In a notable development for both the fast-food and cryptocurrency sectors, Steak ‘n Shake has announced its intention to expand into El Salvador. This move was revealed during the Bitcoin Histórico event held in San Salvador this past Wednesday and Thursday.
The iconic restaurant chain initially began accepting Bitcoin in the United States on May 16, 2025. To commemorate this pivotal moment, Steak ‘n Shake introduced the “Bitcoin Steakburger” as a special menu item, signaling its commitment to the crypto community.
Bitcoin Friendly Expansion
Steak ‘n Shake first teased its foray into cryptocurrency with a post on X (formerly Twitter) on May 9, 2025, highlighting a forthcoming Bitcoin payment option. The new payment system officially went live at all US locations shortly thereafter. Dan Edwards, the company’s Chief Operations Officer, articulated their vision to have BTC as a payment option in all stores worldwide, reinforcing their identity as a BTC-friendly merchant.
El Salvador is a great country
We were honored to be in Bitcoin Country serving Beef Tallow Fries and handing out Grass-Fed and Wagyu Beef Tallow Cooking Oil.
The beginning of a beautiful friendship https://t.co/VIyzL9OT3M
— Steak ‘n Shake (@SteaknShake) November 15, 2025
Sales Spike And Analysts’ Take
Post-launch reports indicate that Steak ‘n Shake experienced an impressive 11% increase in same-store sales for the second quarter, followed by an even more remarkable 15% rise in the third quarter. Analysts have suggested that the acceptance of cryptocurrency played a role in this growth, although establishing a direct correlation remains challenging. Comparatively, Steak ‘n Shake outperformed industry giants such as McDonald’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, and Starbucks during this period.
On social media, the chain acknowledged its success, attributing it to the backing of the Bitcoin community.
We thank Bitcoiners for helping us achieve the best same-store sales performance in our category!
And, believe it or not, this quarter is registering an even higher growth rate! pic.twitter.com/s2wuTwUPkb
— Steak ‘n Shake (@SteaknShake) November 14, 2025
However, when the chain launched a poll asking followers if they should accept Ether as a payment option, the response was nothing short of explosive. Out of nearly 48,800 respondents, approximately 53% voted in favor, stirring debate among Bitcoin enthusiasts, some of whom felt this move could alienate its core customer base. One critic, going by the name Ron Sovereignty Swanson, notably expressed his disdain, calling Ether “centralized trash” that could prompt him to sever ties with the brand.
In response to the backlash, the company promptly canceled the survey and tweeted, “Poll canceled. We stand with Bitcoiners. You have made your choice known. Who even suggested this? I’m back at my desk.”
Community Influence On Corporate Decisions
This swift reversal illustrates the significant impact that dedicated customer groups can have on corporate decision-making. Steak ‘n Shake’s hasty withdrawal from the Ether conversation signals an acute awareness of its Bitcoin-supporting clientele, who are instrumental in shaping its identity within the cryptocurrency landscape.
Such actions have undeniably enhanced Steak ‘n Shake’s standing among cryptocurrency aficionados, making it a subject of discussion within the broader Bitcoin community online.
Featured image from Steak N Shake, chart from TradingView
