Restaurants That Accept EBT: Where To Use EBT At Restaurants

When you first started learning about EBT benefits, did you assume they only worked at grocery stores? As you dig deeper into state programs, you will discover something game-changing: in certain places, you can use EBT at restaurants. That changes everything for people who can’t cook at home – the elderly, those with disabilities, or anyone experiencing housing instability. We’ve rounded up a list of states that participate in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP), along with restaurants that accept EBT.  

What can you expect? Helpful highlights from each area — and a reminder that availability depends on whether your state participates in the RMP. 

1. What Is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)? 

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a special part of the SNAP/food stamps that allows eligible individuals to use their SNAP benefits at approved restaurants.  

It’s created for the elderly (age 60+), disabled, homeless, or the spouse of someone eligible under these categories. 

Recipients must live in a state that has adopted the program to use RMP benefits. For example, California has implemented the RMP statewide, allowing eligible CalFresh (California’s SNAP program) recipients to use their benefits at participating restaurants. RMP would allow eligible residents to purchase hot, prepared meals at authorized restaurants using their EBT card.  

Restaurants interested in joining the RMP must operate in a participating state, be approved by the state, and be authorized by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to accept SNAP payments.

2. States Where You Can Use EBT at Restaurants 

Some states offer the ability to use EBT at select restaurants through the RMP. Not every state participates, but we’ve put together a list of places where this program is available.  

As of May 2025, these are the states participating in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP):

• Arizona
• California
• Illinois
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• New York
• Rhode Island
• Virginia

The following states do not participate in the RMP now: 

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arkansas
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

Read more: How To Get A Free EBT Smart Phone (Food Stamps)

3. Fast Food Restaurants That Accept EBT Near You 

There are some fast food chains that everyone knows and visits – the usual spots that pop up in every city. We started digging through official listings, community forums, and personal stories to find the places people actually enjoy and rely on, especially when using EBT through the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). Here are some fast food restaurants that accept EBT.  

Keep in mind, availability depends on whether your state participates in the RMP. 

Burger King

With dozens of locations across the country, Burger King is known for its signature flame-grilled Whopper. The menu’s straightforward: burgers, fries, onion rings, and shakes, all to satisfy fast food cravings.

Carl’s Jr.

This chain thrives on delivering thick, juicy burgers and crispy chicken sandwiches. Breakfast fans find plenty to love, too, with egg sandwiches and hash browns. 

Del Taco 

It’s where you can enjoy a crunchy taco alongside a burger, or grab a loaded burrito with a side of fries. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, with many locations bustling with families and young people. 

Domino’s Pizza 

Domino’s is the go-to for fast, reliable pizza with an ever-growing menu that goes beyond just pies. The crusts come in several styles, and the toppings range from classic pepperoni to more adventurous choices. 

Jack In The Box 

Jack In The Box is appealing to a broad crowd with its late-night hours and diverse menu. It’s the kind of place where you might find tacos sitting alongside burgers and breakfast all day. 

McDonald’s 

McDonald’s is the giant in the world of fast food, instantly recognizable and always convenient. It’s a place for all ages, a quick stop to grab a meal across locations.  

Subway 

Subway is a popular stop for lunch breaks and on-the-go meals. Subway makes fast food feel a bit fresher.  

4. How to Find Restaurants That Accept EBT Near You 

Here are some ways that help you find participating restaurants that accept EBT in your area: 

Check if your state offers the Restaurant Meals Program. Make sure your state participates in the RMP. The RMP is only available in certain states (check the list above), and even within those states, it may only be active in specific counties or cities. 

Use the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator. It will help you find places that accept EBT. Look through the list for restaurants or food vendors that are part of the RMP. 

Visit your state or local SNAP office website. Some state or county SNAP offices publish specific lists or maps of “restaurants that accept EBT near me” under RMP. If you can’t find the info online, try calling your local SNAP office for help. 

Call restaurants and ask directly. If you have a few local restaurants in mind, give them a quick call and ask if they accept EBT under the Restaurant Meals Program. (Even if a chain participates in RMP, not all locations do. Asking directly is a fast way to get accurate information.) 

Check apps and community resources. There are mobile apps, community forums, nonprofit directories, and local Facebook groups that help you find EBT-accepting locations. These are helpful if you’re new to the program or moving to a different area.

>>> Read more: Does Dollar Tree Take EBT? What To Know Before You Shop

5. Which Restaurants Accept EBT? List of Restaurants That Accept EBT Near You 

Based on official listings and firsthand reports, we’ve mentioned some select restaurants in some counties/cities across states currently participating in the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). A full list or a link to search the complete directory is also included. 

Just a reminder, availability depends on whether your state participates in the RMP. This information is subject to change, so be sure to check with your state or local SNAP office regularly or contact the restaurant directly before placing an order. 

5.1. List of Participating Restaurants in Arizona 

Check the full list of restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program in Arizona 

5.2. List of Participating Restaurants in California 

Check the full list of restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program in California

5.3. List of Participating Restaurants in Illinois

Check the full list of restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program in Illinois

5.4. List of Participating Restaurants in Maryland 

Check the full list of restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program in Maryland 

5.5. List of Participating Restaurants in Massachusetts 

Check the full list of restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program in Massachusetts

5.6. List of Participating Restaurants in Michigan 

Check the full list of restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program in Michigan

5.7. List of Participating Restaurants in New York 

Check the full list of restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program in New York.

5.8. List of Participating Restaurants in Rhode Island 

Check the full list of restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program in Rhode Island.

5.9. List of Participating Restaurants in Virginia 

Check the full list of restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program in Virginia.

Conclusion 

When the Restaurant Meals Program is active in your state, it can be a lifeline. Check with your local SNAP office or use the tools we’ve linked to explore what’s available in your area.