Cracking the Code: Eating Vegan at Portillo’s
Okay, so you’re craving that Chicago vibe, maybe even dreaming of a Portillo’s run, but you’re vegan? I get it. Portillo’s isn’t exactly the first place that springs to mind when you think “plant-based,” right? Famous for its Italian beef and those crazy-good chocolate cakes, navigating the menu can feel like dodging bullets. But don’t despair! While it’s no vegan mecca, there are ways to enjoy a meal there. Let’s break down what you can actually eat at Portillo’s right now.
The Plant-Based Garden Dog: Your Go-To Vegan Win
Let’s cut to the chase: the Plant-Based Garden Dog is your best bet. Seriously, it’s a confirmed vegan option. Portillo’s rolled this out back in May 2022, and it’s a Field Roast plant-based sausage nestled in a steamed poppy seed bun, loaded with all the classic Chicago dog fixings. We’re talking mustard, relish, celery salt, freshly chopped onions, sliced tomatoes, sport peppers, and a Kosher pickle. The works!
Portillo’s is pretty clear that this dog is vegan. Now, here’s the thing: it is cooked on the same grill as the meat. However, they’ve dedicated a section of the grill just for the Garden Dog. That said, they can’t 100% guarantee there won’t be any contact with meat. Just something to keep in mind.
Salads: A Little DIY Action Required
Alright, so none of the salads are vegan straight off the menu. But don’t let that stop you! The Garden Side Salad is your canvas. Ditch the croutons and cheese, obviously. The good news? They’ve got a few vegan-friendly dressings to choose from. I’m talking House Dressing, Lite Italian Dressing, and Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette. Boom!
You can also hack the Chopped Salad. Just hold the cheese, chicken, and bacon. Make sure you grab one of those vegan dressings, too.
Breads and Buns: Carb-Loading Options
Need some bread with that? You’re in luck. The 6-inch French Bread, Hamburger Bun, and Hot Dog Bun are all vegan.
The No-Go Zone: What to Avoid
Here’s the sad part: the fries. Yep, those crispy, delicious fries are cooked in beef tallow. Major bummer, I know. And all the pasta? Dairy. So, steer clear.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
- Cross-Contamination is Real: Portillo’s is upfront about the possibility of cross-contamination with allergens like milk and eggs. If you’ve got serious allergies, take precautions and chat with the staff.
- Menus Change: Things change, you know? Ingredients get swapped, items come and go. Always double-check the vegan options with the staff when you order. And peek at the allergen info on their website.
- Limited Selection: Let’s be real, Vegan Unlocked gave Portillo’s a 1-out-of-5-star rating for vegan options. There’s not a ton to choose from.
The Bottom Line
Look, Portillo’s isn’t overflowing with vegan choices, but that Plant-Based Garden Dog is a solid win. And with a little tweaking, you can make that Garden Side Salad work. Fingers crossed they’ll add some more plant-based goodies in the future! Just remember to double-check everything and chat with the staff to make sure your meal fits the bill. Happy eating!