Denny's has increased its plant-based options, allowing vegan customers to find satisfying meals. While the Beyond Burger was a past limited-time item, Denny's now features a Dr. Praeger's California Veggie Patty.
Vegan Breakfast Options at Denny's
Denny's now offers the Plant-Based Pancake Slam across all U.S. locations. You can also build your own vegan breakfast.
The Plant-Based Pancake Slam
This vegan entree includes two multigrain wheat pancakes made with flaxseeds, cinnamon, and brown sugar. It comes with hash browns and seasonal fruit. Denny's confirms these pancakes are dairy- and egg-free, though prepared on shared surfaces. PETA notes this doesn't compromise the vegan nature of the ingredients.
Build Your Own Vegan Breakfast
You can customize your breakfast with options like toast, English muffin (no butter), hash browns, red-skinned potatoes, and seasonal fruit. Oatmeal or grits can be requested with water instead of milk. Sautéed vegetables like onions and mushrooms can be added.
Vegan Lunch and Dinner Options
Lunch and dinner options include customizing a burger or skillet.
The Dr. Praeger's Veggie Burger
To make a vegan burger with the Dr. Praeger's California Veggie Patty: select a vegan bun (like brioche or whole-wheat) or a lettuce wrap, omit cheese and non-vegan sauces, and add vegan toppings such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, avocado, caramelized onions, and mushrooms. Vegan sauces include ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce, or bourbon sauce.
Modify a Skillet
Meat, eggs, and cheese must be removed from skillets. For example, the Fit Fare Veggie Skillet can be ordered without egg whites.
Vegan Side Dishes, Sauces, and Dressings
Many sides and dressings are vegan or can be modified.
- Sides: Options include French fries, seasoned fries, side salad (without cheese or croutons), steamed broccoli, sweet petite corn, red-skinned potatoes, seasonal fruit, and chips with salsa. Sautéed zucchini and squash are available without butter.
- Dressings: Balsamic vinaigrette, Italian fat-free, and French dressing are vegan-friendly options.
The Cross-Contamination Conversation
Denny's uses shared cooking surfaces and fryers, which means vegan items may come into contact with non-vegan ingredients. While this is a concern for those with severe allergies, many vegans consider it acceptable for supporting restaurants offering plant-based choices. Discuss concerns with your server.
Denny's Vegan Options: Before and Now
| Item | Pre-2023 | 2025 Onwards |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Burger | Trialed Beyond Burger at some locations | Dr. Praeger's Veggie Patty nationwide |
| Vegan Pancakes | None widely available | Plant-Based Pancake Slam added to permanent menu |
| Protein Options | Primarily limited to modifications of existing dishes like skillets and salads | Dedicated pancake entree and customizable veggie patty burger |
| Availability | Dependent on regional or limited-time offerings | More standardized and widely available across all US locations |
Conclusion
Denny's offers definite vegan options despite being a traditional diner. The Plant-Based Pancake Slam and Dr. Praeger's veggie patty, along with customizable sides, provide ample choices. Knowing modifications allows for an enjoyable vegan meal at any time, reflecting a positive response to the demand for plant-based food.
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