If you’d told teenage me that one day we’d have entire supermarket aisles of vegan burgers and even fast food chains selling them, I wouldn’t have believed you. But here we are. Whether you want a fake-meat whopper, a classic bean burger, or something in between, the UK’s actually doing alright on the vegan burger front.
Over the years I’ve tried a ridiculous number of them, frozen, fresh, BBQ’d, microwaved, pub-grubbed and drive-thru’d. So here’s a breakdown of the best vegan burgers in the UK right now, starting with supermarket buys and then moving onto takeaways and fast food.
Supermarket Vegan Burgers
Beyond Meat Vegan Burgers
If I could only ever eat one supermarket burger again, it would be this one. Beyond Meat is rich, juicy, and weirdly beefy in a way that still manages to be satisfying and not gross. It’s expensive, but worth it for the flavour and texture. Grill it or pan-fry it, either way, it’s the best.
Aldi Plant Menu Ultimate No Beef Burger
Aldi’s had some misses, but this is a hit. It’s thick, meaty, and very satisfying, especially for the price. Not as rich as Beyond, but honestly a brilliant everyday burger.
Linda McCartney 1/4lb Vegetarian Burgers
Thick, meaty-style burgers made from soy protein. They’ve got a good chew and a savoury flavour, kind of like a classic BBQ burger.
Future Burger 2030 (available at Sainsbury’s and online)
Ridiculously realistic. These burgers taste and feel alarmingly like beef, slightly freaky, but good if that’s what you’re into. They’re pricey and aimed more at meat-reducers, but worth a try if you’re feeling fancy.
The No Meat Company No-Beef Burgers (Iceland)
A decent budget-friendly option. These are chunkier than they look in the box, and they cook well from frozen. Not the best texture out there, but totally acceptable if you’re feeding a crowd.
Strong Roots Beetroot and Bean Burger
If you’re not into fake meat, this one’s earthy, wholesome, and great with a dollop of hummus. It’s got more of a ‘real food’ vibe, and the beetroot gives it a nice colour and subtle sweetness.
Naked Glory Quarter Pounders
Tastes closer to the traditional burger experience than most. Slightly smoky, holds its shape well, and one of the better high street options if you want a BBQ-style burger at home.
Takeaway and Fast Food Vegan Burgers
Starbucks Beyond Meat Breakfast Sandwich
This one’s my all-time favourite. A Beyond Meat patty, vegan cheese, and a tofu-based egg alternative in a soft white bun. Proper hot, filling, and satisfying, I’d eat it any time of day.
Burger King Plant-Based Whopper
A solid second place. Flame-grilled and smoky, this one hits the spot when you want something satisfying on the go. Big enough to feel like a proper burger, unlike some others…
McDonald’s McPlant
Look, I should like this. It’s convenient and vegan-certified, but I’ve just never been a McDonald’s fan. Maybe it’s the size? Maybe I’m just a Burger King girl. Still, it’s decent and a good step in the right direction.
Honest Burgers – Plant Burger
Honest Burgers do a great job with this one. Juicy, messy, and made with either Beyond or a custom vegan patty depending on location. Add rosemary fries and it’s a proper meal.
Leon LOVe Burger
Messy, saucy, and a bit sweet, the LOVe Burger is definitely its own thing. It’s not for everyone, but it’s filling and works well with their sides like baked fries or vegan nuggets.
Shake Shack Vegan Crispy Shallot Burger
Less common than the others, but if you’re near a Shake Shack that stocks it, give it a try. The shallots give it a lovely crunch, and the vegan patty is well seasoned. A bit gourmet, a bit junky, good balance.
Final Thoughts
There’s no shortage of vegan burgers in the UK now, whether you’re picking something up from the frozen aisle or grabbing a bite on the go. Beyond Meat is still my top choice for both supermarket and takeaway (hello, Starbucks breakfast sandwich), but there’s something out there for every taste, bean-lovers, fake meat fans, and everything in between.
Before you go…
If you’re vegan or just looking for cruelty-free supplements, chocolate, or meal kits, here are a few brands worth checking out.
Dr. Vegan make fully plant-based supplements with clear ingredients. Use code DR15 to get 15% off.
The links above are affiliate links. If you click through and buy something, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Leave a Reply