As Utah faces the ongoing federal government shutdown, several local restaurants across the state are extending a helping hand — offering free meals to federal workers, families, and anyone struggling to make ends meet.
The effort comes after the Utah Food Bank warned it could not fill the gap left by potential disruptions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). State officials pledged $4 million in aid, and a federal court has since ordered the continuation of food stamp payments. Still, uncertainty persists for the more than 33,000 federal workers and 169,000 Utah residents who rely on SNAP each month.
Here’s a list of Utah businesses offering free food — and how you can support their efforts.
Mumbai House
Salt Lake City – 2731 E. Parleys Way
Park City – 890 Main St., Suite #5115
Tooele – 778 N. Main St.
At Mumbai House, families in need can enjoy a free hot meal of chicken tikka masala or vegetable coconut kurma with rice and naan. Founder Dilpreet Toor says the initiative — launched Oct. 26 — has already provided nearly 200 meals.
“It’s humanity,” Toor said. “We’re all here for food … if you don’t get food, you die.”
He added that community support makes it possible: “Stop fighting about politics. Your community cares about you.”
To help, purchase a Mumbai House gift card and share it with someone in need.
Something Wicked Coffee
Clearfield – 772 E. 700 South
This local café (formerly Bean’s Coffee) offers a free “Snap Breakfast” daily from 8 a.m. to noon (closed Mondays). No proof or questions asked. The offer began Nov. 1 for anyone at risk of losing SNAP benefits.
Yummy’s Korean BBQ & Sushi
Orem – 360 S. State Street, Building C, Suite #102
Saratoga Springs – 282 Crossroads Blvd.
Yummy’s Korean BBQ & Sushi is providing free fried rice at both locations starting in November. “We hope to give you some hope and light during these times,” owners said in a social media post.
Sweet Hazel & Co. Bistro & Bakeshop
Salt Lake City – 1000 S. Main St., Suite #100
At this vegan restaurant, customers can buy a “Feed it Forward Meal” for someone in need. The receipt goes on a shelf for anyone to redeem — no questions asked.
Owner Felicia Hanson said over 150 meals have been donated so far, with one donor contributing 100. “We want people to feel loved and accepted,” she said.
Doki Doki
Salt Lake City – 249 E. 400 South
Doki Doki, known for its Japanese-style desserts, is giving away 15 free treats per day to anyone affected by the shutdown. Donations from patrons help increase the daily number.
Sugar House Coffee
Salt Lake City – 2011 S. 1100 East
Sugar House Coffee launched a “community gift card” fund that anyone can contribute to or use. “No one should go without a warm meal,” their post reads.
Girls Who Smash
A popular Salt Lake Valley food truck, Girls Who Smash is offering free loaded fries and water to anyone in need, starting Nov. 2. The truck plans to give away 60 meals weekly, setting up near major bus routes for accessibility.
Those wishing to help can buy an extra meal when ordering.
Bhansa Ghar
Salt Lake City – 250 W. 2100 South, Suite G
The veteran-owned Indian restaurant Bhansa Ghar is serving free meals to struggling families during the shutdown and will offer free meals to veterans and their families on Veterans Day (Nov. 11).
Mark Miller Subaru
South Salt Lake – 3535 S. State St.
Sandy – 10920 S. State St.
Mark Miller Subaru is providing free boxed lunches at both dealerships all month long. “If you’re hungry, come by — no questions asked,” the company announced.
Bevvy’s Soda Shop
Payson – 607 S. 100 West
The first 100 customers can receive a free biscuits-and-gravy breakfast by saying “Bevvy Breakfast.” The offer began Nov. 1 for those impacted by SNAP delays or the shutdown.
Food Justice Coalition & Square Kitchen Eatery
Salt Lake City – 2435 S. State St.
The nonprofit Food Justice Coalition teamed up with Square Kitchen Eatery to launch “The Shared Plate Project.”
They provide free nutrient-dense meals through Nov. 30. Recipients can choose from several local chefs and pick up food Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.
“Hunger should never be weaponized,” organizers said.
Himalayan Flavor
Logan – 130 N. Main St.
This Nepali-Indian restaurant is offering one free meal daily to families in need in Logan and across its Idaho locations.
“If anyone in our community is struggling due to the shutdown, Himalayan Flavor stands with you,” the owners wrote.
If you’re a business owner offering free food to those in need, contact [email protected] to be added to this growing list.
