What Restaurants Accept EBT in Michigan in 2024?

Did you realize that some restaurants accept EBT in Michigan? If you’re a recipient of SNAP benefits, you may have the opportunity to buy freshly prepared, hot meals from specific restaurants through the Restaurant Meals Program.

In this article, we will explore the specifics of this program, including who qualifies for it, how it operates, and which restaurants are involved in accepting SNAP payments for ready-to-eat meals.

About the Restaurant Meals Program

The Restaurant Meals Program is a special loophole that allows restaurants to accept EBT in Michigan. It’s is a component of the federal food stamps legislation, but it’s not mandatory for states to implement it. States have the freedom to decide whether they want to adopt this program or not. Certain states, such as California and Arizona, have long-standing versions of similar programs with many restaurants actively participating.

In Michigan, the history of the Restaurant Meals Program has been marked by fluctuations. It was initially introduced for a few years, then discontinued, and later reinstated with an announcement in 2020. It seems that this time, the program is here to stay!

Who is eligible?

The Restaurant Meals Program is exclusively open to individuals who fulfill the eligibility requirements of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as the Food Assistance Program (FAP) in Michigan.

In order to buy meals from restaurants that accept EBT in Michigan, each member of your household must satisfy at least one of the following conditions:

1. Be at least 60 years old.
2. Be permanently disabled and receiving disability benefits from a government program.
3. Be homeless.
4. Be the spouse of someone who is either at least 60 years old, permanently disabled, or homeless.

Please keep in mind that every individual listed on your SNAP account must meet at least one of these criteria. If even a single person does not meet the requirements, your household will not be eligible for the Restaurant Meals Program.

What does this program do?

If you are eligible, the Restaurant Meals Program will allow you to buy hot, prepared meals from restaurants that accept EBT payments. While SNAP benefits are typically designated for purchasing groceries, this program creates an exception so that you can buy restaurant-prepared dishes. It’s important to note, though, that you still cannot utilize your SNAP benefits to buy alcohol, cigarettes, or non-food items through this program.

The program also ensures that you won’t be subject to taxes or tips on the meals you purchase with your EBT card. However, you cannot use the program to cover delivery fees. You have to use your card at the restaurant.

It’s crucial to bear in mind that this program does not increase your SNAP benefits. You’ll still get the same amount, which means you’ll have to budget carefully if you’re buying restaurant meals.

How does it work?

If you’re a recipient of SNAP benefits and meet the criteria for the Restaurant Meals Program, your caseworker will activate this option for you. You can verify this by logging into your MIBridges account, where you’ll find a message indicating your eligibility for the Restaurant Meals Program. If you believe you qualify but don’t see the message, you can reach out to your caseworker for assistance.

Once your eligibility is confirmed, all that’s left to do is take your EBT card to a restaurant that accepts EBT and swipe your card just like you would at a grocery store. It’s important to keep in mind that you can only use your EBT card to buy food items that are eligible under the program. Items like alcoholic beverages or non-food products are not covered by the Restaurant Meals Program.

When you buy restaurant meals with your EBT card, you’ll receive a printed receipt displaying your remaining balance. If your card balance isn’t sufficient to cover the entire bill, it’s essential to inform the cashier before swiping your EBT card. This way, they can split the transaction between your EBT card and another payment method if needed.

These Restaurants Accept EBT in Michigan

There are several restaurants that accept EBT in Michigan through the Restaurant Meals Program. Here’s an overview.

Bionde’s Subs (Dearborn; NEW in 2024!)

Bionde’s Subs is a popular sandwich shop in Dearborn known for its range of delicious subs. The restaurant offers a variety of subs with fresh ingredients, catering to different tastes. The atmosphere is inviting, perfect for a quick meal or a casual dining experience.

Bionde’s Subs is located at 7544 Greenfield Rd, Dearborn, MI. For more information or to contact them, please visit their website at Bionde’s Online.

Breadless (Detroit)

Breadless in Detroit specializes in innovative breadless options, ideal for those following gluten-free or low-carb diets. Their menu includes salads, wraps, and bowls made with fresh ingredients. It’s a health-conscious eatery offering a unique dining experience.

