Following a carnivore diet means consuming only animal-based foods—primarily meat, fish, eggs, and some animal fats—while avoiding all plant-based ingredients like fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and sugars. While this might seem challenging in a world dominated by fast food chains serving carb-heavy meals, it’s entirely possible to enjoy fast food while adhering to a carnivore lifestyle. The key is knowing what to order, what to avoid, and how to customize your meals at popular restaurants.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore carnivore-friendly fast food options at some of the most popular chains in the U.S. and beyond. We’ll also provide expert tips on how to make smarter choices, avoid hidden carbohydrates, and stay committed to your dietary goals without sacrificing convenience.
Understanding the Carnivore Diet Basics
Before diving into fast food options, it’s crucial to understand the core principles of the carnivore diet. Unlike keto or paleo, the carnivore diet is more restrictive and excludes all plant foods. It’s built on the belief that animal products provide all the necessary nutrients humans need, and that eliminating plant intake reduces inflammation, improves mental clarity, and promotes weight loss.
What You Can Eat on Carnivore
- Beef (steak, ground beef, roasts)
- Pork (bacon, pork chops, pork belly)
- Lamb and other red meats
- Poultry (chicken, turkey, duck)
- Fish and seafood (salmon, sardines, shrimp)
- Eggs (preferably pasture-raised)
- Animal fats (tallow, lard, butter, bone marrow)
- Organ meats (liver, heart, kidney)
Foods to Avoid on Carnivore
While the list of approved foods is short, the list of exclusions is long. On a strict carnivore diet, avoid:
- All fruits and vegetables
- Grains (wheat, oats, rice)
- Legumes (beans, lentils)
- Sugars and artificial sweeteners
- Plant oils (canola, soybean, vegetable oil)
- Processed snacks and condiments with sugar or starches
This strict framework makes navigating fast food restaurants tricky—but not impossible.
Why Choose Fast Food on a Carnivore Diet?
Fast food often gets a bad rap for being unhealthy, but for carnivore dieters, it can be a surprisingly viable option. Many fast food chains offer 100% meat-based items or can be customized to fit a zero-carb, plant-free menu. When you’re on the go, traveling, or simply don’t have time to cook, knowing which restaurants to visit and what to order can make all the difference in your ability to stick with carnivore long-term.
Fast food can be a strategic tool for dietary adherence, as long as you’re informed and selective.
Carnivore-Friendly Fast Food Chains and Menu Options
Below, we break down popular fast food chains and identify their carnivore-compliant options. We also include helpful tips for customizing your order.
Wendy’s
Wendy’s is one of the best fast food options for carnivores because of its fresh, never-frozen beef and minimal use of hidden sugars.
Best Carnivore Options:
- Plain Beef Patty (Single, Double, or Triple): Skip the bun and ask for just the cooked beef patty. This gives you pure animal protein with no additives.
- 4 for $4 Meal (Modified): Order four plain beef patties. You’ll get 120–140g of protein for under $5.
- Baconator (no bun): Two 1/3-pound beef patties, six strips of bacon, cheese, and mayo—eaten without the bun. High fat and satisfying.
Pro Tip: Always ask for your patty “no salt, no pepper” if you’re avoiding any seasonings with anti-caking agents or sugar. Some carnivore dieters prefer unseasoned meat to minimize additives.
McDonald’s
While McDonald’s uses more processed ingredients than some chains, carnivores can still find suitable options.
Best Carnivore Options:
- McDouble (No Bun): Two beef patties, one slice of cheese, and two pickle slices. Remove the pickles if you want to avoid even trace plant matter, or keep them if you’re flexible. The beef patties are pure meat.
- Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese (No Bun): Larger patties mean higher fat content, especially if they’re cooked in beef tallow (not currently standard in the U.S., but available in some international locations).
- Bacon McDouble (No Bun): Add bacon for extra fat—a carnivore staple.
