21 Best Keto Fast Food Options for Eating Low-Carb Meals

Eating fast food on a keto diet can be challenging, but it is not impossible if you already know what to order. This comprehensive article will tackle 21 popular keto fast-food restaurants and give examples of what you can order from each.

Best Keto Fast Food Restaurants

Tips for Eating Keto Fast Food

  • Plan Ahead: Before heading to a fast-food restaurant, check their menu online to identify keto-friendly options. Planning can prevent impulsive decisions that may not align with your diet.
  • Skip the Bun or Wrap: Most fast food chains offer burgers or sandwiches. Opt to remove or replace these with lettuce wraps or enjoy the insides on their own.
  • Be Cautious with Sides: Skip high-carb sides like fries and opt for lower-carb alternatives like side salads or non-starchy vegetables.
  • Watch Out for Hidden Carbs: Some seemingly harmless toppings, sauces, or condiments may contain hidden sugars or carbs. Be cautious with ketchup, BBQ sauce, and other sweet dressings.
  • Practice Portion Control: Even though certain items may be keto-friendly, it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes to stay within your daily keto macros.
  • Get Unsweetened Beverages: Skip the milkshakes and order unsweetened coffee or tea instead.

Best Keto Fast Food Options

best keto fast food options

1. Five Guys

Five Guys is renowned for its fresh, high-quality ingredients. Known for their customizable burgers, hot dogs, and fries, Five Guys offers keto-friendly fast food options with delicious protein choices. For keto followers, always skip the bun when ordering.

Try the following: 

  • Hamburger (skip the bun): 0 grams carbs, 36 grams protein, 34 grams fat
  • Bacon Burger (skip the bun): 0 grams carbs, 40 grams protein, 41 grams fat
  • Bacon Cheeseburger (skip the bun): 2 grams carbs, 48 grams protein, 53 grams fat
  • Cheese Dog (skip the bun): 3 grams carbs, 15 grams protein, 26 grams fat
  • Bacon Cheese Dog (skip the bun): 3 grams carbs, 19 grams protein, 33 grams fat

2. In-N-Out Burger

A West Coast favorite, In-N-Out Burger is famous for its simple yet iconic menu. Opt for protein-style burgers wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun to enjoy a low-carb twist on their classic offerings.

Try the following: 

  • Hamburger with Onion, protein style (bun replaced with lettuce): 8 grams carbs, 13 grams protein, 17 grams fat
  • Cheeseburger with Onion, protein style (bun replaced with lettuce): 8 grams carbs, 18 grams protein, 25 grams fat
  • Double-Double with Onion, protein style (bun replaced with lettuce): 8 grams carbs, 33 grams protein, 39 grams fat
  • Unsweetened Coffee: 0 grams carbs, 0 grams protein, 0 grams fat

3. Subway

Subway, the world’s largest submarine sandwich chain, provides keto enthusiasts with a range of salad options. Customize your salad with protein-packed ingredients and remove the dressing, making it a satisfying and low-carb alternative.

Try the following: 

  • Black Forest Ham Protein Bowl (no dressing): 9 grams net carbs, 21 grams protein, 4.5 grams fat
  • Italian B.M.T. Protein Bowl (no dressing): 10 grams net carbs, 25 grams protein, 29 grams fat
  • Tuna Protein Bowl (no dressing): 5 grams net carbs, 26 grams protein, 47 grams fat
  • Steak And Cheese Salad: 12  grams carbs, 20  grams protein, 8  grams fat

4. Taco Bell

Taco Bell, known for its Mexican-inspired menu, such as tacos, burritos, nachos, and quesadillas, can be keto-friendly with strategic choices. Skip the carb-heavy shells, tortilla, and rice, and pick protein-packed bowls and salads.

Try the following: 

  • Power Menu Bowl – Chicken (no rice or beans): 7 grams carbs, 33 grams protein, 14 grams fat
  • Power Menu Bowl – Steak (no rice or beans): 7 grams carbs, 32 grams protein, 18 grams fat
  • Steak Quesadilla (no tortilla): 5 grams carbs, 21 grams protein, 22 grams fat
  • Mini Skillet Bowl (skip the potatoes): 6 grams carbs, 14 grams protein, 46 grams fat

5. Chipotle

Chipotle is a leading Mexican restaurant offering a build-your-own bowl concept. Loading protein, veggies, and cheese while skipping the rice and beans creates a flavorful and satisfying low-carb meal.

