Free Food and Deals During the Government Shutdown

There is a great group of foodies that are helping out their community during the Government Shutdown. We rounded up the best food and drink deals in the Virginia, DC, and Maryland areas to help those affected by the current government shutdown. No one should ever go hungry.

Have an addition to this list? Drop us a line and let us know.

Restaurants

  • #ChefsForFeds / World Central Kitchen – DC, soon nationwide
    Chef José Andrés and his nonprofit organization is feeding furloughed federal employees in DC and beyond while the shutdown lasts.

  • Pay It Furloughed – DC
    Thousands have donated to buy local craft brews for for federal employees impacted by the government shutdown. 

  • Toki UndergroundDC
    $5 Furlough Classic Ramen. Tuesday-Thursday lunch only. For gov. employees with ID while shutdown lasts.

  • District Doughnut – DC
    Federal employees can receive a free cup of coffee with any purchase.

  • Baked by Yael – DC
    Federal employees and contractors can receive free coffee for the duration of the government shutdown, while supplies last. The bakery is also offering a free bagel sandwich or small soup each weekday while supplies last to essential Zoo employees

  • Good Stuff Eatery – Capitol Hill Location
    Any federal employee that shows their work ID at the Capitol Hill location can receive a free snack fry and fountain soda with the purchase of a burger.

  • Milk Bar – DC
    While the government is shut down, make your day a little sweeter with a free coffee or a cereal milk soft serve. Offer only with valid government ID.

  • Hula Girl Truck – DC
    Free burger and a brew for furloughed government employees during Happy Hour M-F (4:30-7) at the Bar. Please mention this special prior to ordering.

  • Rí Rá Georgetown – DC
    Free shepherds pie to any federal government employee with a valid government ID/badge.

  • Lucky Buns – DC
    If you have a valid government ID card come snag a free beer, side dish or dessert.

  • Pizzeria Paradiso – DC
    For all government employees and contractors. Must show federal ID or business card (for contractors). Pick any two appetizers and a 12” pizza for $30.

  • Taco Bamba – Chinatown Location
    Enjoy one complimentary traditional taco. Just show your government ID at the register.

  • El Centro – DC
    For all those with government ID, they’re offering a complimentary guacamole or house margarita.

  • District Taco – DC
    Receive 25% off your order until the end of the shut down.

  • Equinox – DC
    Federal workers can enjoy 20% off your bill for during the government shutdown with a valid ID.

  • Gregory’s Coffee – DC
    FREE 12oz coffee drinks to government employees who show their ID during the shutdown.

  • Macaroni Grill – Multiple locations in USA
    Offering all furloughed federal government employees a free Mom’s Ricotta Meatballs + Spaghetti. Valid 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

  • Paisano’s Pizza – Multiple locations in USA
    Receive a free pizza for all federal government employees during the duration of the shutdown.

  • Idle Hands Bread Company – Richmond
    Offering a free loaf of bread per week until the shutdown is over. Just show some proof you’re affected by the shutdown.

  • Balo Kitchen – Annandale
    Offering 20% off for all federal employees during the government shutdown (with gov’t ID). Mon-Thurs, 11-5pm.

  • La Cote D’Or Cafe – Arlington
    Offering a three-course meal for only $22 to all federal government employees.

  • Sexi-Mexi Burritos – Winchester
    Receive 25% off for furloughed government employees.

  • Laurel Springs Farm – Marion
    If you’re a government employee that has been furloughed, come by the store with your ID for a free 1 pound package of ground beef to feed your family. 

  • Field and Main – Marshall
    Get a free burger and beer during happy hour. Bring your government ID, from 5:00 – 7:00pm, Thursday – Monday.

  • Happy Creek Coffee & Tea – The Plains, Purcellville, Front Royal
    Offering a 50% discount on all coffee and tea based drinks to those on furlough by the shutdown. Show your federal government or government contractor ID.

  • Ejji Ramen – Bethesda
    Offering free rice bowls to government employees with valid ID.

  • Caffe Amouri – Vienna
    Enjoy a free 12oz coffee until the shutdown ends.

  • Locke Store – Millwood
    Have a cup of hot soup and half a sandwich for free. Just bring in your government ID.

  • South Block Juice Co. – Locations in NOVA and DC
    Enjoy a regular smoothie for free, every Friday only at ALL locations with a valid government ID.

  • DC Parks and Recreation – DC
    Free lunch on Saturdays 12-1pm for kids 18 and under at various rec centers.

Food Banks/NONprofits

  • Blue Ridge Area Food Bank – Multiple locations
    One of all the many food banks in Virginia that people can access. Find nourishing food for anyone in need at any time

  • Bread for the City – DC
    If you’re a District of Columbia resident and are a furloughed federal worker or federal contractor, you can visit their NW or SE Centers for a five day supply of groceries. 

  • Food & Friends – DC
    Any furloughed federal employee battling a serious illness, or caring for a loved one with a serious illness, may qualify for free meal or grocery deliveries.

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