You can find Breadless at 2760 E Larned St, Detroit, MI. For more details or to get in touch, please visit Breadless.

Burton Village BBQ Company (Grand Rapids)

Burton Village BBQ Company in Grand Rapids is a haven for barbecue enthusiasts. This restaurant prides itself on its slow-cooked, smoked meats, infused with rich, authentic flavors. The menu includes classic BBQ favorites like ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, alongside a selection of homemade sides that perfectly complement the smoky dishes.

Located at 803 Burton St. SE, Grand Rapids, Kent, this BBQ joint is a must-visit for those craving traditional, mouth-watering barbecue. You can contact Burton Village BBQ Company at (616) 465-4233.

Harvey House Restaurant (Constantine; NEW in 2024!)

Constantine’s Harvey House is a local restaurant and bar situated on the St. Joe river in Constantine, MI. It’s known for its good food, especially their great burgers, offered at better prices. A distinguishing feature of this eatery is its all-day breakfast service. Additionally, it sometimes hosts live music, adding to the vibrant dining experience.

You can find Constantine’s Harvey House at 125 W Water St, Constantine, St. Joseph. For more details, visit their Facebook page.

Dee’s Pizza Pad

Dee’s Pizza Pad is a family-style pizza restaurant in Prescott. They offer a range of pizzas, sweet treats, weekly specials, and fried foods, suitable for family dining and sports enthusiasts. They provide dine-in, delivery, and pick-up options.

Located at 2100 E Greenwood Rd, Prescott, MI, Dee’s Pizza Pad can be further explored at their website Dee’s Pizza Pad.

Eastside Fish Fry (Lansing; NEW in 2024!)

Eastside Fish Fry & Grill in Lansing offers a delightful culinary experience with its fried home-style classics and fresh seafood. Their diverse menu includes fried chicken, seafood dishes like trout, walleye, and catfish, and exotic options such as frog legs and alligator tails. They also cater to sweet cravings with treats like deep-fried Oreos. The restaurant is committed to sustainability, with most of their seafood being wild-caught. They also offer catering services for various events.

Located at 2417 E Kalamazoo St, Lansing, MI 48912, you can contact them at (517) 993-5988 or visit their website for more information.

Emma’s Coffee House (Bad Axe)

Emma’s Coffee House offers a variety of hot and cold specialty drinks, such as chai lattes, cappuccinos, bubble teas and coffees. They also have a selection of sandwiches and sandwiches.

This coffee house is located at 123 N Port Crescent St Bad Axe, Michigan, 84813. You can call them at (989) 975-6006 or visit their website for details.

ERR’Thang Smoked (Detroit; NEW in 2024!)

ERR’Thang Smoked in Detroit is celebrated for its quality smoked meat and soul food. As a prominent BBQ restaurant, it features popular items like chicken wings dinner, smoked and chargrilled Angus beef, jumbo fried shrimp, and unique dishes such as Mary’s Loaded Red Skin Potatoes. They emphasize using only fresh ingredients and preparing each dish with passion and care. The restaurant offers a variety of options including catering, gluten-free, healthy, and vegan choices.

You can visit ERR’Thang Smoked at 14203 West McNichols, Detroit, MI, or contact them at (313) 933-3700. For more details, check their website ERR’Thang Smoked.

Foundry Bakehouse & Deli (Albion)

Foundry Bakehouse and Deli is known for its delightful array of mouth-watering sandwiches, delicious soups, crispy salads, and freshly baked goods, all crafted with pride and high-quality ingredients. They emphasize quality meats, premium cheeses, homemade bread, and fresh, crisp components to ensure their sandwiches are exceptionally tasty.

Located at 400 S Superior St., Albion, MI 49224, Foundry Bakehouse and Deli is open Tuesday through Saturday.. You can contact them at (517) 680-0092 or visit their website for more information.

Heavenly Chicken & Waffles (Detroit; NEW in 2024!)