Try the following: 

  • Keto Salad Bowl: 7 grams carbs, 32 grams protein, 42 grams fat
  • Grain Freedom Bowl:  9 grams carbs, 40 grams protein, 24 grams fat
  • Steak, 4 oz:  0 grams carbs, 21 grams protein, 6 grams fat
  • Guacamole:  2 grams carbs, 2 grams protein, 22 grams fat
  • Unsweetened iced tea: 0 grams carbs, 0 grams protein, 0 grams fat

6. Burger King

At Burger King, customizing your order is key to a keto-friendly experience. Opt for bunless burgers, grilled chicken options, and salads, allowing you to enjoy the flame-grilled taste without the carbs.

Try the following: 

  • Sausage Egg & Cheese Croissan’Wich (skip the croissant): 3 grams carbs, 15 grams protein, 26 grams fat
  • Whopper with cheese (without bun): 1 gram of carbs, 24 grams protein, 24 grams fat
  • Bacon King (without bun): 6 grams carbs, 50 grams protein, 65 grams fat
  • Chicken Nuggets, 4 pieces: 10.4 grams carbs, 9.2 grams protein, 12.3 grams fat
  • Plain Cold Brew Coffee: 0 grams carbs, 0 grams protein, 0 grams fat

7. McDonald’s

You can enjoy low-carb options at McDonald’s by going bunless and avoiding high-carb sides. Fries, high-calorie drinks, and their sauces often contain high carbs. 

Try the following: 

  • Sausage McMuffin with Egg Breakfast Sandwich (no English muffin): 3 grams carbs, 15 grams protein, 27 grams fat
  • Big Mac (without bun): 7 grams carbs, 18 grams protein, 25 grams fat
  • Double Cheeseburger (without bun and ketchup): 4 grams carbs, 20 grams protein, 20 grams fat

8. KFC

While KFC is famous for its fried chicken, keto-friendly options include grilled chicken and green beans.

Try the following: 

  • Grilled Chicken Breast: 0 grams carbs, 38 grams protein, 7 grams fat
  • 2-Piece Chicken Combo: 2 grams carbs, 47 grams protein, 10 grams fat
  • Green Beans: 2 grams carbs, 1 grams protein, 0 grams fat
  • Unsweetened Iced Tea: 1 grams carbs, 0 grams protein, 0 grams fat

9. Dunkin’ Donuts

Dunkin’ Donuts is famous for its drinks and donuts, but there are low-carb options you can try. Donuts and their sweet drinks are obviously out of the options. 

Try the following: 

  • Sausage, Egg & Cheese (No bread): 3 grams carbs, 17 grams protein, 25.5 grams fat
  • Bacon, Egg, & Cheese (No bread): 3  grams carbs, 13  grams protein, 17  grams fat
  • Classic Americano (Medium): 2 grams carbs, 1 grams protein, 0 grams fats
  • Coconut Milk Macchiato (Medium): 3 grams carbs, 0  grams protein, 3  grams fats

10. Starbucks

Starbucks is known for its sweet and high-caloric beverages and sides, but you can still get low-carb options by being mindful of the additions you order in your drinks. 

Try the following: 

  • Pink Drink (No classic syrup, with heavy cream and sugar-free vanilla): 4.5 grams net carbs, protein and fat content depending on variation
  • Chai Tea (From tea bag, not chai syrup): 3.7 grams net carbs, protein and fat content depending on variation
  • Sopressata salami and Monterey Jack: 0 grams carbs, 15  grams protein, 17  grams fat
  • Cheddar Moon Cheese: 1 gram carbs, 1 gram protein, 5 grams fat

11. Sonic Drive-In

Sonic Drive-In offers keto-friendly options such as bunless burgers, breakfast burritos without the tortilla, and grilled chicken sandwiches with correct customization. 

Try the following: 

  • Breakfast Burrito Bowl (skip the tortilla): 5 grams carbs, 23 grams protein, 25 grams fat
  • Crispy Bacon Breakfast Bowl: 4 grams carbs, 20 grams protein, 25 grams fat
  • Grilled Chicken Sandwich (skip the bun, keep the mayo): 4 grams carbs, 21 grams protein, 13.2 grams fat
  • New York Hotdo grams (skip the bun): 9 grams carbs, 9 grams protein, 20.5 grams fat

12. Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut might not be the first choice for keto, but there are alternatives. Opt for salads without croutons or choose wings with dry rubs. Be mindful of the sauces, though.

