40 Best Keto-Friendly Restaurants for Low-Carb Diners in 2023
Where can you find delicious keto-friendly meals when dining out. What are the top restaurant chains offering low-carb options for keto dieters. How to navigate menus and make keto-compliant choices at popular eateries.
Starbucks: Keto-Friendly Breakfast On-the-Go
For those following a ketogenic diet, finding suitable options when dining out can be challenging. Fortunately, many popular restaurant chains now offer keto-friendly menu items. Starbucks, a ubiquitous coffee shop, provides a quick and convenient breakfast option that aligns with keto principles.
Their Bacon and Gruyere Sous Vide Egg Bites are an excellent choice for keto dieters. These protein-packed bites contain:
- 300 calories
- 20g fat (12g saturated fat)
- 9g carbs
- 19g protein
With only 9g of carbohydrates, these egg bites fit comfortably within most keto dieters’ daily carb limits. The high fat and protein content helps promote satiety, making them an ideal grab-and-go breakfast option.
IHOP: Customizable Keto-Friendly Breakfast Options
IHOP, known for its extensive breakfast menu, offers several keto-friendly choices. One standout option is the Avocado, Bacon, and Cheese Omelette. This indulgent yet low-carb meal provides:
- 880 calories
- 67g fat (26g saturated fat)
- 14g carbs
- 57g protein
The combination of healthy fats from avocado, protein from eggs and bacon, and minimal carbs makes this omelette an excellent choice for keto dieters. To further reduce carbs, consider asking for no toast or hash browns on the side.
California Pizza Kitchen: Salads That Satisfy Keto Cravings
While pizza may be off-limits for keto dieters, California Pizza Kitchen offers alternatives that fit the bill. The California Cobb Salad is a prime example of a keto-friendly option:
- 480 calories
- 37g fat (8g saturated fat)
- 11g carbs (5g fiber)
- 26g protein
Packed with avocado, chicken, eggs, and Gorgonzola cheese, this salad provides ample healthy fats and protein while keeping carbs low. The high fiber content (5g) also helps to promote digestive health and satiety.
Bahama Breeze: Caribbean-Inspired Keto Dining
For those craving Caribbean flavors while adhering to a keto diet, Bahama Breeze offers some enticing options. A combination of Jamaican Chicken Wings and Bahamian Seafood Chowder creates a satisfying, low-carb meal:
Jamaican Chicken Wings
- 780 calories
- 53g fat (16g saturated fat)
- 9g carbs
- 66g protein
Bahamian Seafood Chowder
- 230 calories
- 21g fat (13g saturated fat)
- 7g carbs
- 5g protein
Together, these dishes provide a flavorful, high-fat, high-protein meal with only 16g of carbs, making it an excellent choice for keto dieters seeking variety in their dining experiences.
Pret a Manger: Quick and Convenient Keto Lunch Options
For those on-the-go, Pret a Manger offers several keto-friendly options. The Chipotle Chicken Salad stands out as a particularly suitable choice:
- 260 calories
- 14g fat (7g saturated fat)
- 6g carbs (3g fiber)
- 29g protein
This salad combines grilled chicken, avocado, and a tangy chipotle dressing, providing a balance of protein and healthy fats. With only 6g of carbs (3g of which is fiber), it’s an ideal option for maintaining ketosis while enjoying a quick lunch.
True Food Kitchen: Innovative Keto-Friendly Comfort Food
True Food Kitchen takes the guesswork out of keto dining by offering a dedicated keto-friendly menu section. One standout dish is the Cauliflower Polenta with Chicken:
- 510 calories
- 31g fat (4.5g saturated fat)
- 28g carbs (7g fiber)
- 36g protein
This innovative dish uses riced cauliflower mixed with turmeric, cashew butter, and garlic paste to create a comforting, flavorful base for the chicken. While the carb count is higher than some other options, the 7g of fiber helps to offset the impact on blood sugar levels.
Denny’s: Classic American Dining with a Keto Twist
Denny’s, a staple of American casual dining, offers several keto-friendly options. The Garlic Peppercorn Sirloin with non-starchy vegetables is an excellent choice:
- 525 calories
- 40g fat (11g saturated fat)
- 11g carbs (4g fiber)
- 47g protein
This dish provides a substantial serving of protein and healthy fats, with only 7g of net carbs. The inclusion of broccoli and zucchini ensures you’re getting essential nutrients and fiber while keeping carb intake low.
P.F. Chang’s: Asian-Inspired Keto Dining
While many Asian dishes are typically high in carbs, P.F. Chang’s offers some keto-friendly alternatives. The Asian Caesar Salad with Salmon is a prime example:
- 650 calories
- 46g fat (10g saturated fat)
- 20g carbs (4g fiber)
- 37g protein
This salad provides a generous serving of healthy fats from salmon and a Caesar dressing, along with ample protein. While the carb count is higher than some other options, the 4g of fiber helps to mitigate the impact on blood sugar levels.
Buffalo Wild Wings: Keto-Friendly Game Day Eats
For those looking to enjoy traditional game day fare while sticking to a keto diet, Buffalo Wild Wings offers a suitable option. A six-count of Traditional Wings with Dry Buffalo Seasoning provides:
- 435 calories
- 24g fat (8g saturated fat)
- 1g carbs
- 53g protein
With only 1g of carbs, these wings are an excellent choice for keto dieters. The high protein content makes them filling, while the dry seasoning avoids the added sugars often found in wing sauces.
