ATLANTA, GA (June 1, 2026) – McAlister’s Deli, a leading fast-casual destination for fresh, made-to-order meals, is proud to announce the launch of its new High-Protein Vegetarian Menu. Designed to satisfy the growing demand for plant-forward options that don’t compromise on flavor or protein, this curated selection highlights fresh ingredients and hearty portions.

As more guests seek meat-free alternatives that provide sustained energy, McAlister’s is leaning into its "Giant Spud" legacy and garden-fresh heritage to provide a variety of protein-packed, vegetarian-friendly meals. From protein-packed veggie chili to nutrient-dense vegetables in sandwiches, spuds and salads, the new menu ensures that vegetarian diners have a seat at the table with more than a side salad.

Menu Highlights

The new vegetarian selection features a diverse array of flavors and textures, including:

• The Veggie Sandwich: A power-packed combination of spinach, tomato, cucumber, red onion, and house-roasted multicolored peppers, topped with fresh avocado and herb mayo on toasted 9-grain bread.

• 4 Cheese Melt: The most surprising menu item, featuring Provolone, Swiss, American, Parmesan and Tomato on a toasted Ciabatta, delivers a strong balance between indulgence, flavor, and a meaningful protein contribution with 37 g of protein.

• The Veggie Spud: A massive baked potato loaded with spinach, broccoli, red onions, house-roasted multicolored peppers, and creamy cheese dip.

• Veggie Chili: A hearty, meatless, all-bean chili slow-simmered with traditional savory seasonings, providing a substantial plant-based protein source.

• Garden Salad: A crisp blend of mixed greens topped with cheddar-jack cheese, tomato, cucumber, and crunchy croutons.

• Nacho Basket: A shareable favorite featuring crispy tortilla chips served with zesty jalapeños and signature cheese dip.

Customization at the Core

In addition to these signature items, McAlister’s Deli continues to offer extensive customization across its entire menu. Most menu items can be easily modified to fit a vegetarian lifestyle, allowing guests to build a meal that perfectly suits their dietary preferences and protein needs.

To further customize their meal, guests can also complement their entree with any of our vegetarian-friendly sides. Choose from a bag of chips, fresh fruit, broccoli, potato salad, or a side garden salad. While all sandwiches already come with a side, guests are also welcome to add any of the above vegetarian sides to any other entree to create their perfect combination.

"We want our guests to know that 'vegetarian' doesn't have to mean light," said Jessica Osborne, Marketing Vice President at McAlister's Deli. "By focusing on high-protein ingredients like beans, avocado, and fresh dairy, we are providing meat-free options that are as filling as they are flavorful."

The new vegetarian offerings are available now for dine-in, carryout, and delivery at participating McAlister’s Deli locations. Guests are encouraged to use the McAlister’s app to explore the full menu and join McAlister’s Rewards to earn points on every meat-free meal.

About McAlister’s Deli®

Founded in 1989, McAlister’s Deli® is a fast-casual restaurant chain known for its genuine hospitality, sandwiches, spuds, soups, salads, desserts and McAlister’s Famous Sweet Tea™. In addition to dine-in and take-out service, website and McAlister’s app ordering, McAlister’s Deli also offers catering with a selection of sandwich trays, box lunches, desserts, hot bars including spuds and nachos, and more. As of March 29, 2026, McAlister’s Deli had 570 restaurants in 31 states. Join McAlister’s Rewards for special offers. For more information, visit mcalistersdeli.com to find a restaurant near you, and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X.

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