Heavenly Chicken & Waffles offers a unique and delectable dining experience, combining fresh Amish chicken and homemade waffles. Known for their east coast style with a Michigan twist, they have garnered attention, including being featured three times on Fox2 news morning show.

Their menu is notable for its made-to-order meals, emphasizing the freshness and quality of their food over speed. With a variety of flavored waffles, including strawberry, banana, cinnamon, chocolate chip, and apple cinnamon, they cater to a range of tastes. For those seeking an extra touch of indulgence, they offer the option to top your waffle with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

The establishment is located at 10625 W McNichols Rd, Detroit, MI 48221, and can be contacted at (313) 766-0110 for reservations and inquiries about their services.

Hello Shwarma (Hamtramck; NEW in 2024!)

Hello Shawarma LLC in Hamtramck, MI, offers a rich menu highlighting Middle Eastern cuisine with a focus on shawarmas. Their offerings include a variety of wraps, salads, and dinner entrees, featuring both meat and vegetarian options. The restaurant is celebrated for its fresh ingredients and authentic flavors, incorporating traditional cooking methods to provide a genuine Middle Eastern dining experience. Customers can also enjoy family platters, a selection of sides, desserts, and raw juices & smoothies.

You can visit Hello Shawarma LLC at 3124 Caniff St, Hamtramck, MI 48212. For more information or to place an order, call them at (313) 707-0988 or visit their website.

Holy Cow! Creamery (Wyandotte)

Holy Cow Creamery provides many local delights, including waffle nachos, shakes and Dole Whip! They are especially known for their flavorful frozen treats.

This establishment is located at 939 Ford Ave in Wyandotte. You can reach them at (734) 407-8077 or visit their Facebook page for details.

Joezanos Pizza (Hamilton; NEW in 2024!)

Joezanos Pizza offers a delightful menu with a variety of Italian-inspired dishes. Their specialties include various pizzas, breadsticks, manicotti, and subs like the Italian and Deluxe Sub. They also serve salads and desserts to complement their main dishes. The restaurant is known for its casual dining atmosphere, making it a great spot for a comfortable and relaxed meal. Vegetarian options are available, catering to a range of dietary preferences.

You can find Joezanos Pizza at 3606 Lincoln Rd, Hamilton, MI 49419. For more information or to place an order, call (269) 264-1280 or visit their website.

Just Munchies (Lansing)

Just Munchies appears to be a small local eatery in Lansing. According to Yelp, they feature a variety of seafood and wings, such as catfish, shrimp, and more. You can buy uncooked or cooked meals from this establishment.

They are located at 4100 S Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Lansing, MI 48910.

Market Fresh Deli (Detroit)

Market Fresh Deli is a sandwich shop in Detroit. They offer cheeseburgers, sandwiches, wraps and other staples.

You can find Market Fresh Deli at 18200 W Chicago St Detroit, MI 48228.

McDonald’s (multiple locations)

McDonald’s is a globally recognized fast-food chain known for its wide range of burgers, fries, breakfast items, soft drinks, and desserts. They offer a variety of menu options, including the famous Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, Chicken McNuggets, and the Egg McMuffin. McDonald’s is also known for its Happy Meals, tailored for children, with a small toy included. The company is committed to convenient and quick service, with many locations offering drive-thru, dine-in, and delivery options.

There are only six McDonald’s restaurants that accept EBT in Michigan:

• Jackson: 407 West Prospect St Jackson MI 49202
• Jackson: 1105 N West Avenue Jackson MI 49202
• Jackson: 3310 E Michigan Jackson MI 49202
• Jackson: 6011 Ann Arbor Rd Jackson MI 49201
• Jackson: 1909 W Michigan Ave Jackson MI 49202
• Kalamazoo: 4310 Stadium Dr Kalamazoo MI 49008

Motor City Smoothies (Detroit; NEW in 2024!)

Motor City Smoothies is known for their natural and organic smoothies, which are made with fresh whole fruits and veggies. They do not use artificial sweeteners or additives like syrups or coloring.

