Thousands of restaurants across California now accept EBT for hot meals, and the San Diego Metro Area is home to a wide variety of options for eligible CalFresh users. From quick-service favorites to local spots offering fresh and hearty meals, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a ready-to-eat dish without worrying about your budget.
Traditionally, SNAP benefits were restricted to groceries, but the Restaurant Meals Program has made it possible for qualifying individuals to use their benefits at participating restaurants. This program is especially helpful for those who may not have access to a kitchen or are unable to prepare their own meals.
Here’s an overview of how the program operates, who is eligible, and where to find restaurants in San Diego that accept EBT for hot, prepared meals.
What You Should Know About the Restaurant Meals Program
The Restaurant Meals Program is a federal initiative designed to assist people with unique challenges in preparing food at home. It allows certain EBT users to use their benefits for meals at restaurants, giving them access to warm and convenient food options. California has embraced this program, expanding it statewide in 2021 to make it accessible to residents in every region, including San Diego.
Who Can Use EBT for Restaurant Meals?
The program is designed for individuals who face obstacles in preparing meals. To qualify, you or a member of your household must meet at least one of the following requirements:
- Be 60 years of age or older.
- Receive disability benefits.
- Be experiencing homelessness.
- Be the spouse of someone who meets one of these conditions.
For households, it’s important that everyone in the household meets the eligibility criteria. If even one person does not qualify, the household cannot use EBT for restaurant meals.
How to Use EBT at Participating Restaurants
If you meet the program’s requirements, your EBT account will include this feature automatically. There’s no separate application process. However, if your card is declined at a participating location and you believe you qualify, it’s a good idea to reach out to your caseworker for clarification.
Using your EBT card at a restaurant is straightforward. When you place your order, let the cashier know you are using CalFresh benefits. This ensures you aren’t charged sales or meal taxes. If you’re unsure whether an item is covered, feel free to ask the cashier for guidance. Keep in mind that EBT benefits cannot be used for alcohol or other restricted purchases.
Chain Restaurants that Accept EBT
San Diego offers a diverse selection of restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program. Options range from popular fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Subway to local eateries known for serving up delicious and satisfying meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a more filling dish, you’ll find plenty of choices across the metro area.
To find the exact addresses of participating locations, you’ll need to download our comprehensive list.
Burger King
With 10 locations in the San Diego Metro Area, Burger King offers a variety of flame-grilled burgers, crispy fries, and other classic fast-food favorites. It’s a convenient option for a quick, satisfying meal that can be purchased using your EBT benefits through the Restaurant Meals Program.
Carl’s Jr.
With 62 locations across the region, Carl’s Jr. has one of the largest footprints in the San Diego area for EBT-eligible dining. From their signature charbroiled burgers to hearty breakfast options, this chain is a go-to spot for hot, ready-to-eat meals served fresh.
Del Taco
Offering a mix of Mexican-inspired dishes and American classics, Del Taco has 16 locations in San Diego that accept EBT. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, burritos, or a fresh salad, Del Taco provides delicious options at an affordable price.
Denny’s
With 15 participating locations, Denny’s makes it easy to enjoy a hearty meal any time of day. Known for their all-day breakfast and comfort food favorites, this diner-style chain is a great choice for families and individuals alike.
Domino’s Pizza
At 3 locations in the San Diego area, Domino’s Pizza lets you use your EBT benefits for hot, freshly made pizza, breadsticks, and other favorites. It’s perfect for satisfying your pizza cravings with convenience and ease.
El Pollo Loco
With 1 participating location, El Pollo Loco brings its famous citrus-marinated flame-grilled chicken to San Diego’s EBT-eligible dining options. Pair it with sides like rice, beans, or tortillas for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Everytable
Everytable offers 2 locations in the San Diego Metro Area, combining fresh, nutritious meals with affordability. Their rotating menu includes wholesome dishes designed to suit a variety of tastes, making it a standout choice for EBT users.
Giant Pizza King
Known for its generous portions and satisfying flavors, Giant Pizza King has 7 locations across San Diego. Whether you’re craving a classic pizza or something more adventurous, this local favorite is ready to serve you a hot meal through the Restaurant Meals Program.
Jack in the Box
With 91 locations across the San Diego Metro Area, Jack in the Box offers a wide variety of fast-food favorites, from burgers and tacos to breakfast items and salads. Its extensive menu and accessibility make it a great option for EBT users looking for a hot, ready-to-eat meal.
Little Caesars Pizza
Little Caesars Pizza has 2 participating locations in San Diego, serving their famous Hot-N-Ready pizzas and other affordable menu items. It’s a convenient choice for a quick, delicious meal you can enjoy with your EBT benefits.
