The answer might surprise you! Nearly 5,000 restaurants across California now accept SNAP food benefits for hot, ready-to-eat meals.
If you’re like me, this news might catch you off guard. For years, we’ve been told that SNAP benefits could only be used to buy groceries. However, a unique provision in food stamp law—the Restaurant Meals Program—allows states to enable certain individuals to use their benefits at restaurants!
In this post, we’ll dive into the details of the Restaurant Meals Program, who qualifies, and provide a list of restaurants that accept EBT in California. Don’t forget to check out our list of 1,000 EBT discounts too!
About the Restaurant Meals Program
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a specific part of federal SNAP law that permits certain EBT recipients to purchase hot meals using their benefits. However, there’s a catch: each state decides whether to implement this program.
California introduced its RMP in the early 2000s, beginning in San Francisco County before gradually expanding statewide. By 2021, the program covered the entire state, making California’s RMP the most extensive and robust in the country.
Who Can Use EBT for Restaurant Meals in California?
The CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program is available only to individuals who are elderly, disabled, or homeless, as it’s designed to support those unable to safely prepare meals at home.
To qualify, you must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Be 60 years or older, OR
- Be disabled and receiving disability benefits, OR
- Be homeless, OR
- Be the spouse of someone who qualifies under one of the above criteria.
It’s important to note that every member of your household must meet these conditions to use the program. If even one member doesn’t qualify, you won’t be eligible for the RMP.
How to Use EBT for Restaurant Meals
If you qualify, there’s no need to apply separately for this program. Your caseworker should automatically activate this feature on your account. If your EBT transaction is declined and you believe you’re eligible, contact your caseworker for assistance.
Once activated, using your EBT card at participating restaurants is similar to using it at a grocery store. It covers the cost of hot meals. Let the cashier know you’re using CalFresh benefits so they don’t charge you sales or meal taxes.
If you’re unsure, ask the cashier which menu items are eligible for EBT payment. Remember, you cannot use EBT benefits to purchase alcohol or other restricted items.
Why Does the List of Participating Restaurants Change?
The list of restaurants accepting EBT frequently changes for several reasons. Restaurants may lose their ability to process EBT payments if owners fail to renew their SNAP license or violate program rules.
To keep up with these changes, we update this article regularly. Be sure to check back often for the latest information.
Bay Area Chain Restaurants that Accept EBT
The Bay Area is home to a diverse selection of restaurants participating in the CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program. From bustling urban centers to quieter suburban neighborhoods, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy hot, ready-to-eat meals using your EBT card. Whether you’re craving fast food, casual dining, or ethnic cuisine, the Bay Area offers something for everyone. .
To find the exact addresses of participating locations, you’ll need to download our comprehensive list.
Burger King
Burger King is one of the largest and most recognized fast-food chains in the world, offering a wide variety of flame-grilled burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, and breakfast options. Known for their iconic Whopper sandwich, Burger King also caters to a diverse range of tastes with vegetarian options like the Impossible Whopper, as well as desserts, shakes, and kids’ meals.
In the Bay Area, there are 46 Burger King locations that accept EBT. From Alameda to San Jose, these restaurants provide convenient access to their menu for those who qualify. For exact addresses and locations near you, be sure to check our comprehensive list to find the Burger King closest to your area.
Carl’s Jr.
Carl’s Jr. is a fast-food chain known for its charbroiled burgers, hand-breaded chicken sandwiches, and delicious breakfast options. Offering a menu that includes hearty Angus beef burgers, crisp salads, and sweet milkshakes, Carl’s Jr. caters to a wide range of tastes with bold flavors and satisfying meals.
The Bay Area is home to 14 Carl’s Jr. locations that accept EBT. From Oakland to San Jose, these restaurants offer convenient access to their menu.
Chico’s Pizza
Chico’s Pizza is a local favorite, serving up delicious pizzas with a variety of toppings, hearty pasta dishes, and refreshing beverages. Known for their warm atmosphere and freshly prepared food, Chico’s Pizza is the perfect spot for a casual meal.
There are 2 Chico’s Pizza locations in the Bay Area that accept EBT, both offering easy access to their crowd-pleasing menu.
Del Taco
Del Taco is a popular fast-food chain known for its fusion of Mexican-inspired dishes and classic American favorites. From freshly made tacos, burritos, and quesadillas to burgers, fries, and shakes, Del Taco offers something for everyone.
There is one Del Taco restaurant in the Bay Area that takes food benefits. It’s in Pittsburg.
Denny’s Restaurant
Denny’s is a popular diner-style restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day long. Known for their Grand Slam breakfast, hearty burgers, and homestyle dinners, Denny’s offers comfort food at affordable prices in a friendly environment.
The Bay Area has 1 Denny’s location that accepts EBT. It’s in Milpitas. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a classic meal, be sure to check our list for the exact address of this Denny’s location.
El Pollo Loco
El Pollo Loco specializes in fire-grilled chicken marinated in citrus and spices, served with a variety of sides like rice, beans, and fresh salsas. Their menu also includes burritos, tacos, and salads, making it a go-to spot for Mexican-inspired meals with a healthy twist.
There are 22 El Pollo Loco locations in the Bay Area that accept EBT, ensuring convenient access to their flavorful and wholesome dishes.
Jack in the Box
Jack in the Box is a fast-food chain offering a diverse menu that ranges from burgers and fries to tacos, salads, and breakfast options. Known for their late-night menu and variety of snack options, Jack in the Box is a great choice for quick and tasty meals.
In the Bay Area, 27 Jack in the Box locations accept EBT. These locations make it easy to grab a satisfying meal when you need it.