- Fried Chicken McNuggets (6 or 10 Piece): While the breading contains wheat and starch, some carnivore dieters do “carnivore-ish” versions that include minimal breaded meat. For a cleaner approach, skip these unless breading-free options become available.
Avoid: All sauces, ketchup, mustard, and sauces like Big Mac sauce, which contain sugar and soy. Stick to butter or plain animal fat if available.
Five Guys
Five Guys is a favorite among low-carb and carnivore eaters because of its high meat quality and customization options.
Best Carnivore Options:
- Cheap Trick (Single, Double, or Larger): A burger with no bun, cheese, and bacon. Ask to skip veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Add butter if desired.
- Grilled Cheese (Carnivore-Style): While it sounds plant-based, ask for cheese grilled between two beef patties instead of bread. It’s an excellent way to increase fat intake.
- Bacon (Extra): Order a side of bacon or add multiple strips to your burger.
Pro Tip: Five Guys grills their meat in peanut oil, which is a plant oil. If you strictly avoid all plant derivatives, you may want to reconsider eating here. However, many carnivore dieters tolerate this small exposure given the high meat quality.
In-N-Out Burger
In-N-Out is known for its simple, fresh ingredients, making it another top choice.
Best Carnivore Options:
- Protein Style Burger: This is In-N-Out’s famous lettuce-wrapped burger, but carnivores should skip the lettuce and just eat the beef patty, cheese, and optional Thousand Island dressing (check for sugar content). Request “no vegetables” to be safe.
- Double Meat (Animal Style, No Bun): Two beef patties, two slices of cheese, grilled onions (skip if avoiding all plants), and their secret sauce. For a carnivore-strict version, ask for “no onions, no sauce” and instead ask for extra cheese and maybe a side of butter.
- 4×4 or Larger Patties: The more patties, the more protein and fat you get. Ideal for carnivore fueling.
Bonus Option: Order Animal Style Fries, then scrape off the fries and eat only the melted cheese and grilled onions (if tolerated). Or skip them entirely for a pure meat approach.
Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A is unique for its focus on chicken, perfect for carnivores who enjoy poultry.
Best Carnivore Options:
- Grilled Chicken Nuggets (8 or 12 Count): These contain only chicken breast and seasoning (check the ingredients: no fillers, but they do use monosodium glutamate and dextrose—tiny sugar amounts). Some carnivore followers avoid them; others accept minimal dextrose as negligible.
- Grilled Chicken Filet (No Bun): Order the grilled chicken sandwich and eat only the chicken patty. The seasoning is minimal, mostly salt, and acceptable for many.
- Chick-fil-A Sauce (Optional Dip): High in sugar—avoid. Instead, bring your own butter or tallow to dip in.
Warning: Most Chick-fil-A fried chicken items are breaded with wheat flour and contain sugar. Avoid fried versions unless doing a more flexible carnivore-adjacent diet.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell is tricky due to heavy use of beans, rice, and sauces—but with modifications, carnivores can find options.
Carnivore-Friendly Choices:
- Naked Chicken Chips (Fresco Style): These are essentially breaded chicken nuggets served with cheese. Skip the “Fresco” part (which adds pico de gallo) and order them plain. You’ll still get breading, so strict carnivores will want to avoid.
- Beef (Protein) Box (Modified): Order the beef from burritos or tacos and discard the tortilla, rice, and beans. You can sometimes get seasoned ground beef as a side.
Bottom Line: Taco Bell is challenging for carnivores. Many menu items include corn, soy, and hidden sugars. Best avoided unless you’re doing a modified version.
KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken)
KFC specializes in fried chicken, which means breading is king—but they do offer some workarounds.
Possible Carnivore Options:
- Original Recipe Chicken (Eat Only the Skin and Meat): While breaded, you can pick off most of the crust and eat the juicy fried meat and crispy skin. The skin is high in fat, making it appealing for carnivores.
