The Top 5 Ethical Chain Restaurants In The U.S. Today

By Catering Staff | November 15, 2016

We all love to eat out in the best chain restaurants. We get the right balance between great flavors, affordable prices, and casual atmosphere, thus, our loyal patronage. But we have to admit that ethical considerations aren’t even being considered.

But times are a-changing. Let’s take a look at five of the chain restaurants dedicated ethical sourcing, food sustainability, and social responsibility.

Chipotle

The Mexican grill is known for its distinctive business model: To serve its customers food with integrity. You have the assurance that most of its food and drinks, such as its tacos, burritos, and salads, have been sourced from local and organic produce. Even the meat products were sourced from humanely-raised animals, which are also free from added hormones and antibiotics.

Plus, you will love the feel of authenticity of its Mexican cuisine with American touches. You’re getting a great value for your money here.

Mixt Greens

The San Francisco-based chain restaurant may only have eight locations for now but it’s on the verge of rapid expansion. Diners rave about its eco-gourmet offerings – made-to-order salads and sandwiches made from the freshest ingredients. The organic ingredients are all sourced from local farms and the food is served in compostable packaging.

Mixt Greens also adopts eco-friendly practices in most aspects of its operations. These include the use of recycled materials, renewable wood products, and energy-efficient kitchen equipment.

Jimmy Johns

The 2,000-strong locations of Jimmy Johns is a testament to its increasing popularity among ethics-conscious customers. Aside from the delicious flavors of its wide range of sandwiches, Jimmy Johns has also established a reputation for its straightforward menu. The balance between keeping things simple yet offering diners a sufficient number of choices is outstanding in its restaurants.

The fresh ingredients are also sourced from local farmers who have been selected for their sustainable farming practices, too. The chain has also established a reputation for prompt service, friendly staff, and great interiors.

The Plant Café

The small restaurant chain was built around the concept of healthy and sustainable food – and it’s succeeding. The menu offers two or more choices for every food preference and dietary restrictions, such as vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free. The ingredients are all organic, too, and sourced from local farmers in the San Francisco Bay area.

The Frothy Monkey

The Tennessee-based restaurant chain has filled a niche for Southern comfort food with trendy hipster touches. Diners love the home-style Southern dishes made from locally-sourced, organic and fresh ingredients. In fact, the company prides itself on making its food from scratch on a daily basis.

Think of it this way whenever you eat at these restaurants: You will not only enjoy delicious food, satisfactory service, and great interiors. You’re also making a contribution to a better society.