What Restaurants Accept EBT in Massachusetts?

Did you know that there some restaurants accept EBT in Massachusetts?! If you receive SNAP benefits, you could potentially purchase hot, ready-to-eat meals at certain restaurants through the Restaurant Meals Program.

In this article, we’ll delve into the details of this program, including eligibility requirements, how it functions, and which restaurants participate in accepting SNAP payments for prepared meals.

About the Restaurant Meals Program

The Restaurant Meals Program is a part of the federal food stamps law, but its implementation is not obligatory. States have the flexibility to choose whether or not to adopt it. Some states, like California and Arizona, have been running similar programs for a long time and have numerous restaurants participating in them.

In 2023, Massachusetts initiated a pilot program for the Restaurant Meals Program, and it was anticipated to become available in the fall of that year. As of now, several restaurants in Massachusetts are equipped to accept SNAP transactions, and more are expected to join in the near future.

Who is eligible?

The Restaurant Meals Program is exclusively accessible to individuals who meet the eligibility criteria for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and reside in Massachusetts.

To qualify, you must also fulfill at least one of the following conditions:

• Be at least 60 years of age.
• Have a disability.
• Be currently experiencing homelessness.

Usually, this program is accessible if every member of the household meets these requirements or is married to someone who qualifies.

What does this program do?

In Massachusetts, the Restaurant Meals Program offers eligible SNAP recipients the opportunity to purchase hot, ready-made meals from restaurants that accept EBT payments. While SNAP benefits are typically designated for buying groceries, this program provides an exception, allowing you to savor restaurant-prepared meals.

It’s essential to remember that this program doesn’t increase your SNAP benefits, so you’ll need to carefully budget and manage your food expenses within your initial allocation.

How does it work?

If you’re a SNAP recipient and qualify for the Restaurant Meals Program, your caseworker will activate the option for you to buy meals at restaurants. If you’re uncertain about your eligibility, you can always reach out to the Massachusetts Department of Health and Human Services or Department of Transitional Assistance for clarification.

Once you’ve confirmed your approval, all you need to do is take your EBT card to a participating restaurant and use it as you would at a grocery store. It’s essential to remember that you can only purchase EBT-eligible food items at the restaurant. For example, alcoholic beverages or non-food items are not included in the Restaurant Meals Program.

When dining at a restaurant under this program, you won’t be charged taxes or expected to leave a tip. Please keep in mind that your SNAP benefits cannot be used for delivery orders; they must be used in-person at the restaurant.

These Restaurants Accept EBT in Massachusetts

There are several restaurants that accept EBT in Massachusetts through the Restaurant Meals Program and many more that are pending approval.

Bella Island Cafe (Chelsea)

Bella Isla Café is a cozy café that specializes in a fusion of Latin and Caribbean cuisines. This charming eatery is celebrated for its diverse menu that includes dishes like Empanadillas, Mofongos, Pulled Pork Sub, and Quesadillas, each bursting with unique flavors and authentic ingredients. A standout feature of Bella Isla Café is its emphasis on both traditional and inventive dishes, offering something for everyone, from classic breakfast items to creative lunch and dinner options.

Bella Isla Cafe is located at 181 Washington Ave Chelsea MA 02150. You can call them at (617) 884-1184.

Cocina Lupita (Greenfield)

Cocina Lupita in Greenfield, MA, serves authentic Salvadoran cuisine, including popular dishes like pupusas, enchiladas, and tilapia. They’re known for their fresh, locally sourced ingredients and offer a variety of Latin American and Salvadoran dishes.

Cocina Lupita is located at 10 Court Square, Greenfield, MA 01301. Their contact number is (413) 768-1034.

El Taller (Lawrence)

El Taller, located in Lawrence, Massachusetts, is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural hub that blends art and cuisine. This unique establishment not only serves delicious meals but also acts as a space for artistic expression, featuring a variety of art pieces and hosting cultural events.

El Taller is located at 275 Essex Street Lawrence, MA 01840.

Faneek’s Coney Island (Fall River)

Faneek’s Coney Island is a well-known eatery, renowned for its classic American fast food with a distinctive twist. Their menu features a variety of items, including Coney Island hot dogs, burgers, chicken, and more, all prepared with a unique flair.

Faneek’s Coney Island is located at 269 Rhode Island Ave Fall River, Massachusetts 02724. You can call them at (508) 678-8261.

Fresh Food Generation (Boston)

Fresh Food Generation in Boston offers a variety of delicious, health-conscious meals. They are known for their fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a menu that caters to a variety of dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan options. The restaurant provides dine-in, takeout, and delivery services, making it a convenient option for a variety of dining preferences.

Fresh Food Generation is located at 185 Talbot Ave, Dorchester, MA 02124. You can contact them at restaurant services at (617) 362-8995.

La Parada Dominican Kitchen (Boston)

La Parada Dominican Kitchen is a vibrant and beloved Dominican restaurant. Known for its authentic Dominican cuisine, this restaurant prides itself on offering a wide range of traditional dishes that capture the essence of Dominican culinary culture. From hearty stews and seasoned meats to flavorful rice dishes, each item on the menu is prepared with a focus on authenticity and taste.

La Parada Dominican Kitchen is located at 3094 Washington St, Boston, MA 02119. You can call them at (617) 942-7599.

Merengue Express (Boston) NEW in 2025!

