By Claire DaQuino
Driving home from a visit on my grandma’s patio, my sister, mom, and I decided to try Amy’s Drive Thru in Rohnert Park. Each time we visit my grandparents we pass the vegetarian fast food restaurant with the grass roof and I have always been curious to try it out.
When we first drove up, after a friendly greeting from the workers in the drive through line, I looked at the menu and immediately noticed the impressively low prices. High prices make eating plant-based unsustainable—a common misconception around vegan and vegetarian food. However, Amy’s proves extremely budget-friendly. The menu is simple and short, but the options don’t disappoint. Amy’s provides an impressive variety of foods for such a small menu, ranging from burgers to burritos.
The actual food, once again, did not disappoint. I ordered the super salad, which consists of seasonal lettuces, quinoa, hummus, baked tofu, carrots, purple cabbage, and pumpkin seeds. This salad costs $10.29 and admittedly, I did order one of the most expensive items on the menu, but the price still isn’t too bad compared to many other restaurants. In addition, the portion of hummus was generous, the tofu was perfectly firm, and the veggies were extremely fresh. Overall, the meal was pleasantly flavorful, despite the simple ingredients. After the salad, I felt comfortable and satisfied; not at all like I had eaten fast food.
My sister ordered the chili, which costs $4.29. After the first couple bites she said the “chili is very watery,” but she did forget to stir the dish. When she reached the bottom half she realized that all the beans had sunk and the chili wasn’t as watery as she thought. The beans in the soup were paired with tofu, which was surprising, as I expected plant based meat or lentils to replace the beef, but she seemed happy with the tofu. Overall, the portion size and flavors were satisfying, especially considering the low price.
Lastly, my mom ordered Amy’s single burger which consists of a veggie patty, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and Fred Sr’s Secret Sauce, which can be ordered regular or spicy… all for only $5.29. She opted for regular cheese, but vegan cheese is an option. My mom was “pleasantly surprised for a vegetarian burger,” but wasn’t entirely satisfied with the small size of the meal. However, she especially enjoyed the great price.
Overall, I’d give Amy’s an 8/10, as I felt great after my meal and was pleased with the flavors and prices. If you’re looking for a new, slightly healthier fast food restaurant, Amy’s Drive Thru is a great option for vegetarian and vegan options!