The landscape of American fast food is looking up. Dotted across the country at roadside exits and on bustling city street corners the classic grub-on-the-go is getting a mighty makeover. Here are a few drive-thrus we’re digging –

Burgerville – Fresh. Local. Sustainable.

You can't help but appreciate that this pacific-northwest chain aims to “serve with love.” Plus, Burgerville has partnered with local farmers and producers to source their ingredients in an environmentally responsible way that results in fresh, seasonal food.

A local-centric menu sticks to mainly to the classics, but has a few items that caught our eye, including the Tillamook cheeseburger, north pacific halibut fish sandwich, wild smoked salmon and hazelnut salad, Yukon Gold waffle fries, Walla Walla sweet onion rings, and Oregon hazelnut milkshakes made with real ice cream. Also, for vegetarians the tasty Rogue River smoky blue cheese salad is sure to hit the spot.

Where? Many locations throughout Oregon and Washington.

Zen Burger — Good for You. Good for the Planet.

For busy Manhattanites, a quick stop at Zen Burger means filling up on “wholesome natural vegetarian foods that have the look, feel, texture, and taste of meats.” They stuff their buns with faux-beef, -chicken and -tuna, all made without any animal products and for $1 more you can add organic American cheese. You’ll find the usual breakfast egg sandwich, French fries, and milkshakes all with an organic twist. Organic soup, chili, and salads are followed up with warm whole-wheat chocolate chip, granola, or peanut butter cookies. We also love that 90% of their take-out containers are biodegradable and/or compostable and that the store is built from mostly recycled materials with energy-saving lights.

Where? 465 Lexington Avenue. New York, NY 10017

(World’s Most) Local Burger

Lawrence, Kansas is home to Local Burger, a healthy fast-food restaurant that Bon Appetit named one of the top ten eco-friendly restaurants in the country. They cater to everyone from the committed carnivore to the vigilant vegetarian and even those needing gluten-free options. With a selection of both updated classics and innovative dishes they have a sparkling fresh take on what it means to eat on the run. Passionately dedicated to sourcing their foods locally, organically, and sustainably, care is taken in every dish, like the grass-fed beef, elk, or house made veggie burgers. Sides include the “progressive potato” fries, quinoa-millet pilaf, and the hijiki studded “We’re Not in Kansas Anymore" salad. Shakes have been replaced with refreshing smoothies and for a sweet ending you’ll find honey-peanut butter balls and allergy-friendly brownies. We also love that a local library card gets you 10% off on Saturdays.

Where? 714 Vermont Street. Lawrence, Kansas 66044

Still hungry? Check out the many other quick bites that caught our eye –

VG Burgers
Mixt Greens
O’Naturals
Lettuce Eatery
Pizza Fusion
Organic To Go
Pret a Manger
Chix
Native Foods
Veggie Bite

Comments (2) | March 20 - 8:26 PM

category: Lists, Menus, Studies + Trends