Delectable Showdown: McVeggie vs A&W’s Masala Veggie
September 16, 2025, McDonald’s Canada has introduced the McVeggie sandwich at participating locations nationwide. This addition marks the company’s latest move toward inclusivity in its menu offerings. This launch follows positive response when the McVeggie was tested earlier this year in British Columbia, Ontario, and New Brunswick.
A&W’s Established Lead
While McDonald’s is just entering this space, A&W has been steadily building its vegetarian reputation. Back in June 2024, A&W tested the Masala Veggie Burger, and the trial quickly exceeded expectations with record-breaking sales. By June 2025, the Masala Veggie Burger—and its sibling, the Crispy Veggie Burger—became permanent fixtures on menus nationwide.
What sets A&W apart is its collaboration with Nanak® Foods, a Canadian company recognized for its South Asian dairy products. The result is a patty made with paneer, vegetables, and aromatic spices, paired with either a bold piri piri sauce or creamy mayo. Finished with crisp lettuce, tomato, and onions on a toasted bun, the burger balances texture and spice in a way that feels rooted in culinary traditions.
McVeggie vs. Masala Veggie Burger
Both McDonald’s and A&W are tapping into the same demand: Canadians — especially multicultural audiences like South Asians — who want vegetarian fast-food options that don’t compromise on flavour.
- The McVeggie: A seasoned veggie patty topped with mayo-style or spicy habanero sauce.
- The Masala Veggie Burger: Paneer, veggies, and spices in a hearty patty, paired with bold piri piri or mayo, plus fresh toppings.
While McVeggie is McDonald’s exciting first step into the vegetarian burger space, A&W’s Masala Veggie Burger offers a deeper cultural flavor profile that’s already earned loyal fans across the country.
What It Means for Canadian Diners
The rise of vegetarian and plant-based options in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry reflects changing consumer expectations. Canadians aren’t just looking for healthier choices — they’re looking for variety, authenticity, and taste. With McDonald’s entering the arena, the competition for the best veggie burger in Canada just got even more exciting. The real question? Which one wins the taste test — McDonald’s McVeggie or A&W’s Masala Veggie Burger?
More…
- https://www.thestar.com/life/food-and-drink/mcdonald
- https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/a-amp-w-s-masala-veggie-burger
- https://nowtoronto.com/news/the-mcveggie-will-be-rolling-out-at-mcdonalds-across-canada
