Vegan menu items have become more popular in cafes, food trucks, and even quick-service restaurants. It seems as if diners are interested in ordering dishes that feature meat alternatives.
According to a study by IMARC, the vegan food market is valued at $17 billion, and it's estimated that plant-based meat sales will increase to $35.5 billion by 2027.
One establishment has recently made a big splash in the Kansas City restaurant community, serving innovative and affordable dishes made with only plant-based elements.
Pirate's Bone Burgers
Pirate's Bone Burgers (PBB), which is a minority- and woman-owned company, offers mouth-watering food that uses high-quality, fresh ingredients that appeal to vegan and non-vegan eaters alike.
A classic plant-based single cheeseburger is one of Pirate's Bone Burger most popular items. (photo courtesy of Pirate's Bone Burger)
Diners who stop in or order online can have the classic burger joint experience with a double cheeseburger, hand-cut fries, and vanilla milkshake, all completely vegan!
At home in Kansas City
We spoke with the owner of Pirate's Bone Burgers to learn more about their Kansas City-based business and how other restaurants can venture into including vegan menu items.
Pirate’s Bone Burgers owners Zaid Renato Consuegra Sauza and Jasmine Thompson. (photo courtesy of Pirate's Bone Burger)
When owner and creative chef Zaid Renato Consuegra Sauza opened Pirate's Bone Burgers in 2019, he aimed to feed more people with more plants. Eventually, Jasmine Thompson joined the team, bringing a wealth of industry knowledge to the team.
"I have made KC (Kansas City) my home for the past 20 years," explained Jasmine. "KC has a wonderful culture—support local and shop local. From my customers to fellow restaurant owners, we truly support and build each other up."
The original Pirate's Bone is nestled in the busy Crossroads neighborhood of Kansas City, surrounded by art galleries and a hip arcade bar. It's a perfect location for a restaurant looking to serve vegan and vegan-curious customers.
With such supportive customers and fellow restaurant owners, PBB is planning to open a second concept just two miles south of its original restaurant. This time, it selected a space close to the nightlife scene and the Kansas City streetcar line along Main Street.
What's on the menu
There's something on the menu for everyone at Pirate's Bone. They offer dishes such as cheese fries—a mountain of crispy fries topped with a liberal amount of cashew cheese—and "Chicken" Nuggz served with multiple dipping sauces (we recommend the bang-bang sauce!).
PBB serves up fries piled high and topped with cashew cheese. (photo courtesy of Pirate's Bone Burger)
But there is one item that diners can't get enough of. "The most ordered item has to be the 'I Can't Believe It's Not Beef' classic burger," revealed Jasmine.
The journey of plant-based meals
With plenty of customers dining in and placing orders online, it's hard to believe that plant-based skeptics still exist. Pirate's Bone Burger hopes to convince diners that meatless meals are tasty and satisfying. "Customers should be open-minded and simply give us a shot. Then, they will realize that no animal needs to sacrifice its life in order for people to enjoy a delicious meal," suggested Jasmine.
PBB has perfected the art of creating a menu full of delicious plant-based dishes and believes any chef can do the same.
"Be innovative and creative when designing the menu," suggested Jasmine.
Real customer stories
"Grabbed takeout from Pirate's Bone for dinner. Ordering online and pickup were a breeze! We got the original burger and the beet burger. Both were delicious!"
- Amanda R. | Yelp | March 2021
"Amazing. Super easy online ordering and a lot of payment options, which I greatly appreciated. Menu was easy to navigate, and the gluten-free/allergy-conscious options are amazing!"
- Christian B. | Menufy Customer Feedback | March 2022
"PBB produced one of the best burgers I have eaten in my nearly 70 years. A legitimate quarter-pound hamburger with a wonderful savory seasoning that I haven't tasted before."
- Calvin K. | Menufy Customer Feedback | May 2022
The Last Bite
If you live in the area or are visiting the bustling town of Kansas City, Pirate's Bone Burger is a must-try spot.
For restaurant operators who are curious to expand their menu, PBB is a great example of how restaurants can serve up fresh and delicious vegan fare.
Not only will a plant-based option make your restaurant more inclusive, but it's also good for business.
Menufy is a proud partner of Pirate's Bone Burger, providing online ordering services with delivery and takeout capabilities.
Hungry for more vegan options? Filter, search, and order online from thousands of restaurants to find your new favorite spot!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Melissa Dimmitt, Marketing Manager
Melissa is the Marketing Manager for Menufy by HungerRush. She began working with restaurant managers and executive chefs over a decade ago, coordinating seasonal menu releases, executing photoshoots, and creating fresh digital content.