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U.S. fast-food chain Steak ’n Shake announced on the 15th that it will expand into El Salvador, the first country in the world to adopt Bitcoin (BTC) as legal tender. The decision follows the company’s growing commitment to crypto-based payments and strong performance tied to its Bitcoin strategy in the United States.
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
Why Steak ’n Shake Is Entering El Salvador
The company confirmed its expansion plans after participating in “Bitcoin Historico”, an event held in San Salvador focused on the country’s Bitcoin-driven economic model. Steak ’n Shake said the move highlights its enthusiasm for operating in an environment where Bitcoin plays a central role in commerce.
The company first introduced Bitcoin payments across all U.S. locations on May 16, 2025, becoming one of the earliest nationwide restaurant chains to do so. The rollout featured themed menu items, including the limited-edition “Bitcoin Steakburger.”
COO Dan Edwards says Steak ’n Shake ultimately aims to offer Bitcoin payments at every location worldwide. He posted on X on the 15th:
“El Salvador is an incredible country. This marks the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”
The decision to enter El Salvador was heavily influenced by the success of Bitcoin payments in U.S. stores.
Sales Impact After Bitcoin Integration
- Q2 2025: Same-store sales rose 11% after BTC payments launched in May
- Q3 2025: Same-store sales increased another 15% quarter-over-quarter, outperforming competitors such as McDonald’s and Starbucks
Analysts attribute this growth directly to customers’ rapid adoption of Bitcoin payments, which exceeded company expectations.
Given El Salvador’s favorable regulatory environment for crypto payments, Steak ’n Shake views the country as a natural next step in its Bitcoin-driven expansion strategy.
Participation in Bitcoin Historico allowed the company to strengthen ties with local Bitcoin communities and align itself with the country’s long-term economic policy.
Bitcoin Loyalty, Treasury Use, and the ETH Backlash
Before announcing its expansion into El Salvador, the company explored adding Ethereum (ETH) as an additional payment option. On October 11, 2025, Steak ’n Shake launched a public poll on X asking customers whether it should accept ETH. Among 48,815 respondents, 53% voted in favor.
However, the proposal triggered intense criticism from Bitcoin maximalists. One prominent critic wrote:
“ETH is centralized trash. If you add it, you’ll lose every Bitcoin customer, including me.”
Within hours, the company reversed course:
“The poll is canceled. We stand with Bitcoiners.”
Steak ’n Shake has also integrated Bitcoin into its treasury strategy and customer rewards program, signaling a long-term commitment to BTC beyond payments alone.
With El Salvador expansion underway, the company is positioning itself as the world’s most Bitcoin-aligned fast-food brand.
