This Fast-Food Chain’s Secret Bitcoin Strategy Is Driving a 15% Revenue Surge

• Steak ‘n Shake expands to El Salvador, adopting Bitcoin payments after reporting an 11% sales increase in US locations.

• A new rewards program offers $5 in Bitcoin for purchasing specific meal items to drive adoption.

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The Steak ‘n Shake restaurant chain has confirmed plans to establish operations in El Salvador. This move represents an international expansion for the company founded in 1934. El Salvador adopted Bitcoin as legal tender in 2021. The company’s decision is part of a corporate strategy aimed at integrating crypto assets into its global payment options.

The brand recently participated in the Bitcoin Histórico event in San Salvador. During the gathering, the firm set up a temporary point of sale in Gerardo Barrios Plaza. They offered products from their traditional menu, including fries cooked with grass-fed beef tallow and their signature Steakburgers.

The company’s official X account expressed positive expectations about starting operations in the Central American nation. The description of El Salvador as “Bitcoin Country” appeared in the digital communication. The firm underlined its intention to integrate progressively within the local digital economy.

Steak ‘n Shake began accepting Bitcoin as a payment method in United States locations starting in May 2025. Dan Edwards, Chief Operating Officer, set a goal for cryptocurrency adoption across all worldwide franchises.

Sales Growth and BTC Rewards Program

Internal data from Steak ‘n Shake reflects an 11% increase in sales during the second quarter. This growth was registered specifically in locations that enabled Bitcoin payments. Management attributes this result directly to the incorporation of the cryptocurrency.

The chain currently operates more than 400 establishments within the United States. Its public positioning is oriented towards being a fast-food brand open to digital assets.

A collaborative agreement with the Fold rewards app forms part of this initiative. The alliance allows customers who purchase a “Bitcoin Meal” or a “Bitcoin Steakburger” to receive $5 in Bitcoin. This program seeks to incentivize everyday use of the cryptocurrency among consumers.

Third-quarter financial results showed a 15% sales growth compared to the previous period. This performance surpassed that reported by competitors like McDonald’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, and Starbucks.

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