Friendly’s: What’s Vegetarian Editorial Review

Friendly’s works for vegetarians, especially at breakfast, even though the chain has no dedicated veggie burger. The New England diner and ice cream chain keeps its meat-free lineup short but honest, built around egg dishes, a couple of cheese-forward comfort classics, and the sundae bar that made it famous. You won’t struggle to find something to eat, but you’re picking from a shorter list than you’d get at a chain built around vegetarians from the start.

What to order at Friendly’s

Breakfast carries Friendly’s vegetarian options. The Garden Vegetable Omelet, Veggie Scramble, Veggie Quesadilla, and Mushroom, Swiss & Onion Omelet all skip meat and work well as a full meal. Later in the day, the Mac & Cheese and America’s Best Grilled Cheese cover you, and Pancakes or French Toast are fine if you’re not avoiding eggs and milk. For dessert, order an Ice Cream Sundae or a Fribble, the chain’s trademarked thick milkshake that’s been on the menu since its ice cream parlor days.

What to watch out for

Nothing here is vegan as served. Every vegetarian dish on Friendly’s menu leans on eggs, cheese, or milk, so if you’re avoiding dairy, you’re mostly out of luck. The Mini Mozz Sticks and Fried Pickle Chips also run through a shared fryer, worth asking about if cross-contact matters to you. And with fewer than 100 U.S. locations left after Friendly’s 2025 ownership change, check the official location finder before you drive out, since a nearby restaurant may have closed.