The availability of plant-based pizza at Papa John's is not a one-size-fits-all answer, as the menu is heavily influenced by regional offerings. While the pizza chain has expanded its vegan options significantly in certain international markets, most notably the UK, customers in the US and other regions must approach ordering with a customizable mindset. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what to expect from the Papa John's menu in 2025, detailing the differences and providing a clear path for ordering a satisfying plant-based meal.
Plant-Based Pizza in the United States
For customers in the US, Papa John's offers a foundation for a vegan-friendly pizza, but requires customization since dedicated plant-based pizzas are not standard menu items. Key steps and ingredients include:
Customizing Your Vegan Pizza
To build a vegan pizza in the US, you must select the right components and specify your order clearly. This involves choosing from:
- Vegan Crusts: The Original Hand-Tossed, Thin Crust, and New York Style doughs are typically vegan. Other crust options, such as the Garlic Parmesan or Epic Stuffed Crust, are not.
- Vegan Sauces: The Original Pizza Sauce and BBQ sauce are both plant-based. The Special Garlic Sauce is also vegan.
- Plant-Based Toppings: An extensive list of vegetable toppings is available, such as mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, and spinach.
- Avoiding Dairy: Request "no cheese" and specify "no garlic-parmesan crust finish" to ensure the pizza is dairy-free. The "Clean Cut" option can help prevent cross-contamination.
Papa John's UK Vegan Menu
In contrast to the US, Papa John's in the UK has a robust, dedicated vegan menu.
Dedicated Vegan Pizzas
UK customers can choose from a range of vegan pizzas featuring plant-based cheese and mock meats:
- The Vegan Works: Topped with jackfruit "pepperoni," vegan Italian sausage, mushrooms, peppers, onions, and black olives over vegan Sheese®.
- Vegan Cheese & Tomato: A plant-based version with vegan Sheese®.
- Jackfruit "Pepperoni": Features jackfruit-based pepperoni and vegan Sheese®.
- Vegan Garden Party: Loaded with vegetables like onions, peppers, mushrooms, and sweetcorn.
Vegan Sides, Dips, and Crusts
The UK menu also includes vegan appetizers and specialty items:
- Sides: Options like "Not-Chicken" Vegan Bites and Cauliflower Wings are available.
- Desserts: Ben & Jerry's™ non-dairy ice cream is often offered.
- Dips: All dips in the UK are vegan, including Special Garlic Dip and BBQ Dip.
- Stuffed Crust: A vegan cheese stuffed crust is available with the Original base.
Vegan Options in Other Countries
Papa John's vegan offerings vary globally.
- Canada: Similar to the US, customization is needed with no vegan cheese or meat alternatives typically available.
- South Korea: Specific vegan pizza options have been introduced.
- Continental Europe: Menus differ, with some regions offering specific vegan items and others being more limited.
Comparison of Papa John's Vegan Menus (US vs. UK)
| Feature | United States (2025) | United Kingdom (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan Cheese | No dedicated option, must be omitted | Yes, uses vegan Sheese® |
| Plant-Based Meats | No options available | Yes, including jackfruit "pepperoni" and vegan sausage |
| Dedicated Vegan Pizzas | No pre-designed vegan pizzas | Yes, including Vegan Works and Jackfruit "Pepperoni" |
| Vegan Stuffed Crust | Not available | Yes, available with Original base |
| Vegan Sides | Limited (e.g., Original Breadsticks) | Extensive (e.g., "Not-Chicken" Bites, Cauliflower Wings) |
How to Order a Vegan Pizza at Papa John's
To ensure your order is plant-based, follow these steps:
- Check Local Menu: Verify vegan options on your local Papa John's website or app.
- Customize Your Pie: For US orders, select a vegan crust and sauce, then add vegetable toppings. For the UK, choose from the vegan menu.
- Specify Vegan Request: In the US, explicitly ask for "no cheese" and "no garlic-parmesan crust finish." Request a "Clean Cut" to minimize cross-contamination risk.
- Complete the Meal: Add vegan sides or dips appropriate for your location's menu.
Conclusion
Papa John's does offer plant-based pizza, but availability varies significantly by location. The UK boasts a comprehensive vegan menu with plant-based cheeses and mock meats, while US customers must customize a cheese-free pizza using available vegan crust, sauce, and vegetable toppings. Always check your local menu to confirm options.
For additional guidance, the Veganuary website offers specific tips for ordering vegan at Papa John's.