- Buffalo Wings (If Available): Some KFC locations offer wings with less breading. Confirm preparation method.
- Side of Gravy: KFC’s gravy is meat-based and high in fat—perfect for dipping or pouring over meat. Contains flour, so use sparingly if strictly carnivore.
Alternative: Look for grilled chicken options if available, but as of now, KFC primarily focuses on fried items with breading.
Whataburger
Whataburger offers thick burgers and customization, making it a solid carnivore choice.
Top Picks:
- Whataburger (No Bun): A classic beef patty with mustard, onions, pickles, and ketchup. Request “no condiments, no vegetables” and add extra cheese or bacon.
- A&W Double (No Bun): A double cheeseburger without the bun. Simple and satisfying.
- Bacon Burger (No Bun, Extra Meat): Add extra beef or bacon for higher fat content.
Whataburger’s meat is seasoned simply, and their buns can be easily omitted.
International and Specialty Options
If you’re outside the U.S. or visiting specialty chains, consider the following:
Shake Shack
Known for quality ingredients, Shake Shack offers:
- Single or Double ShackBurger (no bun)
- Smokeshack (bacon and shack sauce—avoid sauce or confirm ingredients)
- Chicken Sandwich (skip bun and breading if possible)
Ask if they use plant oils for grilling.
Chipotle (Meat Only Mode)
While known for plant-heavy bowls, Chipotle can work:
- Double Meat, No Rice, No Beans, No Salsa: Order a bowl with double chicken, steak, or carnitas, plus cheese and sour cream. Skip tortillas, lettuce, and guacamole if avoiding all plant matter.
- Queso (Check Ingredients): Some versions contain fillers. Stick to cheese or sour cream for fat.
Note: Seasonings may contain sugar or anti-caking agents. Use with caution.
Hidden Carbs and Additives to Watch For
Even if a food seems meat-based, many fast food chains use hidden ingredients that can break carnivore compliance. Be vigilant about:
Breading and Fillers
Breadcrumbs, flour, and wheat are common in nuggets, fried items, and even burger patties (as binders). Always ask: “Is there any filler in the meat?”
Seasonings and Marinades
Many seasonings contain:
- Garlic powder or onion powder (plant derivatives)
- Dextrose or maltodextrin (sugar derivatives)
- Soy or corn derivatives
Plain grilled meat with only salt is safest.
Cooking Mediums
Some restaurants cook meat in vegetable oils like canola or soybean. These are plant-based and avoided by strict carnivores. Ideal cooking fats include tallow, lard, butter, or coconut oil (animal fat).
Sauces and Condiments
Ketchup, BBQ sauce, mayonnaise, and dressings are loaded with sugar, preservatives, and plant oils. Avoid entirely or bring your own animal-based alternatives.
Tips for Ordering Carnivore Fast Food Successfully
Navigating fast food on a carnivore diet doesn’t have to be stressful. Use these strategies to stay on track:
Call Ahead or Check Menus Online
Many chains list ingredients online. Research before you go to avoid surprises.
Use Customization Apps or Websites
Apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash let you add special instructions: “No bun, no vegetables, no sauce.”
Bring Your Own Fat
Pack a small container of beef tallow, butter, or lard to enhance meals and increase calorie and fat intake.
Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask restaurant staff:
- “Is there any sugar in the seasoning?”
- “Are the patties made with 100% beef?”
- “Is the meat grilled in butter or oil?”
Being proactive ensures your meal aligns with carnivore standards.
The Importance of Fat on Carnivore
A carnivore diet isn’t just about protein—it’s about fat. Animal fat provides concentrated energy, helps with satiety, and supports hormone production.