Try the following: 

  • Buffalo Burnin’ Hot Bone-Out Wings: 0 grams carbs, 18 grams protein, 14 grams fat (per 8 wings)
  • Lemon Pepper Dry Rub Wings (Per piece): Less than 1 gram of carbs, 9 grams protein, 4.5 grams fat
  • Chicken Garden Salad: 4 grams carbs, 32 grams protein, 19 grams fat
  • Zesty Italian Salad (skip the croutons and dressing): 9 grams carbs, 15 grams protein, 19 grams fat
  • Garden Salad (skip the croutons and dressing): 8 grams carbs, 3 grams protein, 1 grams fat

13. Domino’s

Domino’s doesn’t offer many food options, making a low-carb diet challenging. However, the best bet you have is their chicken wings and salad.

Try the following: 

  • Plain Chicken Wings: 5 grams carbs, 34 grams protein, 26 grams fat (per 8 wings)
  • Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad: 5 grams carbs, 19 grams protein, 7 grams fat
  • Deluxe pizza, thin crust: 12.7 grams net carbs, 9.8 grams protein, 11.4 grams fat

14. Papa John’s

Like most pizza chains, Papa John’s doesn’t offer a keto pizza, but you can opt for their chicken menu and garden salad for a low-carb dining experience. 

Try the following: 

  • Chicken Wings (No sauce): 0 grams carbs, 25 grams protein, 18 grams fat (per 8 wings)
  • Seasoned Grilled Chicken Breast: 0 grams carbs, 27 grams protein, 9 grams fat
  • Chicken Alfredo Bowl: 15 grams carbs, 62 grams protein, 31 grams fat
  • Garden Fresh Salad (skip the croutons and dressing): 7 grams carbs, 5 grams protein, 19 grams fat

15. Chili’s

Chili’s, famous for its Tex-Mex dishes, provides keto-friendly options by skipping tortillas. Choose from grilled options and salads for a satisfying and flavorful low-carb meal.

Try the following: 

  • Classic Sirloin: 2 gram carbs, 55 grams protein, 19 grams fat
  • Bone-in Buffalo Wings: 2 grams net carbs, 73 grams protein, 65 grams fat
  • Fajitas: 4 grams carbs, 29 grams protein, 34 grams fat
  • Fresco Salad: 6 grams carbs, 3 grams protein, 10 grams fat

16. Panda Express

Panda Express is a famous Chinese fast-food restaurant offering fresh and nutrient-dense foods. Their nutrition feature for each menu item makes it easier to track your nutrients while dining.

Try the following: 

  • String Bean Chicken Breast: 10.8 grams net carbs, 14.5 grams protein, 9 grams fat
  • Black Pepper Angus Steak: 9 grams net carbs, 19 grams protein, 7 grams fat
  • Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: 7.9 grams net carbs, 36.1 grams protein, 12.8 grams fat
  • Broccoli Beef: 11 grams carbs, 9 grams protein, 7 grams fat

17. Popeyes

Popeye’s is famous for its flavorful chicken. They have a variety of menus, including chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, and sides. While most of their items are high in carbs, you still have some low-carb options.

Try the following: 

  • Blackened Chicken Tenders (3-piece): 2 grams carbs, 26 grams protein, 2 grams fat
  • Green Beans and Bacon: 4 grams net carbs, 2 grams protein, 2 grams fat
  • Coleslaw: 11 grams net carbs, 1 grams protein, 10 grams fat

18. Chick-Fil-A

Chick-fil-A offers a wide variety of breakfast menus, salads, entrées, and sides. Order bunless sandwiches and avoid their milkshakes for a low-carb experience. 

