According to reports, Steak ‘n Shake has publicly signaled plans to expand into El Salvador after taking part in the Bitcoin Histórico event in San Salvador on Wednesday and Thursday this week.
The fast-food chain, which began taking Bitcoin in the US on May 16, 2025, has been highlighting the move as part of its public image. The company also rolled out a themed menu item called the “Bitcoin Steakburger” to mark the payment launch.
Bitcoin Friendly Expansion
Based on reports, the chain first hinted at a crypto push with an X post on May 9, 2025, saying a crypto option was coming soon. The payment option went live at all its US locations on May 16, 2025, and the company’s Chief Operations Officer, Dan Edwards, told reporters they aim to offer BTC at all locations worldwide.
The messaging has been clear: Steak ‘n Shake wants to be known as a merchant that welcomes BTC payments.
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
Reports have disclosed that same-store sales rose 11% in the company’s second quarter after the rollout. Later, the chain reported a 15% increase in same-store sales for the third quarter.
Analysts who looked at the numbers said the crypto acceptance likely helped drive the uptick, though direct cause and effect are hard to prove. The company’s third-quarter growth was compared to big names in fast food; Steak ‘n Shake outpaced McDonald’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, and Starbucks for that period, according to the report.
Social Poll, Backlash, And A Reversal
Steak ‘n Shake stirred a strong reaction when it asked followers whether it should add Ether as a payment option. About 48,800 people weighed in, and roughly 53% voted yes. The poll drew sharp comments from some Bitcoin supporters.
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
One critic, identified as Ron Sovereignty Swanson, wrote, “ETH is just centralized trash. Bitcoin represents freedom. If you do this, you’ll lose all your Bitcoiner customers, including me.”
Later on October 11, the company canceled the poll and posted: “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
Based on reports, the reversal shows how vocal customer groups can shape business choices. Steak ‘n Shake’s quick retreat from the Ether idea suggested that it values the support of Bitcoin-focused patrons.
That support appears to have helped the brand within crypto circles, and the chain’s public stance has made it a talking point among Bitcoin fans online.
Featured image from Steak N Shake, chart from TradingView
