Did you know that thousands of California restaurants accept EBT for hot meals? In the Riverside, San Bernardino, and Inland Empire areas, there are nearly 800 options! From major chains to small local food trucks, there are all sorts of incredible restaurants where you can use your food benefits.
For years, SNAP benefits were limited to groceries, but the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) offers a valuable extension for eligible users. This program ensures that individuals without access to a kitchen or the ability to prepare food can still enjoy a hot, nutritious meal.
Here’s everything you need to know about the program, who qualifies, and how to find restaurants in the Inland Empire that accept EBT.
About the Restaurant Meals Program
The Restaurant Meals Program is a federal initiative designed to support those who face challenges preparing meals at home. It allows eligible EBT users to purchase hot, prepared meals at participating restaurants. While the program is optional for states, California embraced it years ago and expanded it statewide in 2021.
Thanks to this program, residents of Riverside, San Bernardino, and surrounding areas now have access to hundreds of restaurants that accept EBT for ready-to-eat meals.
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’re eligible, your EBT account will automatically include this feature—there’s no need to apply separately. If your card is declined at a participating location and you believe you qualify, contact your caseworker for assistance.
Using your EBT card is straightforward. Let the cashier know you’re paying with CalFresh benefits to avoid being charged sales or meal taxes. If you’re unsure about which items are covered, ask the cashier or review the menu for EBT-eligible options. Keep in mind that alcohol and other restricted items cannot be purchased with EBT benefits.
Chain Restaurants that Accept EBT
The Inland Empire is home to a wide range of restaurants that accept EBT through the Restaurant Meals Program. Whether you’re in the mood for fast food, casual dining, or a quick snack, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. From popular chains like McDonald’s, Subway, and Taco Bell to local favorites, there’s something for everyone in the Riverside and San Bernardino areas.
To make planning even easier, check out our full list with exact addresses of participating locations. With so many choices across the Inland Empire, a hot and delicious meal is always within reach!
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 Inland Empire:
- El Pollo Loco: 37 locations
- Archibald’s Drive Thru: 3 locations
- Burger King: 11 locations
- Subway: 55 locations
- Carl’s Jr.: 36 locations
- McDonald’s: 67 locations
- Del Taco: 105 locations
- Denny’s: 13 locations
- Jack in the Box: 113 locations
- Domino’s Pizza: 13 locations
- KFC: 44 locations (4 shared with Taco Bell)
- Miguel’s Jr.: 14 locations
- Pieology Pizzeria: 5 locations
- Pizza Hut: 60 locations
- Popeyes: 24 locations
- Rally’s: 4 locations
- Taco Bell: 51 locations (4 shared with KFC)
- Tam’s Burgers: 7 locations
- The Habit Burger Grill: 12 locations
- Waba Grill: 3 locations
- Wienerschnitzel: 3 locations
- Wendy’s: 33 locations
- Wingstop: 4 locations
- Yoshinoya: 3 locations
More Local Favorites that Accept EBT
The Central Valley is home to a wide array of incredible local restaurants, many of which now accept EBT. From timeless comfort food to diverse dishes inspired by the region’s rich agricultural roots and cultural influences, these spots showcase the vibrant and unique food scene of the area.
Explore our curated list of local favorites that accept EBT and discover a new go-to dining spot. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, pizza, or something entirely unique, you’ll find plenty of delicious and budget-friendly options to enjoy.
Here’s a selection of local favorites where you can use your benefits. Don’t forget to check our complete list for the exact addresses of participating locations!
BBQ and Southern Food
- J & J BBQ & Fish (Pomona)
- Jack’s Bar-B-Q (Lake Elsinore)
- Southern Belle Cafe (Cathedral City)
Burgers and Grills
- Ez Burger (Upland)
- Farmer Boys (Victorville, Hesperia)
- Fuego 360 (Corona)
- Grill and Roll (Victorville)
- Habachihana Grill Montclair (Montclair)
- Hercules Burgers (Montclair)
- La Villa Burgers (Banning)
- Legends Burgers 1 (Upland, Rancho Cucamonga)
- Perris Burgers (Moreno Valley)
- Sliderz & Mo’ (Barstow)
- Steves Jr Burgers (Hemet)
- Tom’s Famous Family Restaurant (Hesperia)
Cafes and Donut Shops
- Grand Slam Donuts (Rancho Cucamonga)
- Mikel’s Donuts (Bloomington)
- The Original Muffin Message (Rancho Cucamonga)
Fast-Casual Chains
- Charley Philly Steaks (Palm Desert, Rialto)
- Firehouse Subs (Ontario)
- Mr Fries Man (Ontario)
- Papa Johns (Indio)
Health and Nutrition
- Frontline Nutrition (Moreno Valley)
- Juice it Up (Chino)
Mexican Restaurants
- Birrieria Xolos (Perris, Riverside)
- Don Beto’s Mexican Food (Victorville)
- Monica’s Tacos (Hesperia)
- Taco’s Marleni (Riverside)
Pizza Restaurants
- Pisa Pizza (Moreno Valley)
- Pizza Rev (Corona)
- Red Maple Pizza (Moreno)
- Tans Pizza (Desert Hot Springs)
- University Pizza Company (Riverside)
Seafood
- Fishbone (Chino)
- The Fish Hut Market (Hemet)
Specialty and Other Favorites
- Yoba (Ontario)
- 5 Star Club (Yucaipa)
- Black Bear Diner (Murrieta)
- Cathay Chinese Food (Winchester)
- Chef Tanya’s Kitchen (Palm Desert, Palm Springs)
- Chop Stop (Ontario)
- Della Maes Kitchen (Moreno Valley)
- Let’s Feast Premium Catering (Yucca Valley)
- Louisiana Famous Fried Chicken (Rialto)
- PHO DAO (Murrieta)
- Poly Avenue (Riverside)
- Sunway (Colton)
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!
