Steak ‘n Shake is expanding into El Salvador after strong sales growth linked to its recent decision to accept Bitcoin payments in its restaurants.
Key Takeaways
- The company is entering El Salvador after seeing major sales jumps tied to its Bitcoin payment rollout.
- Steak ‘n Shake reported an 11 percent increase in same store sales in the second quarter and a 15 percent increase in the third quarter.
- The chain canceled an earlier plan to consider Ether payments after backlash from Bitcoin supporters.
- Executives say El Salvador will serve as the company’s starting point for growth across Latin America.
What Happened?
Steak ‘n Shake announced that it will open its first restaurant in El Salvador after participating in the Bitcoin Historico event in San Salvador. The company said it was inspired by the nation’s strong support for cryptocurrency and the momentum created by accepting Bitcoin at all of its restaurants in the United States.
The chain described El Salvador as Bitcoin Country and said it wants the location to become its gateway to Latin America.
BITCOIN HISTÓRICO | Steak ‘n Shake To Open in El Salvador
— The Bitcoin Office (@bitcoinofficesv) November 15, 2025
“Steak ‘n Shake, one of the most iconic burger chains in the United States, plans to open a restaurant in El Salvador as the first step in its expansion into Latin America.” pic.twitter.com/ECmyeCT8RF
Growing Expansion Linked to Bitcoin Payments
Steak ‘n Shake’s latest move builds on its decision in May to begin accepting Bitcoin across all locations in the United States. The company also introduced a special Bitcoin Steakburger and other themed items to mark the rollout. According to executives, this shift toward Bitcoin has reshaped the company’s brand and attracted new customers.
The impact was visible quickly.
- Same store sales increased by 11 percent in the second quarter.
- Another 15 percent jump followed in the third quarter.
- Analysts said the increases likely came from Bitcoin adoption.
With these results, Steak ‘n Shake has become one of the most recognized food chains engaging with the crypto community. Supporters say that easy, everyday transactions are important for driving mainstream Bitcoin use, and the company’s strategy has turned it into a showcase example.
Community Reactions and ETH Payment Controversy
While Steak ‘n Shake’s Bitcoin rollout was celebrated widely, the company faced controversy in October after asking followers on social media whether it should accept Ether as another payment option. The poll gathered 48,815 votes, with 53 percent supporting the idea. However, it sparked pushback from Bitcoin users who argued that Bitcoin should remain the focus.
One user wrote, “ETH is centralized garbage. Bitcoin is freedom,” warning the company that expanding beyond Bitcoin would upset loyal customers.
Within hours, Steak ‘n Shake pulled back the suggestion.
“Poll suspended. Our allegiance is with Bitcoiners… Who even allowed this” the chain posted.
Later that same day, the chain added, “Poll canceled. We stand with Bitcoiners. You have made your choice known. Who even suggested this? I am back at my desk.”
The company confirmed that it would stick to Bitcoin payments only. It also announced that it had created a Bitcoin treasury reserve to store and hold all Bitcoin received from customers.
Why El Salvador Was Chosen?
During the Bitcoin Historico event, Chief Operations Officer Dan Edwards explained why the company selected El Salvador for its first Latin American restaurant. He said that the country is innovating and leading the way with its national Bitcoin strategy. Edwards added that Steak ‘n Shake respects the work being done by President Bukele and wants to grow alongside the country’s crypto friendly economy.
Dan Edwards said:
Industry observers note that the country is attracting several major crypto companies. Tether, one of the largest firms in the digital asset sector, is also moving operations into El Salvador. Many believe the arrival of Steak ‘n Shake could encourage other global brands to follow.
CoinLaw’s Takeaway
In my experience, it is rare to see a traditional restaurant chain adopt Bitcoin so aggressively and actually show measurable growth as a result. I found the sales numbers especially impressive because they show real customer behavior, not just hype. Choosing El Salvador makes sense. The country has created an environment where crypto friendly businesses feel welcome, and I think this move will push more companies to consider expanding there. For readers watching how Bitcoin enters everyday life, this is one of the clearest examples of real adoption happening in plain sight.