You can find Motor City Smoothie Company at 13222 E Jefferson Ave Detroit, MI 48215. For more information, please visit their website.

Ray’s Pizza and Chicken (Detroit)

Ray’s Pizza & Chicken Inc offers American cuisine with a focus on pizza and chicken dishes. They are known for their quick bite, late-night food, and vegetarian options, making it a versatile choice for various dining needs. The restaurant is also appreciated for being kid-friendly and providing a drive-through option, adding to its convenience.

Ray’s Pizza & Chicken Inc is located at 19005 Telegraph Rd, Detroit, MI 48219, USA. You can contact them at (313) 387-3333 for more details​

Sally’s Whatta Pizza (White Cloud)

Sally’s Family Restaurant & Whatta Pizza is a beloved hometown diner known for its classic, homestyle meals. They offer an extensive menu that includes breakfast served all day, sandwiches, submarines, burgers, full dinner meals, and a range of specialty pizzas and classic favorites. The restaurant is also known for its homemade cinnamon rolls and pumpkin bread.

Visit Sally’s Family Restaurant & Whatta Pizza at 103 N Charles St., White Cloud, MI 49349. For information or to place an order, you can visit their website or contact them at (231) 689-6560.

Sheeba Express (Detroit)

Sheeba Express is renowned for its Mediterranean cuisine with a diverse menu including popular items like shish tawook, lamb chops, and chicken shawarma sandwiches. The restaurant receives high praise for its delectable food and excellent service, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

You can find Sheeba Express at 1366 W Fort St, Detroit, MI 48226. For inquiries or to place an order, you can contact them at (313) 965-9121. More details about their offerings and customer reviews can be found on the Sheeba Express website.

Siraj Cuisine (Lansing)

Siraj Cuisine ioffers a variety of Halal foods, specializing in bakery and grill items. The restaurant provides a range of dishes that feature Middle Eastern flavors, with a focus on fresh, Halal-certified ingredients. The menu likely includes traditional items like hummus, tabbouleh, and falafel, catering to both meat-lovers and vegetarians.

Siraj Cuisine is located at 3700 S Waverly Rd, Lansing, MI 48911. You can reach them at 517-763-2326 or visit their website for more information.

Subway (multiple locations; NEW in 2024!)

Subway is a well-known fast-food restaurant chain with multiple locations globally. It specializes in submarine sandwiches (subs) and salads. Subway offers a customizable menu where customers can choose from a variety of bread, meats, vegetables, and sauces to create their own sub. The chain is known for its focus on healthier fast-food options and its slogan “Eat Fresh.”

There are 39 Subway restaurants that accept EBT in Michigan:

• Auburn Bay: 104 W Midland Rd Auburn Bay MI 48611
• Auburn Hills: 4000 Baldwin Rd FC02 GL Crossing Auburn Hills MI 48326
• Auburn Hills: 4141 Joslyn Rd Auburn Hills MI 48326
• Bay City: 904 N. Euclid Ave Bay City MI 48706
• Bay City: 1006 Lafayette Ave Bay City MI 48708
• Birch Run: 9197 Birch Run Rd Birch Run MI 48415
• Burton: 1348 E Bristol Rd Burton MI 48529
• Burton: 4013 E Court St Burton MI 48509
• Burton: 2424 S Center Rd Burton MI 48519
• Burton: 5323 E Court St Burton MI 48509
• Caro: 1121 E Caro Rd Caro MI 48723
• Caro: 884 S State St Caro MI 48723
• Clarkston: 5930 Sashabaw Rd Clarkston MI 48346
• Clarkston: 7743 Sashabaw Rd Clarkston MI 48346
• Clio: 11493 N Linden Rd Clio MI 48420
• Durand: 8592 E Lansing Rd Durand MI 48429
• Essexville: 1512 W Center Rd Essexville MI 48732
• Fenton: 1298 N Leroy Fenton MI 48430
• Flint: 303 S Saginaw St Flint MI 48502
• Flint: 4313 Corunna Rd Flint MI 48532
• Flushing: 6429 W Pierson Rd Flushing MI 48433
• Flushing: 228 W Main St Flushing MI 48433
• Freeland: 130 Main St Freeland MI 48623
• Gaylord: 400 W Main St Gaylord MI 49735
• Grand Blanc: 1426 Genesys Parkway Grand Blanc MI 48439
• Grand Blanc: 6170 S Saginaw St Grand Blanc MI 48439
• Holly: 4048 Grange Hall Rd Holly MI 48442
• Lapeer: 814 S Main St Suite 2 Lapeer MI 48446
• Mundy Twp: 2455 Hill Rd Mundy Twp MI 48507
• Oakland: 22 E Glass Rd Oakland MI 48462
• Oakland: 3073 S Baldwin Rd Oakland MI 48359
• Oakland: 4834 N Adams Rd Oakland MI 48306
• Port Huron: 1011 24th Str Port Huron MI 48060
• Roscommon: 503 North Fifth St Roscommon MI 48653
• Saginaw: 5655 State St Saginaw MI 48603
• Saginaw: 4880 Gratiot Suite A-1 Saginaw MI 48603
• Sebewaing: 614 S Unionville Rd Sebewaing MI 48759
• Tawas: 309 Lake Street Tawas MI 48763
• West Branch: 2750 Cook Rd West Branch MI 48661