Merengue Express is a lively Dominican restaurant in Boston, celebrated for its authentic and flavorful Caribbean cuisine. Known for its diverse menu, the restaurant offers traditional dishes like mofongo, mangu, chicharrones, and customizable “My Merengue Bowls,” catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.

Merengue Express is located at 1415 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02120. You can call them at (617) 238-7595.

Merengue Express (Roxbury)

Merengue Restaurant offers a Dominican dining experience that is both authentic and delightful. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional Dominican cuisine, the restaurant serves a variety of classic dishes that are both flavorful and hearty. Customers can expect to find a wide range of Dominican specialties, each prepared with care and authenticity.

Merengue Restaurant is located at 160 Blue Hill Avenue, Roxbury, MA 02119. Call them at (617) 445-5403 to see if the program is operational yet.

New Wine Pizza (Worcester)

New Wine Pizza, catering to the Clark University and the surrounding area, offers a delightful variety of dishes beyond its name-sake pizzas. The restaurant’s menu includes not only a selection of pizzas but also subs, salads, and notably, some unique items like Venezuelan empanadas and churros. These additional offerings indicate a blend of traditional Italian-American pizza joint fare with a touch of Latin American flavors, especially evident in their choice to serve Venezuelan empanadas, a beloved South American snack. Their churros, a sweet treat popular in many Spanish-speaking countries, add an unexpected but welcome dessert option to the menu.

New Wine Pizza’s policy does not allow EBT customers to order over the phone. You will need to visit the restaurant at 974 Main St C, Worcester, MA 01603 to place your order.

Pizza Maria (Brockton)

Pizza Maria in Brockton offers a range of Italian cuisine, including pizza specialties like Sausage Pepperoni Pizza, Meat Lovers Pizza, Vegetarian Pizza, and more. They also have calzones, special subs, wraps, club sandwiches, seafood dinners, parmesan subs, griddle subs, omelet subs, cold cuts subs, and Italian favorites. Their menu highlights include Cheese Pizza, Steak Calzone, and Chicken Wings.

Pizza Maria is located at 180 Oak St, Brockton, MA 02301. Their contact number is (508) 559-0701.

Sabrosa Venezuela (Worcester)

Sabrosa Venezuela is a celebrated Venezuelan restaurant located in Worcester, Massachusetts. Venezuelan restaurants typically offer a rich variety of traditional dishes such as arepas, empanadas, and pabellón criollo, showcasing the diverse flavors of Venezuelan cuisine.

This restaurant is located at 220 Harding St Worcester MA. You can call them at (774) 641-2987.

Sazon Peru Restaurant (Lawrence)

Sazon Peru Restaurant in Lawrence, MA, offers a diverse selection of Peruvian cuisine. Their menu features soups like Aguadito de Pollo and Caldo de Gallina, appetizers including Mariscos al Fuego and Papa a la Huancaina, and entrees such as Lomo Saltado, Aji de Gallina, and various Ceviches. They also offer a variety of rice dishes and desserts like Mazamorrra Morada and Leche Asada.

Sazon Peru Restaurant is located at 89 S Broadway, Lawrence, MA 01843.

Star Fish Market (Roxbury) NEW in 2025!

Star Fish Market is a no-frills seafood joint in Roxbury, serving old-school fish sandwiches, fried shrimp, clams, and scallops.

Star Fish Market is located at 3089 Washington St, Roxbury, MA 02119.

Stokes BBQ (Dorchester) NEW in 2025!

Stokes BBQ is a popular food truck in Dorchester, offering authentic Southern-style barbecue dishes. The truck serves favorites like fried wing dinners, BBQ ribs, and sweet potato fries. Known for its flavorful menu and community presence, Stokes BBQ has become a staple in the community.

Stokes BBQ is located at 323 Washington Street, Dorchester, MA 02121. You can call them at (857) 212-3432.

Vejigantes Restaurant (Boston)

Vejigantes Restaurant specializes in authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. Offering a taste of the island’s rich culinary traditions, Vejigantes presents a menu filled with traditional Puerto Rican dishes influenced by Taino Arawak, Spanish, and African cultures.

Vejigantes Restaurant is located at 57 W Dedham St, Boston, MA 02118. You can call them at 617-247-9249.

Restaurants that Have Left the Program

While updating this list, we’ve noticed that some restaurants have chosen to leave the Restaurant Meals Program. Below, you’ll find the names of restaurants that used to accept EBT but no longer do.

• Bridge Pizzeria (Revere)
• Brother’s Deli of Lynn (Lynn)
• Caribbean Classic on Wheels (Mattapan)
• Cedar’s Food Mart (Springfield)
• Crave (Holyoke)
• Firtay Restaurant (Mattapan)
• January’s Kitchen (Springfield)
• Las Delicias Colombianas (Revere)
• Las Palmas Restaurant (Roslindale)
• MexiRico (Springfield)
• Sabrine Bakery & Cafe (Maiden)

Relief Recap

We’re excited to report that 15 restaurants accept EBT in Massachusetts or will soon through the Restaurant Meals Program! This initiative allows senior citizens, individuals experiencing homelessness, or those with disabilities to use their EBT cards to purchase hot, prepared meals from participating local eateries. Our article delves into the qualifications required to partake in this program and offers an extensive directory of Massachusetts restaurants participating in it. If you’re eligible for this program, stop by one of the restaurants on our list for a meal!