What Restaurants Accept EBT in Virginia?

Did you realize that some restaurants accept EBT in Virginia? 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 Virginia’s Restaurant Meals Program

The Restaurant Meals Program is part of the federal food stamps law, but states choose whether to offer it. States like California and Arizona have run large versions of it for years.

Virginia’s version, the Virginia Restaurant Meals Program (VRMP), officially launched on March 10, 2023. The Virginia Department of Social Services has been steadily approving new restaurants since then, with participation concentrated so far in the Richmond and Hampton Roads areas, though that’s expected to keep growing.

Who Is Eligible for Virginia’s Restaurant Meals Program?

Every person on your SNAP case needs to meet at least one of these:

• Be experiencing homelessness, or be the spouse of someone who is; OR
• Be 60 or older, or the spouse of someone who is; OR
• Have a disability, or be the spouse of someone who does; OR

How Does the Restaurant Meals Program Work in Virginia?

If you qualify, your caseworker activates the option on your account. If you believe you’re eligible but don’t see access to it, reach out to your caseworker to check.

Once it’s active, here’s what to know:

• Swipe your EBT card at the restaurant, just like you would at the grocery store
• You won’t be charged sales tax or a tip
• Delivery orders don’t qualify, only in-person purchases
• You’ll get a receipt showing your remaining balance after each purchase

If your balance won’t cover the whole bill, tell the cashier before you swipe so they can split the payment between your card and another method.

These Restaurants Accept EBT in Virginia

There are several restaurants that accept EBT in Virginia through the Restaurant Meals Program. Here’s an searchable table.

Relief Recap

Virginia’s Restaurant Meals Program has been growing steadily since its 2023 launch, giving eligible seniors, disabled individuals, and people experiencing homelessness a way to get hot meals with their SNAP benefits. Check the list above for restaurants near you, and check back often since new locations are being added regularly.