Without adequate fat, you may experience fatigue, brain fog, and cravings. That’s why carnivore fast food choices should prioritize high-fat meats like:
- Ribeye steak
- Bacon
- Ground beef (80/20 or fattier)
- Skin-on chicken
- Cheese and butter (if tolerated)
If a meal is too lean, consider adding:
- Extra bacon
- Melted cheese
- A side of butter or tallow
- Animal fat-based sauces like béarnaise (if available)
Staying Committed: Long-Term Carnivore and Fast Food
While homemade carnivore meals are ideal, fast food is a helpful backup. It prevents you from breaking your diet during busy days or travel.
Mindset matters: View fast food not as a cheat, but as a flexible tool within a larger dietary framework. The goal is sustainability—not perfection.
Balancing Convenience and Purity
Be honest with yourself about your carnivore goals:
- Strict Carnivore: Only meat, eggs, water, salt. Avoid chains with breading, oils, or additives.
- Carnivore-ish or Animal-Based: Include some dairy, minimal seasonings, or trace plant exposure for convenience.
Choose accordingly. Many people start strict and loosen slightly over time.
Conclusion: Fast Food Can Fit the Carnivore Lifestyle
The carnivore diet doesn’t have to mean giving up fast food for good. With careful ordering, customization, and awareness of hidden ingredients, you can enjoy satisfying, animal-based meals at many popular chains.
Wendy’s, McDonald’s, Five Guys, In-N-Out, and Chick-fil-A offer the most viable options, especially when you ditch the bun, avoid sauces, and prioritize fatty cuts of meat. By planning ahead and being assertive about your needs, you can stay carnivore-compliant even in the most modern food environments.
Remember: Diet sustainability is key. A rigid approach may work short-term, but flexibility—especially around fast food—helps long-term adherence. Embrace the carnivore mindset: eat animals, stay healthy, and don’t stress over minor imperfections.
Now you’re equipped to walk into any fast food joint and order like a carnivore pro. Stay focused, eat meat, and thrive.
What is the carnivore diet, and how does it apply to fast food choices?
The carnivore diet is an eating plan that focuses exclusively on animal-based foods, eliminating all plant-based products such as fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and most carbohydrates. Followers of this diet typically consume meat, fish, eggs, and certain animal fats, while avoiding foods with fiber, sugars, and carbohydrates. The goal is to maintain a state of fat adaptation and potentially improve digestion, energy levels, and mental clarity by removing plant compounds that some individuals may have sensitivities to.
When applying the carnivore diet to fast food, the focus shifts toward identifying menu items made primarily or entirely from animal products. This means selecting foods with simple, recognizable ingredients—such as beef, chicken, pork, cheese, and eggs—while avoiding buns, sauces with sugar or soy, and any hidden plant-based additives. While convenient, most conventional fast food is loaded with carbohydrates and processed ingredients, so carnivore dieters must make careful, informed choices or modify standard menu items to stay compliant.
Can you eat burgers on the carnivore diet when dining at fast food restaurants?
Yes, you can eat burgers on the carnivore diet, but only if you make specific modifications. Most fast food burgers are served on buns, which contain grains and are not allowed on the carnivore diet. To stay compliant, request the burger “lettuce-wrapped” or simply “no bun” to eliminate the carb-heavy bread. Additionally, stick to basic burgers without sauces, as many condiments contain sugar, preservatives, or vegetable oils.
It’s also important to choose single or double beef patties without fillers, and avoid toppings like onions, pickles, or ketchup, which are plant-based. Cheese can be included if you tolerate dairy; otherwise, skip it. Many chains like McDonald’s, Burger King, and In-N-Out offer straightforward beef patties that, when customized correctly, can fit into a carnivore lifestyle. By focusing on pure animal products, a fast-food burger can become a convenient carnivore meal.
Are grilled chicken sandwiches acceptable on a carnivore diet?
Grilled chicken sandwiches at fast food restaurants are not inherently carnivore-compliant because they come on buns and often include plant-based sauces or toppings. However, the grilled chicken patty itself is typically composed of chicken meat and seasonings, which can be acceptable depending on the ingredients. You must check for added sugars, starches, or vegetable-based oils in the marinade or seasoning.
