Steak ‘n Shake, a well-known American restaurant chain owned by Biglari Holdings, has taken a notable step toward embracing digital currency by sponsoring the Bitcoin 2025 Conference in Las Vegas. During the event, the company shared updates on its recent integration of Bitcoin as a payment option, using the platform to reinforce its growing connection with the crypto community.
The company began accepting Bitcoin payments on May 16, utilizing the Bitcoin Lightning Network for fast and efficient transactions. The rollout of this feature was accompanied by widespread attention, particularly among attendees of the conference, who witnessed the chain’s Chief Operations Officer, Dan Edwards, provide insights into the initiative.
Strong Transaction Volumes and Reduced Costs
According to Edwards, the debut of Bitcoin payments had an immediate impact, with the restaurant accounting for one out of every 500 Bitcoin transactions globally on the launch day. He emphasized that the move was not a marketing tactic but rather a strategic decision to treat Bitcoin as a legitimate payment method, comparable to any other globally recognized option.
Edwards also pointed out that the adoption of Bitcoin has yielded measurable benefits for the business. He noted that the digital currency offers advantages such as faster transaction processing and significant savings on processing fees—cutting them in half compared to traditional payment systems. These factors, in his view, position Bitcoin as beneficial to both the company and its customers, as well as to the broader crypto ecosystem.
Following the implementation of Bitcoin payments, the company observed a sustained increase in sales, which Edwards attributed directly to the new payment capability.
Social Media and Community Engagement Fuel Momentum
The brand’s involvement with the cryptocurrency community did not stop at payments. Steak ‘n Shake actively engaged with crypto supporters through social media, gaining further traction thanks to endorsements from high-profile figures in the Bitcoin space. One social media post drew attention to the company’s choice of payment processors, with a comment suggesting it should adopt Block Inc.’s Square terminals. The post received a response from Bitcoin advocate and Block CEO Jack Dorsey, further amplifying the company’s exposure.
Steak ‘n Shake has also positioned itself to appeal to various other affinity groups in recent months, including Tesla enthusiasts, supporters of political figures such as Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and advocates of health-focused movements. One recent change to the menu—switching to beef tallow for cooking French fries—earned public praise and even a visit from Kennedy himself.
Bitcoin-Themed Menu and Future Tech Aspirations
To commemorate its Bitcoin payment launch, the restaurant introduced a series of limited-edition, Bitcoin-themed menu items during the Las Vegas conference. These offerings included the Bitcoin Burger, Bitcoin Milkshake, and a Super-Sized Bitcoin Meal. The company also hinted at further innovations, revealing that a blockchain-based menu is currently in development.
Looking ahead, Steak ‘n Shake appears eager to continue integrating technology into its operations. Edwards suggested that the company’s next phase may involve the use of artificial intelligence, including the deployment of cyber chefs, autonomous systems, and AI-driven tools. He called for engineers to join the effort, indicating that the company remains committed to technological advancement beyond its current crypto engagement.
By aligning itself with cryptocurrency, innovative cooking practices, and emerging technology, Steak ‘n Shake is crafting a multi-faceted strategy that could position it as a leader among legacy food service brands navigating the digital era.