The Congregation Detroit (Detroit; NEW in 2024!)

The Congregation is a unique café and bar located in a beautifully converted historic church. They offer a delightful combination of coffee, cocktails, and light food, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The venue is known for its serene ambiance, combining historical charm with a modern twist, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a cup of coffee or a casual meal.

The Congregation is situated at 9321 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206. You can contact them at (313) 307-5518 for more details or visit their website.

Toarmina’s Pizza (Dearborn; NEW in 2024!)

Toarmina’s Pizza, known for their commitment to quality and generous toppings, is a popular choice for pizza lovers. They offer a wide range of pizza options, including unique local flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Toarmina’s Pizza is located at 23922 Cherry Hill Dearborn MI 48124. You can visit their website for more information.

Westpoint Bar-B-Que (Dearborn; NEW in 2024!)

Westpoint Bar-B-Que is a go-to destination for barbecue enthusiasts. They specialize in a variety of barbecued meats, offering a mouth-watering selection that captures the essence of classic American barbecue.

This establishment is located at 25301 Michigan Ave Dearborn MI 48124. You can call them at (313) 278-3311 or visit their website for details.

Wing Heaven & Moo Gobble Burgers (Grand Rapids)

Wing Heaven shares a location with Moo Gobble Burgers. You can get chicken, seafood, burgers and more from this singular location. They offer more than 20 signature sauces, including a unique raspberry pepper sauce.

You can find this restaurant at 2020 Eastern Ave SE Grand Rapids, MI 49507 or get details on their website.

Yum Village (Detroit; NEW in 2024!)

Yum Village offers an intriguing culinary experience with its Afro-Caribbean inspired menu. The menu includes dishes like Jerk Chicken, Suya Fried Chicken, and vegan options like Akara – a black-eyed pea fritter. Accompanying sides such as Jollof Rice, Turmeric Rice, and Sweet & Spicy Plantain add to the rich and diverse flavor profile. Yum Village also emphasizes food justice, aiming to make good food affordable and accessible to all, and sources a significant portion of its ingredients locally from Detroit and its surrounding areas.

Although Yum Village has multiple locations, the only restaurant that accepts EBT can be found at 6500 Woodward Ave Detroit MI 84202. For further details, you can visit their website.

Relief Recap

In 2024, 70 restaurants accept EBT in Michigan through the Restaurant Meals Program. This program enables senior citizens, individuals facing homelessness, and those with disabilities to utilize their EBT cards for purchasing freshly prepared, hot meals from local eateries. Our article explores the eligibility criteria for this initiative and provides a comprehensive directory of Michigan restaurants that accept SNAP transactions. If you meet the requirements, be sure to visit one of the restaurants featured in our list to enjoy 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.