Try the following: 

  • Grilled Chicken Sandwich (no bun): 2 grams carbs, 24 grams protein, 1.5 grams fat
  • Grilled Nuggets: 0 grams carbs, 21 grams protein, 2.5 grams fat
  • Cobb Salad with Grilled Chicken: 10 grams carbs, 36 grams protein, 10 grams fat
  • Kale Crunch Side: 7 grams carbs, 3 grams protein, 9 grams fat 
  • Small Fruit Cup: 11 grams carbs, 1 grams protein, 0 grams fat
  • Coffee, made from arabica beans: 0 grams carbs, 0 grams protein, 0 grams fat
  • Freshly-brewed Unsweetened Iced Tea: 0 grams carbs, 0 grams protein, 0 grams fat

19. Carl’s Jr

Carl’s Jr is famous for its breakfast and snack options, but they have lettuce wrap alternatives. They are a more keto-friendly fast food restaurant as they offer a “low-carb style” on their menus, just notify the kitchen with your request. 

Try the following: 

  • Guacamole Bacon Thickburger Lettuce Wrap: 5 grams carbs, 40 grams protein, 63  grams fat
  • The Monster Biscuit (No bun): 4 grams carbs, 29 grams protein, 48  grams fat
  • Classic Double Cheeseburger Lettuce Wrap: 11 grams carbs, 18 grams protein, 37 grams fat
  • Famous Star Lettuce Wrap: 10 grams carbs, 21 grams protein, 34 grams fat
  • Low Carb Charbroiled Chicken Club: 13 grams carbs, 24 grams protein, 22 grams fat

20. Panera Bread

Although the name implies high-carb food, Panera Bread offers customizable items to fit a low-carb diet. You can enjoy their salads and order a no-sugar cup of coffee for the whole experience. 

Try the following: 

  • Avocado, Egg White, & Spinach (no bagel): 2 grams carbs, 13 grams protein, 11  grams fat
  • Sausage, Scrambled Egg, & Cheese (no ciabatta): 3 grams carbs, 23 grams protein, 27 grams fat
  • Heritage Ham & Swiss (no bread): 3 grams carbs, 32  grams protein, 30 grams fat
  • Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt (no bread): 7 grams carbs, 29 grams protein, 37 grams fat
  • Caesar Salad (no croutons): 7 grams carbs, 32 grams protein, 26 grams fat
  • Greek Salad (no modifications needed): 11 grams carbs, 6 grams protein, 36 grams fat

21. Wendy’s

Wendy’s boasts pure beef patties with no fillers or hidden carbs. Just order the sandwiches bunless and you don’t need to worry about hidden carbs. 

Try the following: 

  • Baconator (no bun): 6 grams carbs, 52 grams protein, 57 grams fat
  • The Grilled Chicken Sandwich (no honey mustard): 1 gram carb, 29 grams protein, 2 grams fat
  • Double Stack (no bun): 2 grams carbs, 20 grams protein, 19 grams fat
  • The Parmesan Caesar Chicken Salad (Grilled Chicken): 4 grams net carbs, 42 grams protein, 28 grams fat 
  • Unsweetened Ice Tea and Coffee: 0-2  grams carbs

Summary and FAQ

Ordering fast food on a keto diet is doable by being extra careful and prepared before ordering. You can enjoy socializing with friends without compromising your diet by doing proper research and directly asking for low-carb options.

Can I eat fast food on keto?

Yes, eating fast food on keto is possible as long as you choose the right menu items. 

Can I eat KFC on keto?

Yes, KFC has some keto-friendly options, like their grilled chicken and chicken combo. However, you can’t customize their menu to be low-carb, so careful consideration is needed. 

What fast food has the least amount of carbs?

The amount of carbs depends on the specific menu item, but Chili’s, Chick-fil-A, Carl’s Jr, and Chipotle have low-carb options that don’t need replacements or bun removal.

Is Coke Zero good for keto?

Coke Zero does not contain any sugar and will not kick you out of ketosis, but it contains artificial substances and is not allowed in Clean Keto.

What junk foods are keto?

There are keto chips, beef jerky, pork rinds, and cheese crisps that you can try while on keto.

Mag. Stephan Lederer, MSc. is an author and blogger from Austria who writes in-depth content about health and nutrition. His book series on Interval Fasting landed #1 on the bestseller list in the German Amazon marketplace in 15 categories.

Stephan is a true man of science, having earned multiple diplomas and master's degrees in various fields. He has made it his mission to bridge the gap between conventional wisdom and scientific knowledge. He precisely reviews the content and sources of this blog for currency and accuracy.

Click on the links above to visit his author and about me pages.

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