KFC / Taco Bell
KFC / Taco Bell dual restaurants offer the best of both worlds: crispy fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and biscuits from KFC, alongside tacos, burritos, and quesadillas from Taco Bell. These locations are perfect for satisfying cravings for either fried chicken or Mexican-inspired meals.
The Bay Area has 4 KFC / Taco Bell locations that accept EBT.
McDonald’s
McDonald’s is a global fast-food chain famous for its Big Macs, chicken nuggets, fries, and breakfast options like Egg McMuffins. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, McDonald’s offers something for everyone, including Happy Meals for kids.
With 25 McDonald’s locations in the Bay Area accepting EBT, you’re never far from enjoying their iconic menu items. Check our list to find the McDonald’s location closest to you.
Papa John’s
Papa John’s is a pizza chain known for its fresh, quality ingredients and signature garlic dipping sauce. Their menu includes a variety of specialty pizzas, wings, and desserts, making it a favorite for pizza lovers everywhere.
There are 5 Papa John’s locations in the Bay Area that accept EBT.
Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut is a well-known chain offering a variety of pizzas, pasta, wings, and desserts. Whether you prefer a classic pepperoni pizza or their famous stuffed crust, Pizza Hut provides options for every taste.
The Bay Area is home to 7 Pizza Hut locations that accept EBT.
Popeye’s
Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen serves up Southern-inspired comfort food, including their famous fried chicken, flaky biscuits, and Cajun-style sides like red beans and rice. Known for their bold flavors, Popeye’s is a favorite for those craving hearty meals.
There are 12 Popeye’s locations in the Bay Area that accept EBT.
Round Table Pizza
Round Table Pizza is a popular pizza chain offering handcrafted pizzas made with premium ingredients, as well as salads, wings, and appetizers. Known for their flavorful crusts and generous toppings, Round Table is a favorite for pizza enthusiasts.
The Bay Area has 2 Round Table Pizza locations that accept EBT.
Subway
Subway is a globally recognized chain specializing in customizable sandwiches and salads. With a focus on fresh ingredients, Subway allows customers to create meals exactly the way they like them, from classic subs to veggie-packed salads.
There are 28 Subway locations in the Bay Area that accept EBT, making it easy to grab a fresh and healthy meal.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell is a fast-food chain offering a wide variety of Mexican-inspired items, including tacos, burritos, nachos, and quesadillas. With value menu options and customizable items, Taco Bell is a popular choice for affordable and flavorful meals.
The Bay Area boasts 54 Taco Bell locations that accept EBT, ensuring you can satisfy your cravings conveniently.
Vibe Bistro
Vibe Bistro offers a unique dining experience with a variety of fresh, flavorful dishes inspired by global cuisines. From hearty entrees to light snacks, Vibe Bistro focuses on quality and a welcoming atmosphere.
There are 3 Vibe Bistro locations in the Bay Area that accept EBT.
Wingstop
Wingstop specializes in bold and flavorful chicken wings, available in a variety of sauces and rubs. Their menu also includes crispy fries, dips, and refreshing beverages, making Wingstop a favorite for wing lovers everywhere.
The Bay Area has 8 Wingstop locations that accept EBT.
Local Favorites that Accept EBT
The Bay Area is full of amazing local restaurants, and many of them accept EBT. From classic comfort food to unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else, these spots truly capture the diversity and creativity of the region’s food scene.
Check out our list of local favorites that accept EBT and find a new go-to spot near you. Whether you’re craving pizza, burgers, or something totally different, there’s something for everyone!
Here’s a list of the local favorites that can accept your benefits. Be sure to check our list for the exact addresses of these participating locations!
Pizza Places
- Abe’s Pizza
- Big Apple Pizza N Grill
- Chico’s Pizza
- Irving Pizza
- Milan Pizza
- Moe’s Pizza Co
- Mustafio’s Pizza
- New York Pizza
- New York Pizza and Kabob
- Pizza Guys
- Pizza Hub
- The Supreme Pizza
- Yummy Pizza
Cafes & Eateries
- Academy Cafe
- Amausaan Uji Matcha
- Baby Bean Cafe at E 14th Eatery
- Brown’s
- Bubble Cups
- Cafe La Rosa
- Earl of Sandwich
- Eateries
- Emos Cafe and Deli
- Golden Bear Cafe
- Golden City Inn
- Tiffanys Cafe
- Z Soul Cafe
International & Fusion Cuisine
- Aramex Restaurant
- Boug Cali
- Dragon River Restaurant
- Halal Burgers and More
- Himalayan Pizza and Momo
- King Lee Chinese Restaurant
- Las Panchitas
- Le Paradis
- So Pho So Good
- South North Dragon Chinese Restaurant
- Taisan Huakee Restaurant
- Taste of Fusion Kitchen
- Teranga
Tacquerias
- Gabby’s Taqueria
- Taqueria El Torero
- Taqueria Los Gallos Express (2 locations)
Other Favorites
- Burger Time
- Kabob Express
- Sizzle Spot Restaurant
- Straw Hat Pizza
- Sweet Chinito
- The Den
- The Soup
- TL Kitchen
- Togo’s Sandwiches
- YoYo Treats
- Zesty SF
Relief Recap
The Bay Area is rich with restaurants that accept EBT, from well-loved fast-food chains like Taco Bell, McDonald’s, and Burger King to local gems like Irving Pizza, Boug Cali, and Golden Bear Cafe. Whether you’re craving a quick bite, a fresh sandwich, or a hearty meal, there’s something here for everyone.
If you’re looking for more details, check out our full list with exact addresses to help you find a location near you. Remember, dining options may vary, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm. With so many choices across the Bay Area, you’ll never have to look far for a delicious meal that fits your needs.