty and affordable vegan meal, head to your nearest Del Taco and enjoy their wide selection of plant-based goodness!
Have you tried Del Taco’s vegan menu items? What’s your favorite? Let us know in the comments below! 🌮🥑