Arby’s: Beyond the Bun for Keto Diners
While Arby’s is known for its sandwiches, they also offer keto-friendly options. The Roast Chicken Salad is a standout choice:
- 250 calories
- 14g fat (7g saturated fat)
- 8g carbs (3g fiber)
- 25g protein
Topped with pepper bacon and cheddar cheese, this salad provides a good balance of protein and fats while keeping carbs low. The 3g of fiber helps to further reduce the net carb count, making it an excellent option for keto dieters.
Boston Market: Rotisserie Goodness for Keto Enthusiasts
Boston Market offers several options suitable for a ketogenic diet. The Rotisserie Prime Rib with a side of Steamed Vegetables is particularly keto-friendly:
- 690 calories
- 50.5g fat (12g saturated fat)
- 7g carbs (4g fiber)
- 57g protein
This meal provides a substantial serving of protein and healthy fats, with only 3g of net carbs. The inclusion of steamed vegetables ensures you’re getting essential nutrients and fiber while maintaining ketosis.
Seasons 52: Fresh, Seasonal Keto Dining
Seasons 52 offers several options that can be easily adapted to fit a keto diet. A combination of their Grilled Shrimp and Avocado appetizer and the Steak Salad creates a well-rounded, keto-friendly meal:
Grilled Shrimp and Avocado
- 220 calories
- 12g fat
Steak Salad
- Varies based on preparation
- Olive oil-based dressing
This combination provides a good balance of protein from the shrimp and steak, healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil dressing, and low-carb vegetables from the salad. Be sure to ask for the salad without any high-carb toppings to keep it keto-friendly.
As the keto diet continues to gain popularity, more restaurants are adapting their menus to accommodate low-carb diners. These 12 restaurants represent just a fraction of the keto-friendly options available in 2023. When dining out on a ketogenic diet, remember to focus on high-fat, moderate-protein options while minimizing carbohydrate intake. Don’t be afraid to ask for modifications or substitutions to make dishes more keto-compliant. With a little knowledge and preparation, maintaining a ketogenic diet while enjoying restaurant meals is entirely achievable.
Is it possible to enjoy a varied and flavorful diet while adhering to ketogenic principles? As evidenced by the diverse array of options available at these popular restaurant chains, the answer is a resounding yes. From quick breakfast options at Starbucks to indulgent steaks at Seasons 52, keto dieters have more choices than ever when dining out.
Does following a ketogenic diet mean sacrificing taste or variety when eating at restaurants? Not at all. As we’ve seen, many restaurants now offer delicious, satisfying meals that align with keto principles. Whether you’re in the mood for Asian-inspired cuisine, classic American fare, or Caribbean flavors, there’s likely a keto-friendly option available.
Can you maintain ketosis while enjoying social dining experiences? Absolutely. With the right knowledge and choices, dining out can be a enjoyable part of a ketogenic lifestyle. By focusing on high-fat, moderate-protein options and being mindful of hidden carbs, you can stay on track with your diet goals while still participating in social dining experiences.
As the ketogenic diet continues to gain popularity, we can expect even more restaurants to expand their low-carb offerings. This trend not only benefits those following a strict keto diet but also provides more options for anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake. Whether you’re a long-time keto enthusiast or just starting to explore low-carb dining options, the restaurant landscape in 2023 offers more choices than ever before.
Remember, while these restaurant options can fit into a ketogenic diet, it’s always important to consider your individual nutritional needs and goals. What works for one person may not be ideal for another. Always consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.
As we’ve explored these keto-friendly restaurant options, it’s clear that with a little knowledge and preparation, maintaining a ketogenic diet while dining out is not only possible but can be enjoyable and diverse. From quick breakfast options to leisurely dinners, there’s a keto-friendly meal waiting for you at many popular restaurant chains.
How can you make the most of these keto-friendly restaurant options? Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Do your research: Look up restaurant menus online before you go out to eat. Many chains now provide detailed nutritional information, making it easier to plan your meal in advance.
- Don’t be afraid to customize: Most restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary requests. Ask for substitutions or modifications to make a dish more keto-friendly.
- Focus on protein and healthy fats: Choose dishes that center around meat, fish, eggs, and high-fat dairy products.
- Be mindful of hidden carbs: Sauces, dressings, and marinades can often contain hidden sugars. Ask for these on the side or opt for simple seasonings instead.
- Load up on low-carb vegetables: Many restaurants offer side dishes of steamed or grilled vegetables. These can help you feel full and satisfied while providing essential nutrients.
By keeping these strategies in mind, you can confidently navigate restaurant menus and enjoy delicious, keto-friendly meals while dining out. Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast at Starbucks, enjoying a leisurely dinner at Seasons 52, or anything in between, there’s a keto-friendly option waiting for you.
As we’ve seen, following a ketogenic diet doesn’t mean you have to give up on dining out or enjoying a diverse range of cuisines. From American classics to international flavors, there are keto-friendly options available at many popular restaurant chains. By making informed choices and being willing to customize your order, you can maintain your ketogenic lifestyle while still enjoying the social and culinary pleasures of dining out.
The increasing availability of keto-friendly options at restaurants is a testament to the growing popularity and understanding of low-carb diets. As more people adopt ketogenic and low-carb lifestyles, we can expect to see even more diverse and innovative keto-friendly offerings in the future. This trend not only benefits those strictly following a keto diet but also provides more options for anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake or make healthier choices when dining out.
In conclusion, the landscape for keto dieters dining out in 2023 is more diverse and accommodating than ever before. From quick-service chains to sit-down restaurants, there are options available to suit every taste and occasion. By being informed, prepared, and willing to communicate your dietary needs, you can successfully navigate restaurant menus while staying true to your ketogenic lifestyle.