Chicago Restaurants Step Up to Feed SNAP Recipients During Benefit Pause As Chicago faces a temporary pause in SNAP funding, several local restaurants and community partners are stepping in to make sure no one goes hungry. From free hot meals to generous discounts and special programs, here’s a list of local spots providing support to those in need. CheSa’s Bistro and Bar – Avondale 3235 W. Addison St. CheSa’s Bistro and Bar is offering free meals every Tuesday from 5–7 p.m. to anyone affected by the SNAP funding pause. Kale My Name – Albany Park 3300 W. Montrose Ave. Known for its plant-based comfort food, Kale My Name is serving free full meals daily from 3–5 p.m. to individuals and families in need. Lou Malnati’s – Citywide Through Nov. 16, Lou Malnati’s is giving out $10 coupons to food-insecure Chicagoans as part of a partnership with Lawndale Community Church. Manny’s Delicatessen – South Loop 1141 S. Jefferson St. Starting Monday, the iconic Manny’s Deli will provide free meals to SNAP recipients looking for a hot and hearty lunch. October Cafe – Norwood Park 6046 N. Avondale Ave. This cozy, fall-themed café is offering free meals daily from 3–5 p.m. throughout November. Guests can enjoy tater tots, lemonade, and a PB&J sandwich — available for dine-in or takeout. Paulie Gee’s Logan Square – Logan Square 2651 N. Milwaukee Ave. Families whose SNAP benefits are on hold can bring their children in for a free cheese pizza — a warm gesture from one of Chicago’s favorite pizza joints. Penelope’s Vegan Taqueria – Andersonville, River North & Pilsen 5204 N. Clark St. | 230 W. Chicago Ave. | 1165 W. 18th St. Penelope’s Vegan Taqueria is providing free vegan meals for pregnant women and children until SNAP and WIC benefits are restored. Meals are available Monday–Thursday, 3–5 p.m., with the following options: •For kids: Fried potato and veggie tacos or quesadillas with rice, beans, corn, and agua fresca •For expecting mothers: Taco or enchilada meal with agua fresca Each recipient must be present to receive a meal. The Stopalong – Logan Square & Wicker Park 2210 N. California Ave. | 1812 N. Milwaukee Ave. The Stopalong is giving away a free 16-inch pizza to SNAP recipients at both of its Chicago locations. Soul Food Lounge – North Lawndale 3804 W. 16th St. Soul Food Lounge is serving free meals every Tuesday from noon–3 p.m. to help feed those most affected by the SNAP pause. Spoken Café – Ravenswood 1812 W. Montrose Ave. Spoken Café hosts a weekly community supper every Monday from 6–8 p.m. The meal is pay-what-you-can, and no one will be turned away. All proceeds support the local nonprofit Common Pantry. Watta Potato – Austin 5202 W. Washington Blvd. To celebrate its second anniversary, Watta Potato will provide free meals all day on November 8 (noon–9 p.m.). Everyone is welcome — and those who can pay are encouraged to do so to support the small business. Gopuff – Citywide Delivery SNAP recipients can receive $50 in total credits toward eligible grocery items through November 30. To claim: •Add your SNAP EBT card to your Gopuff account •Use promo code SNAPRELIEF1 (Nov. 1–15) or SNAPRELIEF2 (Nov. 16–30) for $25 off and free delivery each time A Community That Cares From local delis to vegan taquerias, Chicago’s food scene continues to prove its heart is as big as its appetite. These efforts highlight the city’s spirit of solidarity — neighbors helping neighbors when it matters most. If you know any other restaurant please message me and I’ll update the list.