To make a grilled chicken sandwich carnivore-friendly, order the chicken patty without the bun and skip the sauce and toppings like lettuce, tomato, or mayo if it contains vegetable oil. Eat the grilled chicken as is, or pair it with a side of bacon or cheese if available. Chains like Chick-fil-A or Wendy’s offer grilled chicken options that can be adapted with strict customization, making them a viable fast food choice for those following a carnivore diet when modified properly.
Can you eat bacon and eggs at fast food breakfast spots while on carnivore?
Yes, bacon and eggs from fast food breakfast menus are among the most carnivore-friendly options available. Items like scrambled eggs, fried eggs, or egg whites contain no carbohydrates and are composed entirely of animal products. Similarly, bacon—especially center-cut or thick-cut varieties—is typically cured meat with no plant-based fillers, though it’s important to check that it doesn’t contain added sugars or preservatives.
Many major chains such as McDonald’s, Starbucks (via partnerships), and Burger King offer breakfast plates or sandwiches that feature eggs and bacon. To stay on track, order these items without biscuits, muffins, or hash browns. Avoid sauces like ketchup or syrup and steer clear of breakfast sandwiches served on English muffins or croissants. You can also ask for extra bacon and skip seasoning if artificial additives are a concern, creating a satisfying carnivore breakfast on the go.
What fast food sides can you eat on the carnivore diet?
Most fast food sides contain carbohydrates and are not suitable for carnivore dieters. Items like fries, onion rings, and salads are off-limits because they are plant-based. However, a few animal-derived sides may be acceptable with careful selection. Cheese sticks, bacon, and occasionally grilled chicken tenders (without breading or sauce) can be carnivore-compliant if they consist purely of meat or dairy.
Some restaurants like Chick-fil-A offer grilled chicken nuggets in a sauce-free option, and certain locations of In-N-Out or Whataburger may let you order extra animal-based toppings like melted cheese or chopped onions—though you’d skip the onions. While choices are limited, requesting “protein-only” sides or custom modifications can yield carnivore-friendly options. In most cases, though, it’s easier to focus on the main entree and avoid sides altogether, or supplement with portable carnivore snacks like jerky or hard-boiled eggs.
Is dairy allowed on the carnivore diet, and what fast food cheese options are acceptable?
Dairy is allowed on the carnivore diet for many followers, though some choose to exclude it initially during an elimination phase to assess tolerance. Cheese, butter, and heavy cream are common additions for those who include dairy because they are high in fat and low in lactose. However, individual sensitivities vary, so it’s important to monitor how your body responds to dairy products consumed outside the home.
Fast food restaurants frequently use processed cheese slices that may contain emulsifiers, preservatives, or milk solids. While these are still animal-based, purists on the carnivore diet may prefer to avoid them. However, for most people, standard cheese slices on burgers or in breakfast items are acceptable. If you’re strictly carnivore, opt for options with minimal additives and avoid creamy sauces like ranch or aioli that contain vegetable oils. When in doubt, skip the cheese or supplement with higher-quality animal fats.
How can you maintain carnivore compliance when eating out at fast food chains?
Maintaining carnivore compliance at fast food chains requires careful menu scrutiny and specific ordering instructions. Always check ingredient lists online or via the restaurant’s nutrition guide to identify hidden sugars, starches, and vegetable oils. Stick to whole meat items like bunless burgers, grilled chicken, or bacon, and avoid anything breaded, sauced, or seasoned with non-animal ingredients.
Clear communication with staff is essential. Use simple, direct requests such as “no bun, no sauce, no toppings” or “double meat, animal-only.” Focus on customization options—chains like In-N-Out or Five Guys are known for accommodating build-your-own orders, which simplifies compliance. Packing carnivore-friendly snacks as backups adds extra security for times when suitable options aren’t available, ensuring you stay on track without compromising your dietary goals.