NoshQuad Blog Post

7 States+ 200 Restaurants That Accept EBT In 2023

By admin

April 03, 2024

In recent years, the accessibility and acceptance of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards have expanded beyond traditional grocery stores. The Restaurant Meals Program, an initiative under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), has enabled eligible individuals and families to use their EBT cards at select restaurants.

In this article, we will delve into the Restaurant Meals Program, how the Food Stamps Program works, the benefits of using EBT at restaurants, the process of using EBT at fast food establishments, and explore restaurants that accept EBT, particularly in California.

Can Restaurants Take EBT

Generally, no, restaurants cannot take EBT. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, can only be used to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers. These retailers typically include grocery stores, farmer’s markets, and convenience stores. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule.

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) allows certain SNAP recipients to purchase prepared meals at authorized restaurants using their EBT card. This program is currently only available in seven states:

1. Arizona

2. California

3. Illinois

4. Maryland

5. Michigan

6. Rhode Island

7. Virginia

Some states allow EBT to be used to purchase hot, prepared food in the deli sections of participating grocery stores. This is typically limited to certain items, such as hot sandwiches and rotisserie chicken.

What is The Restaurant Meals Program?

The Restaurant Meals Program is a part of the Food Stamps Program, commonly known as SNAP. It is designed to assist vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, disabled, and homeless individuals, who may not have access to cooking facilities or are unable to prepare meals at home.

This program allows qualified EBT recipients to use their benefits at participating restaurants, enabling them to purchase hot, prepared meals. While not all restaurants are part of this program, an increasing number of states have implemented it to ensure that those in need have access to nutritious meals.

How the Food Stamps Program Works?

The Food Stamps Program, or SNAP, is a federally funded assistance program that provides eligible low-income individuals and families with an EBT card. This card functions like a debit card and is preloaded with a designated amount of funds each month. Recipients can use their EBT cards to purchase approved food items at authorized retailers, including grocery stores and farmers’ markets, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and more.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Using EBT at Restaurants

Advantages of Using EBT at Restaurants:	Disadvantages of Using EBT at Restaurants:
Enhanced accessibility to warm meals for vulnerable populations.	Limited restaurant options may participate in the program.
Provides a variety of nutritious meal options for EBT recipients.	Non-food purchases are not allowed with EBT cards.
Offers convenience and flexibility for individuals with limited cooking facilities or mobility issues.	Stigma and social perception may be associated with EBT usage at restaurants.
Supports the local economy by patronizing participating restaurants.	Potential for misuse and unauthorized purchases.
Promotes dignity and inclusion for EBT recipients.	Administrative challenges for both restaurants and SNAP agencies.

How to Use Your EBT Card at Fast Food Restaurants:

Using your EBT card at fast food establishments is a simple process. However, it’s essential to note that not all fast food chains participate in the Restaurant Meals Program, and the availability of this service may vary by state and location. To determine if a specific restaurant accepts EBT, you can inquire at the establishment or visit the official website of your state’s SNAP agency, which often provides a list of participating restaurants.

Once you’ve confirmed that a restaurant accepts EBT, ordering is similar to any other transaction. At the counter, let the cashier know you’ll use an EBT card. They will process your order and deduct the amount from your EBT account. It’s crucial to remember that EBT cards can only be used for qualifying food items, and non-food items or hot prepared foods not covered by the program cannot be purchased with EBT.

What are the restaurants that accept EBT In California?

As one of the states at the forefront of the Restaurant Meals Program, California offers various dining options for EBT recipients. The program used to be managed at the county level, but the state has changed its policies so now the program is authorized statewide.

There are over 200 restaurants that accept EBT in California, including:

A&T Burgers
Alma’s Cookies & Company Restaurant
Ameci Pizza Kitchen
Angelo’s Burger
Arby’s
Arnold’s Burgers
Art’s Famous Chili Dog
B&R’s Old Fashion Burger
Baby Brother Pizza
Banh Mi Che Cali
Bayou Grille
BBQ Express
BBQ King
Big Al’s Pizza
Bobo’s Hamburger
Bonnie B’s Smokin BBQ
Boy’s Hamburgers
Bravo Burger
Broadway Food Corner
Brother’s BBQ
Burger King
Cafe Creole
California Cheeseburgers
California Steak & Fries
Campus Ktichen
Captain Tony’s Pizza and Pasta
Carl’s Jr
Carnitas Michoacán
Casa Sanchez
Ceiba Restaurant
Chabelita’s Restaurant
Chavez Polo & Burger
China Beauty Food Express
Chinatown Express
Chinese Express
Church’s Chicken
City Hall Market Restaurant
Classic Burger
Cliff’s Texas Style Burritos
Corner Kafe
Covina Burgers
Crazy Falafel
Curry Time
Cypress Best Burgers
D’s Original Take Out Grill
Daily Donuts House
Del Taco
Deli Robert’s Pizza
Denny’s
Dinna’s Mexican Food Restaurant
Dickey’s BBQ Pit
Dino’s Burgers
Dominguez Pizza
Domino’s Pizza
Dono’s Fish & Chicken
Doublz
Downtown Catch 21
Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen
El Arka Bakery & Restaurant
El Huero
El Merendero
El Pollo Loco
Jack in the Box
Le Pardis Bakery and Cafe
New York Pizza
NYC Deli & Grill
Nikko’s Family Restaurant
Primo Burgers
Taqueria El Torero
and more!

Conclusion: Restaurants That Accept EBT

The Restaurant Meals Program has proven to be a crucial extension of the Food Stamps Program, ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to warm and nourishing meals. By using their EBT cards at participating restaurants, eligible individuals can maintain a balanced diet, regardless of their living situation or ability to cook at home.

While not all restaurants accept EBT, the program’s expansion signifies a significant step towards promoting food security and supporting local businesses. To discover the restaurants that accept EBT in your area, check with your state’s SNAP agency and explore the options available to you.