Did you know that thousands of California restaurants accept EBT for hot meals? In the Central Valley area, there are hundreds of options from Fresno and Bakersfield to smaller towns across the region.
For years, SNAP benefits were strictly for groceries, but the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) changes that for those who qualify for this special extension. This program ensures that people who may not have access to a kitchen or the ability to cook can still enjoy a nutritious meal.
Here’s what you need to know about how the program works, who can use it, and how to find participating restaurants in Central Valley.
About the Restaurant Meals Program
The Restaurant Meals Program is a federal initiative that allows people with specific needs to use their EBT card for hot, prepared meals. While the program is optional for states, California adopted it years ago and expanded it statewide in 2021.
Thanks to this program, residents in the Central Valley now have access to hundreds of restaurants where they can use their benefits.
Who Qualifies for Restaurant Meals with EBT?
This program is designed for people who face challenges in preparing food at home. To qualify, you or someone in your household 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 meets one of these criteria
It’s also important to note that everyone in your household must qualify to use this program. If even one person doesn’t meet these requirements, your household won’t be eligible.
How to Use Your EBT Card at Restaurants
If you meet the qualifications, your EBT account will automatically include this feature—no need to apply separately. However, if your card is declined at a participating restaurant and you believe you qualify, contact your caseworker to confirm your eligibility.
Using your EBT card at restaurants is simple. Just let the cashier know you’re using CalFresh benefits to ensure you’re not charged sales or meal taxes. If you’re unsure about what’s covered, ask the cashier or check the menu for EBT-eligible items. Remember, alcohol and other restricted items cannot be purchased with EBT.
Chain Restaurants that Accept EBT
The Central Valley is home to a diverse range of restaurants that accept EBT through the Restaurant Meals Program, offering plenty of choices for hot, ready-to-eat meals. Whether you’re craving fast food, casual dining, or a quick snack, there’s an option to suit every taste and need. These locations are spread throughout the region, making it simple to find a convenient spot wherever you are.
To find the exact addresses of participating locations, you’ll need to download our comprehensive list.
Here’s the list of popular chain restaurants that accept EBT in the Central Valley:
- Burger King: 64 restaurants
- Carl’s Jr.: 44 restaurants
- Del Taco: 16 restaurants
- Denny’s: 16 restaurants
- El Pollo Loco: 16 restaurants
- Frosty King: 3 locations
- Frosty Queen: 4 locations
- Jack in the Box: 23 locations
- KFC: 12 locations
- Little Caesars: 1 location
- McDonald’s: 42 restaurants
- Papa John’s: 4 locations
- Pieology Pizzeria: 8 locations
- Pizza Guys: 4 locations
- Pizza Hut: 41 locations
- Popeyes: 27 locations
- Rally’s: 10 locations
- Subway: 97 locations
- Taco Bell: 22 locations
- Wendy’s: 6 locations
- Wienerschnitzel: 1 location
- Wingstop: 1 location
More Local Favorites that Accept EBT
The Central Valley is filled with amazing local restaurants, and many of them now accept EBT. From comforting classics to diverse flavors that reflect the rich agricultural and cultural heritage of the region, these dining spots highlight the vibrant food scene that makes the Central Valley special.
Check out our curated list of local favorites that accept EBT and find your new go-to spot. Whether you’re craving tacos, pizza, or something entirely unique, there’s no shortage of delicious and affordable options to explore!
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!
Asian Cuisine
- ABC Pho Dera in Madera
- Cathay Express in Sacramento
- Houng La (2 locations) in Fresno
- Khorasan Kabob and Gyro in Carmichael
- Lucky Express in Sacramento
- Noodles & Company in Citrus Heights
- Royal Kabob & Gyro in Elk Grove
- Teriyaki Madness in Bakersfield
Bakeries and Cafes
- Montero’s Bakery in Los Banos
- Midtown Crepene & Cafe in Stockton
- The Sandwich Spot (2 locations) in Sacramento
BBQ and Soul Food
- Lady G’s Soul Spot Corp in Chowchilla
Burgers and Fast Food
- Burger Time in Arvin
- Flip n Shake in Sacramento
- Kings Drive In in Bakersfield
- Pops Drive In (2) in Bakersfield
- Primo Burgers in California City
- Sam’s Burger in Bakersfield
- Skip’s Fish & Chicken in Sacramento
- Sno-White Drive In (2) in Modesto and Wasco
- The Burger Shack in Fresno
- Young’s Drive In in Bakersfield
Mexican Cuisine
- El Toro Tortilleria and Deli Inc. in Fresno
- Fresco Mexican Grill in Bakersfield
- Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant in Bakersfield
- La Cocina Michacona in Modesto
- Los Mexicanos Frutas y Antojos in Fresno
- Sabores de mi Tierra in Madera
- Taco Express in Madera
- Taqueria Las Aves in Chowchilla
Pizza and Italian
- Al-Said Pizza N Kabob in Sacramento
- Chicago’s Pizza With A Twist in Sacramento
- Halal West Pizza in Carmichael
- Kam’s Pizza & Ice Cream in Fresno
- Metro Pizza and Deli in Stockton
- Mountain Mike’s Pizza (2 locations) in Stockton
- New York Pizza & Wings in Rancho Cordova
- Pizza Twist (2 locations) in Sacramento
- Pizzarev (2 locations) in Bakersfield
- Superb Pizza in Carmichael
- Village Pizzeria and Grill in Sacramento
Sandwiches and Subs
- Firehouse Subs in Sacramento
- J Spot Kitchen (2 locations) in Sacramento
- Mr. Pickles Sandwich Shop in Carmichael
- Long Sandwiches in Sacramento
Seafood
- Yummy Crabbylicious in Delano
Halal Cuisine
- Falafel Corner in Sacramento
- Gyro and Shawarma Grill in Rancho Cordova
- Gyro Genie in Sacramento
- Halal Bitez in Carmichael
Grocery and Deli
- AFG Market in Sacramento
- Emry Foods Inc. in Carmichael
- Mr. & Mrs. Creo’s You Buy We Buy in California City
- Vallarta Supermarket in Madera
Relief Recap
The Central Valley offers a wide range of restaurants that accept EBT, including popular fast-food chains like Taco Bell, McDonald’s, and Burger King, as well as local favorites that reflect the diverse flavors of cities like Fresno, Bakersfield, Stockton, and Modesto. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick burger, a hearty meal, or a freshly made sandwich, there’s something to satisfy every craving throughout the region.
To help make planning easier, we’ve compiled a full list with exact addresses of participating locations near you. Remember, dining options may vary by location, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm availability. With so many choices across the Central Valley, enjoying a delicious and convenient meal is simple and hassle-free!