McDonald’s
McDonald’s features 35 locations in the area where EBT is accepted, offering classic menu items like Big Macs, fries, and breakfast sandwiches. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or grabbing a meal on the go, McDonald’s provides affordable options for eligible CalFresh users.
Papa John’s Pizza
With 1 location in San Diego accepting EBT, Papa John’s Pizza delivers its signature hand-tossed pizzas, breadsticks, and other favorites. It’s a reliable choice for a freshly made meal when you’re craving pizza.
Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut boasts 26 locations in San Diego where EBT can be used to purchase hot, freshly prepared pizzas, pasta, and more. With a wide range of menu options, it’s a popular spot for families and individuals alike.
Popeyes
Popeyes has 17 locations in the San Diego Metro Area that accept EBT, offering their famous fried chicken, biscuits, and southern-inspired sides. It’s a go-to destination for hearty and flavorful meals made fresh.
Rally’s
Rally’s features 7 locations in San Diego where EBT is accepted, serving up bold flavors with their signature burgers, loaded fries, and shakes. Known for fast service and satisfying portions, it’s a great choice for a hot and filling meal.
KFC
With 37 locations across the San Diego Metro Area, KFC is a favorite for its crispy fried chicken and comforting sides. Five of these locations are shared with Taco Bell, and one is shared with Long John Silver, giving you a variety of menu options under one roof.
Subway
Subway boasts 68 locations in San Diego where EBT is accepted, offering fresh, customizable sandwiches and salads. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, Subway provides healthy, made-to-order options that cater to every taste.
Taco Bell
Taco Bell offers 23 participating locations in San Diego, with five of these shared with KFC. Known for its affordable and flavorful Mexican-inspired menu, Taco Bell is a convenient choice for EBT users seeking tacos, burritos, or other quick bites.
Wendy’s
With 21 locations in the San Diego area accepting EBT, Wendy’s serves up a variety of fresh, made-to-order burgers, salads, and their famous Frosty desserts. It’s a great spot for a hot and satisfying meal.
Wienerschnitzel
Wienerschnitzel has 3 participating locations in San Diego, offering classic hot dogs, chili dogs, and other comfort food favorites. It’s a perfect place to grab a quick, tasty meal using your EBT benefits.
Wingstop
Wingstop features 5 locations in the San Diego Metro Area that accept EBT. Known for their flavorful wings and variety of sauces, Wingstop is a top pick for those craving a bold and satisfying meal.
More Local Favorites that Accept EBT
The San Diego Metro Area is home to a fantastic array of local restaurants, many of which now accept EBT. From comforting classics to international dishes inspired by the city’s diverse communities, these dining spots highlight the rich and vibrant food scene San Diego is known for.
Check out our curated list of local favorites that accept EBT and find your next go-to spot. Whether you’re craving tacos, pizza, or something totally unique, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to satisfy your appetite.
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!
American Cuisine
- Cali BBQ
- Cali Stack Burgers & Grill
- Dreams Cuisine
- Fuelthycells Seamoss, LLC
- Honey Donuts
- Time Out Cafe and Tradewinds Cafe
Asian Cuisine
- Noodles & Company
- Teriyaki Madness (2 locations)
- Yoshinoya Beef Bowl
Bakeries, Cafes, and Delis
- BB’s Deli
- Craveology Cafe at the Fleet Science Center
- Craft Catering Food To Go
- Jardin Grill
Jamaican and African Cuisine
- Ackee Tree the Real Jamaican Cuisine
- Gate of Damascus
- Nigeria Breeze Restaurant
- Sahara Taste of the Middle East
Mexican and Latin Cuisine
- Cetinas Taco Shop
- El Toro Taco Shop
- Fruiteria Don Chamango Produce
- Fruity Loco
- ISW Tacos LLC
- La Central Market
- La Moreana Taco Shop
- Los Pinos Taco Shop
- Marlens Taco Shop
- Nancys Taco Shop
- Sombrero (3 locations)
- Taqueria Don Chamango
- Tamales Jovita
Pizza
- Baja Giant Pizza
- Bambinos Pizza & Deli 3
- Botania Familia Pizzaria
- Concepto Pizza Co
- Pizzero Grill
- Rancho Giant Pizza
- Tony’s Giant Pizzeria & Grill
Relief Recap
The San Diego Metro Area boasts a variety of restaurants that accept EBT, ranging from popular fast-food chains like Taco Bell, McDonald’s, and Burger King to local gems that showcase the city’s unique culinary character. Whether you’re craving a quick snack, a hearty meal, or something light and fresh, you’re sure to find an option that hits the spot.
For added convenience, take a look at our full list of participating locations with exact addresses to help you plan your next meal. Keep in mind that availability may vary, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm. With so many options across the San Diego Metro Area, enjoying a delicious, ready-to-eat meal has never been easier!
