Navigating Papa Johns' Vegan Options
For vegans, ordering at Papa Johns requires paying close attention to specific ingredients, especially since the menu varies by country. The key is understanding which core ingredients are naturally plant-based and what substitutions are needed. While UK locations boast a dedicated vegan menu with cheese, US diners must build their own pizza carefully.
Vegan-Friendly Pizza Building Blocks
To construct a vegan pizza, you'll need to start with the right crust and sauce. Fortunately, Papa Johns provides options that are naturally free of animal products.
Crusts:
- Original Hand Tossed Dough: The default choice for many, this classic crust is vegan.
- New York Style Dough: Also a reliable vegan option, offering a thinner slice.
- Thin Crust: A great vegan option for those who prefer a less doughy base.
- What to Avoid: The Garlic Parmesan Crust, Epic Stuffed Crust, and Gluten-Free Crust (in the US) all contain dairy or eggs and are not suitable for vegans.
Sauces:
- Original Pizza Sauce: The signature tomato sauce is naturally vegan and full of flavor.
- BBQ Sauce: A smoky and sweet option that is also plant-based.
- Buffalo Sauce: For those who like a spicy kick, this is a vegan-friendly choice.
- What to Avoid: The Alfredo and Ranch sauces contain dairy.
Toppings:
Load up your pizza with a wide variety of fresh, plant-based toppings. Some locations may offer more than others, but these are generally safe:
- Onions
- Green Peppers
- Mushrooms
- Tomatoes
- Black Olives
- Green Olives
- Pineapple
- Jalapeños
- Banana Peppers
- Spinach
Ordering for US vs. UK Diners
While the basic components of a vegan pizza are consistent, one major difference separates the US and UK menus: the availability of vegan cheese. This distinction dramatically impacts the ordering experience and final product.
| Feature | United States & Canada | United Kingdom |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Cheese | Not available. Must order 'no cheese.' | Available and featured on dedicated vegan pizzas. |
| Vegan Meats | Limited to vegetable toppings; no vegan meat alternatives offered. | Features Jackfruit 'Pepperoni' and vegan Italian sausage. |
| Vegan Specialty Pizzas | Must build your own cheeseless pizza. | Offers pre-designed vegan pizzas, such as the Vegan Works and Vegan Garden Party. |
| Vegan Sides | Original breadsticks (must check for parmesan seasoning), signature garlic dipping sauce. | Wider variety, including Vegan Cheese Potato Tots and 'Not-Chicken' Vegan Bites. |
| Desserts | No vegan-friendly dessert options. | Includes Ben & Jerry's non-dairy ice cream and Cinnapie Sticks. |
Making Your Order Truly Vegan
When ordering, especially in the US, clear communication is crucial. In addition to selecting your vegan-friendly base and toppings, you must explicitly state that you want no cheese. To avoid cross-contamination with non-vegan cheese or meat, ask for a 'clean cut' or 'no cut'. This prevents your pizza from being sliced on the same surface as a dairy-covered one.
Another point of consideration is the signature garlic parmesan crust finish. In the US, this is typically an oil and seasoning brush applied after baking. While some sauces may be vegan, it's best to specify 'no garlic finish' to be safe. In the UK, the Special Garlic Dip is vegan, while the Garlic & Herb sauce contains egg.
Conclusion
Yes, vegans can eat at Papa Johns, but the experience and options vary significantly by location. For US diners, the primary method involves building a cheeseless pizza with vegan crust, sauce, and vegetable toppings, and ensuring clear communication to avoid non-vegan ingredients and cross-contamination. UK customers benefit from a robust vegan menu, complete with plant-based cheese, meat alternatives, and dessert. While the convenience of ordering is high, remember to always double-check your local menu and communicate your vegan needs clearly to the staff for a satisfying and worry-free meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Papa Johns' Vegan Options
Q: What is the best vegan pizza to order at Papa Johns in the US? A: In the US, the best vegan pizza is a customized one. Start with the Original or Thin Crust, use the Original Pizza Sauce, and load it up with all your favorite vegetable toppings like mushrooms, onions, and jalapeños, making sure to specify "no cheese" and "no garlic finish".
Q: Is Papa Johns' garlic dipping sauce vegan? A: In the United States, the famous Special Garlic Dipping Sauce is vegan-friendly as it is made with soybean oil instead of butter. In the UK, the Special Garlic Dip is also vegan, but confirm ingredient differences if you are in a different international location.
Q: Does Papa Johns offer vegan cheese? A: Papa Johns UK locations offer a vegan cheese alternative called Sheese®. As of late 2024, Papa Johns in the United States and Canada do not offer vegan cheese and require customers to order cheeseless pizza.
Q: Can vegans eat Papa Johns' breadsticks? A: The Original Breadsticks are made with vegan dough. However, in the US, you must request them without the parmesan seasoning, which is not vegan. Confirm with staff if they will be prepared with the dairy-free garlic dip instead.
Q: Are there any vegan side dishes besides pizza? A: In the US, the only reliable vegan side is the Original Breadsticks (ordered without parmesan) served with the Special Garlic Dipping Sauce. UK locations offer a much wider selection, including vegan tots and 'Not-Chicken' bites.
Q: Is the gluten-free crust at Papa Johns vegan? A: No. The gluten-free crust at Papa Johns contains milk, making it unsuitable for vegans. The Original, Thin, and New York Style crusts are vegan-friendly instead.
Q: How can I prevent cross-contamination when ordering? A: When ordering, explicitly ask for a "clean cut" or "no cut." This instructs the staff to use a clean cutter or knife to slice your pizza, minimizing the risk of contact with dairy or meat products from other pizzas.
