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.

Bridge Pizzeria (Revere)

Bridge Pizzeria is a popular destination for pizza lovers. Their philosophy revolves around the belief that superior ingredients make a superior pizza. They are known for their hearty portions and bold flavors, offering a range of delicious pizzas made with the best dough, sauce, and ingredients.

Bridge Pizzeria is located at 800 Washington Ave. Revere, MA. You can call them at (781) 324-1778.

Brother’s Deli of Lynn (Lynn; NEW in 2024!)

Brother’s Deli of Lynn offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options, including eggs, French toast, pancakes, omelets, soups, salads, sandwiches, and club sandwiches. They also feature daily specials like Grilled Chicken Over Greek Salad, American Chop Suey, Corned Beef Sandwich, and Meatloaf. The deli is known for its handcrafted signature sandwiches and meals made from fresh ingredients.

Brother’s Deli is located at 41 Market St, Lynn, MA 01901. You can reach them at (781) 581-3363. The restaurant is expected to start processing EBT payments in 2024.

Caribbean Classic on Wheels (Matapan; NEW in 2024!)

Food trucks specializing in Caribbean cuisine typically offer dishes like jerk chicken, curries, rotis, and rice and peas, showcasing the rich flavors of the Caribbean islands.

As a food truck, Caribbean Classic on Wheels does not have a fixed address but it operates in the Mattapan area of MA. The truck is expected to start processing EBT payments in 2024.

Cedar’s Food Mart (Springfield; NEW in 2024!)

Cedar’s Food Mart is more than just a food mart; it’s a gateway to authentic Lebanese cuisine. Since 2012, this establishment has been serving a wide array of Lebanese dishes, from savory shawarma to mouthwatering kebabs. They pride themselves on using the finest ingredients to create traditional Lebanese recipes that transport diners to the heart of the Mediterranean.

Cedar’s Food Mart and Grill is located at 405 Armory Springfield, Massachusetts 01104. They are expected to start processing SNAP payments sometime in 2024, so make sure to call (413) 273-1215 to check before you make the trip.

Cocina Lupita (Greenfield; NEW in 2024!)

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. They will start accepting EBT payments in 2024, broadening their reach within the community.

Crave (Holyoke; NEW in 2024!)

Crave specializes in Latin American cuisine with a focus on tacos and street food. Their menu features customer favorites like street corn, tropical tacos, canoas, and chicken rice bowls. They offer a variety of appetizers such as Plantain Fries, Street Corn & Chips, Chicken Birria Egg Rolls, and more. For the main course, their taco selections include Tropical Tacos, Birria Tacos, and various others with exciting flavors.

Crave is located at 285 High St, Holyoke, MA 01040. You can reach them at (413) 427-9328. In 2024, Crave is also expected to begin processing EBT payments, making their delicious offerings more accessible to the community.

El Taller (Lawrence; NEW in 2024!)

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. This restaurant is expected to start accepting EBT benefits sometime in 2024. Call them at (978) 965-4145 to see if the program has launched yet.

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; NEW in 2024!)

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. Fresh Food Generation is expected to start processing EBT payments in 2024, expanding its accessibility to a wider range of customers.

Firtay Restaurant (Mattapan: NEW in 2024!)

Fritay Restaurant specializes in Haitian cuisine. While specific menu details were not available, Haitian cuisine typically includes dishes like Griyo (fried pork), Legume (vegetable stew), and various seafood options. Fritay Restaurant is known for its authentic flavors and traditional Haitian dishes.

Fritay Restaurant is located at 532 River St, Mattapan, MA 02126. You can contact them at (617) 322-9153. The restaurant is set to begin accepting EBT payments in 2024.

January’s Kitchen (Springfield; NEW in 2024!)

January’s Kitchen is a food truck in Springfield, MA, serving soul food. Their menu includes entrees like Fried Chicken Wings, BBQ Chicken, and Fried Fish, served with sides such as Cabbage, Collard Greens, Mac ‘N Cheese, Sweet Potatoes, and Potato Salad. They also offer homemade desserts like Banana Pudding and Brownie Explosion.

