Does Dairy Queen Offer a Standard Veggie Burger?
It's a question many plant-based eaters ask when approaching the iconic red Dairy Queen sign: does Dairy Queen do veggie burgers? The short answer is no, not in the same way that some other major fast-food chains do. Dairy Queen's focus has historically been on its classic Grillburgers and chicken sandwiches, along with its famous frozen treats. Unlike competitors that have introduced specific plant-based patties (like Burger King's Impossible Whopper), Dairy Queen has not yet adopted a permanent, dedicated veggie patty for its menu nationwide.
This doesn't mean vegetarians or vegans are entirely out of luck. In fact, many find that a little menu modification and creativity can go a long way at a DQ. While a pre-made veggie patty isn't an option, a hearty and satisfying vegetable sandwich can be easily assembled by ordering a burger without the meat patty and cheese, and asking for extra vegetable toppings. Some local Dairy Queen franchises, particularly in Canada or in certain markets, have been known to offer vegetarian items, but this is not standard across the board. Therefore, the most reliable strategy is to plan for a custom order.
The Custom-Made Veggie Sandwich Hack
To build your own veggie burger alternative, follow these simple steps:
- Start with the base: Order a Grillburger, but specify to the employee that you want it without the meat patty or cheese. The standard split-top bun is vegan-friendly.
- Add your fixings: Load up on all the vegan-friendly vegetables. Standard options typically include fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Don't be shy about asking for extra!
- Choose your sauces: Stick to vegan-friendly sauces like ketchup or mustard. Be cautious of creamy sauces and spreads like mayonnaise, which contain eggs and dairy. For a spicy kick, the BBQ Dipping Sauce or Wild Buffalo Dipping Sauce are excellent vegan choices.
- Make it a meal: Pair your creation with some of Dairy Queen's vegetarian and vegan-friendly sides, such as their famous French Fries.
What Other Vegetarian and Vegan Options Exist at Dairy Queen?
Beyond the custom sandwich, Dairy Queen has expanded its menu to include a few items that are suitable for plant-based diets, though options can be limited. Here is a brief look at some of the other choices:
Sides
- French Fries: The crispy French Fries are cooked in vegetable oil and are a completely vegan-friendly side option.
- Applesauce or Banana: For a lighter, healthier side, the kids' menu often includes applesauce or a banana.
- Pretzel Sticks (without queso): The pretzel sticks themselves are vegan, but you must ask for them without the accompanying queso dipping sauce.
Frozen Treats
- Non-Dairy Dilly Bar: This is one of Dairy Queen's most significant steps toward catering to plant-based diets. Introduced in 2020, this frozen treat features a coconut cream-based vanilla dessert covered in a delicious chocolate-flavored coating.
- Misty Slush: A classic, simple, and refreshing frozen beverage that is free of dairy.
Dairy Queen vs. Other Fast-Food Chains: Veggie Options
When comparing Dairy Queen's vegetarian offerings to other major fast-food players, it's clear where they stand in the market. Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Dairy Queen | Burger King | McDonald's | Wendy's |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dedicated Veggie Patty | No, not standard on US menu. | Yes, Impossible Whopper is a permanent menu item. | No, not currently offered in the US. | No, tested bean-based burgers but no permanent item. |
| Custom Veggie Sandwich | Yes, order a burger without the patty. | Yes, customize any burger or sandwich. | Yes, remove the meat from any sandwich. | Yes, customize any burger or sandwich. |
| Vegan Frozen Dessert | Yes, Non-Dairy Dilly Bar. | No, standard desserts contain dairy. | No, standard desserts contain dairy. | No, standard desserts contain dairy. |
| Vegan Sides | French fries and pretzel sticks (without queso). | French fries, onion rings. | French fries. | French fries, baked potato (without butter/cheese). |
The Future of Plant-Based Options at DQ
While Dairy Queen's current position may seem limited, it's worth noting the company's past statements and trends within the fast-food industry. In 2019, DQ's CEO stated that while the timing wasn't right for plant-based patties then, they were exploring plant-based items and wouldn't rule them out in the future. The successful introduction of the Non-Dairy Dilly Bar suggests that the company is responding to consumer demand for plant-based alternatives. As the market for vegan and vegetarian foods continues to grow, there is always a possibility that a veggie burger could appear on the Dairy Queen menu in the coming years. For now, creativity and custom ordering remain the best approach.
Conclusion
In summary, while the answer to “Does Dairy Queen do veggie burgers?” is officially no for a permanent, dedicated patty in the US, the restaurant is not a lost cause for vegetarians and vegans. By using the custom-made veggie sandwich hack, taking advantage of vegan-friendly sides like fries and the Non-Dairy Dilly Bar, it's still possible to get a satisfying meal. The limited but growing plant-based offerings at DQ show a small but encouraging trend towards wider accommodation for dietary restrictions. Always remember to double-check ingredients with staff, as regional availability and preparation methods can vary.
Authoritative Outbound Link
For the most current information regarding Dairy Queen's menu and ingredient transparency, including allergen statements, it is best to consult the official source: Dairy Queen's Nutrition Facts & Allergy Information.
