A landmark opening in Kyiv
On September 29, 2025, KFC will open its first vegetarian restaurant in Ukraine at Blockbuster Mall, Kyiv. Unlike the brand’s traditional outlets, the new location features a completely plant-based menu, based on mycoprotein — a mushroom-derived ingredient rich in protein and fiber, free of cholesterol, and with a lower carbon footprint compared to meat.
Although the menu includes dairy and eggs, making it vegetarian rather than vegan, the launch marks a bold step for a global fast-food giant synonymous with chicken.
What’s on the menu
Visitors will find classic KFC formats in new versions alongside fresh vegetarian dishes:
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Veggie Strips
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Veggie Burger
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Veggie Twister
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Salad with Veggie Strips
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Rice Box with Veggie Strips (with teriyaki sauce and sesame)
Burgers and twisters are served with crispy iceberg, pickled cucumbers, and signature sauces, while salads include fresh tomatoes. Some meals come in special “green” packaging to highlight the unique format.
A new look and concept
The transformation extends beyond the menu.
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Traditional red branding gives way to green.
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Interiors feature plant motifs.
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Instead of the chicken image, the slogan reads: “100% taste. 0% chicken.”
According to Alina Kiptyk, CEO of the KFC “Tasty Food” franchise in Ukraine, this move reflects long-term trends rather than a short marketing experiment:
“The emergence of a completely plant-based KFC is not just a tribute to fashion or a marketing ploy. It is a demonstration that even classic brands are able to evolve and offer formats that recently seemed niche.”
Opening offers and schedule
The Blockbuster Mall restaurant will operate:
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Mon–Thu: 12:00 – 21:00
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Fri–Sun: 10:00 – 22:00
From September 29 to October 5, guests can enjoy a 10% discount on all vegetarian dishes and free delivery via Bolt Food.
Why it matters
The launch aligns with the global rise of plant-based diets. A large-scale study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Adventist Health Study, ~80,000 participants, 7.9 years) found that vegetarians had a 12% lower overall risk of cancer, and up to 18% lower risk for certain types, including melanoma, lymphoma, and pancreatic cancer.
KFC’s shift shows how even legacy fast-food brands are adapting to health, sustainability, and lifestyle demands worldwide.