January’s Kitchen is located at 96 Boylston Street, Springfield, Massachusetts 01104. They can be contacted at (413) 218-1671. January’s Kitchen is also anticipated to start processing EBT payments in 2024.

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.

Las Delicias Colombianas (Revere; NEW in 2024!)

Las Delicias Colombianas is a restaurant that brings the rich and diverse flavors of Colombian cuisine to its customers. Known for its authentic and traditional Colombian dishes, the restaurant offers a wide variety of options including arepas, bandeja paisa, and other classic Colombian specialties.

Las Delicias Colombianas is located at 86 Shirley Ave, Revere, MA 02151. They are expected to start accepting SNAP payments through the Restaurant Meals Program sometime in 2024. You can call them at (781) 286-7600 to see if the program is operational yet.

Las Palmas Restaurant (Roslindale; NEW in 2024!)

Las Palmas Restaurant offers Mexican and Latin American cuisine. The menu features breakfast bowls like Mangu con Tres Golpes and Yucca con Tres Golpes, appetizers such as Empanadas and Bollitos con Queso, lunch and dinner bowls, soups like Sancocho and Mondongo, and hot sandwiches including Club Dominicano and Dominicano Sandwich.

Las Palmas Restaurant is located at 4337 Washington St, Roslindale, MA 02131. Contact them at (617) 323-3339. This restaurant is also expected to begin processing EBT payments in 2024.

Merengue Restaurant (Roxbury; NEW in 2024!)

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. This restaurant is expected to start accepting EBT benefits in 2024. Call them at (617) 445-5403 to see if the program is operational yet.

MexiRico (Springfield; New in 2024!)

MexiRico is an exciting culinary destination that combines the flavors of Mexican and Puerto Rican cuisines. This unique fusion results in a menu that offers an array of dishes rich in taste and cultural heritage. From traditional Mexican tacos and enchiladas to Puerto Rican mofongo and pasteles, MexiRico provides a diverse dining experience.

MexiRico is located at 64 Hancock Street Springfield, MA 01109. This restaurant is expected to start accepting SNAP benefits sometime in 2024. Call them at (413) 317-7142 to see if they’re ready to take those payments before you go.

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; NEW in 2024!)

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. This location is set to start accepting EBT payments sometime in 2024.

Sabrine Bakery & Cafe (Maiden; NEW in 2024!)

Sabrine Bakery and Cafe offers a unique blend of Moroccan and French bakery and café items. Their menu includes a variety of handmade Moroccan foods, artisan bread, gourmet coffee, and delightful pastries. Customers rave about their coffee, seafood wrap, flat bread, and lamb platter. They also offer traditional Moroccan dishes and a selection of breakfast items.

Sabrine Bakery and Cafe is located at 91 Centennial Ave, Revere, MA 02151. You can contact them at (781) 629-7410. Sometime in 2024, they will be equipped to process EBT payments, further serving the community.

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; NEW in 2024!)

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. The restaurant is expected to start processing EBT payments in 2024.

Vejigantes Restaurant (Boston: NEW in 2024!)

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. This restaurant is expected to start accepting EBT benefits sometime in 2024.

Relief Recap

We’re excited to report that 23 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!

Nicole Thelin

Nicole is the founder and lead researcher of Low Income Relief. After a personal experience with poverty and homelessness following her husband's sudden medical discharge from the U.S. Army, Nicole discovered the life-changing impact of community resources. This experience ignited her passion for empowering others to navigate similar crises. Nicole launched her writing career at age 16, working for various newspapers and publications. Her commitment to in-depth research and accessible content has been recognized by Google for Publishers and other industry leaders. For over 20 years, she has applied her investigative skills to uncover the most helpful, up-to-date information on benefits programs and community resources, ensuring Low Income Relief maintains the most extensive resource databases available.