If you receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, you may be wondering, can you use an EBT card at steakhouses? The short answer is usually no, but there are a few important exceptions.
Most steakhouses serve hot, prepared meals, which are not eligible for purchase with standard SNAP benefits. However, if you qualify for your state’s Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) and the steakhouse participates, you may be able to pay with your EBT card.
This guide explains when EBT can be used at steakhouses, who qualifies, and how to find participating restaurants.
Quick Answer
Most steakhouses do not accept EBT.
However, you may be able to use your EBT card if:
- You qualify for your state’s Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).
- The steakhouse participates in the program.
Participation varies by state and by individual restaurant.
Why Don’t Most Steakhouses Accept EBT?
SNAP benefits are intended to help eligible households purchase groceries that can be prepared and eaten at home.
Steakhouses primarily serve:
- Steak dinners
- Prime rib
- Grilled chicken
- Seafood
- Burgers
- Salads
- Mashed potatoes
- Hot side dishes
- Desserts
- Beverages
Since these meals are cooked and served ready to eat, they generally cannot be purchased with standard SNAP benefits.
What Is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP)?
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is a special SNAP option available in certain states.
It allows eligible SNAP recipients to purchase prepared meals from approved restaurants.
The program is generally available to:
- Adults aged 60 or older
- Individuals with qualifying disabilities
- People experiencing homelessness
- Eligible spouses of qualified participants
Only restaurants approved by the state can accept EBT under this program.
States That Offer the Restaurant Meals Program
As of 2026, these states operate a Restaurant Meals Program:
- Arizona
- California
- Illinois (selected counties)
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Virginia
Even in these states, not every restaurant participates, including steakhouses.
Do Any Steakhouses Accept EBT?
Possibly, but only under limited circumstances.
Some locally owned restaurants and selected chain restaurants participating in the Restaurant Meals Program may accept EBT.
Most well-known steakhouse chains generally do not accept EBT nationwide.
Examples include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- LongHorn Steakhouse
- Outback Steakhouse
- Ruth’s Chris Steak House
- Saltgrass Steak House
- Logan’s Roadhouse
A location could participate in the Restaurant Meals Program if approved by the state, but this is uncommon.
Can You Use EBT at Texas Roadhouse?
Generally, no.
Texas Roadhouse does not typically accept EBT because it serves hot, prepared meals.
If a location participates in the Restaurant Meals Program and you qualify, there may be exceptions, but they are rare.
Can You Use EBT at Outback Steakhouse?
Most Outback Steakhouse restaurants do not accept EBT.
Participation would only be possible through an approved Restaurant Meals Program location.
Can You Use EBT at LongHorn Steakhouse?
No, LongHorn Steakhouse locations generally do not accept EBT.
How to Check if a Steakhouse Accepts EBT
Before dining out, you can:
- Call the restaurant directly.
- Ask whether it participates in the Restaurant Meals Program.
- Visit your state’s SNAP or Restaurant Meals Program website.
- Look for EBT acceptance signs near the entrance or checkout.
Checking ahead can save time and prevent payment issues.
Restaurants That May Accept EBT
If you qualify for the Restaurant Meals Program, participating locations of these restaurants may accept EBT:
- Subway
- Burger King
- Taco Bell
- Jack in the Box
- KFC
- Pizza Hut
- Domino’s (select locations)
- Papa John’s (select locations)
- Denny’s
- El Pollo Loco
- Carl’s Jr.
Participation depends on the state and the individual restaurant.
Can You Buy Raw Steak With EBT?
Yes.
SNAP benefits can be used to buy eligible grocery items, including:
- Fresh steak
- Beef
- Chicken
- Pork
- Seafood
- Frozen meat
- Ground beef
As long as the food is intended for home preparation, it is generally SNAP eligible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use an EBT card at steakhouses?
Usually no. Most steakhouses do not accept EBT because they serve prepared meals. Only approved Restaurant Meals Program locations may accept EBT from eligible customers.
Does Texas Roadhouse take EBT?
Generally, no. Most Texas Roadhouse restaurants do not accept EBT.
Can I use SNAP benefits for restaurant meals?
Only if you qualify for your state’s Restaurant Meals Program and the restaurant participates.
Can I buy steak with EBT?
Yes. Fresh, frozen, and packaged steak sold at grocery stores is generally eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Which restaurants accept EBT?
Some participating restaurants in Restaurant Meals Program states include Subway, Burger King, Taco Bell, KFC, Denny’s, Pizza Hut, and other approved locations.
Tips for SNAP Users
Before visiting a steakhouse:
- Confirm whether the restaurant accepts EBT.
- Verify your Restaurant Meals Program eligibility.
- Check your EBT balance.
- Bring another payment method if needed.
- Contact the restaurant ahead of time to confirm its current policy.
Final Thoughts
So, can you use an EBT card at steakhouses? In most cases, no. Standard SNAP benefits cannot be used to pay for hot, prepared meals served at steakhouses.
If you qualify for the Restaurant Meals Program, you may be able to use your EBT card at an approved participating restaurant, but this is relatively uncommon for traditional steakhouse chains.
If your goal is to purchase steak with SNAP benefits, grocery stores are the best option, as fresh and frozen meat products are generally eligible for purchase with an EBT card.
