Applebee’s: What’s Vegetarian Editorial Review

Applebee’s gives vegetarians a real anchor dish, the Impossible Burger, backed by an official Vegan and Vegetarian Menu Guide the chain publishes itself. That guide is upfront about one catch: every single vegan item needs at least one modification, so nothing works exactly as it’s listed on the regular menu.

What to order at Applebee’s

Order the Impossible Burger with no cheese to keep it vegan, on the brioche bun or in a lettuce cup. The Southwest Bowl and Tex-Mex Bowl share a plant-based base of greens, cilantro rice, pico de gallo, black bean and corn salsa, and guacamole once you drop the chicken or shrimp and ask for vegan dressing. The Strawberry Balsamic Salad and House Salad work the same way, and the Kids’ Pasta with Marinara turns vegan with no cheese. Chips with guacamole or chipotle-lime salsa are vegan too, and a baked potato without butter or sour cream makes an easy side.

What to watch out for

The Impossible patty contains coconut oil, worth knowing if you’re managing an allergy. Basket fries and waffle fries share a fryer, so they’re not a clean vegan pick even though the potatoes themselves are fine. Brew Pub Pretzels and the Sizzlin’ Apple Pie stay vegetarian only, since the cheese, honey mustard, and ice cream keep them off the vegan list. Applebee’s also rotates limited-time items, so confirm with the current allergen guide or your server before ordering something specific.