Bitcoin fast food payments are going mainstream. Starting May 16, U.S. fast food chain Steak ’n Shake will begin accepting Bitcoin in all 628 of its restaurants. The company announced this move in a social media post signed “Steaktoshi,” aiming to bring crypto payments to over 100 million customers.
This marks a major milestone in Bitcoin’s real-world adoption and sets a new benchmark for the restaurant industry.
Steak ’n Shake Leads Bitcoin Fast Food Payments
While other brands have run test programs, Bitcoin fast food payments at national scale are still rare. Steak ’n Shake’s full integration shows growing demand for crypto options in casual dining.
Unlike pilot programs or regional launches, this rollout covers every restaurant under the brand — a bold move toward mass adoption.
Bitcoin Restaurant Payments Are Gaining Ground
This isn’t the first time we’ve seen Bitcoin restaurant payments in action. Back in 2013, a Subway franchise accepted Bitcoin. In 2022, Chipotle enabled payments with over 90 cryptocurrencies, including Ethereum and Solana, using Flexa.
Other brands followed. Burger King supported crypto gift cards and direct BTC transactions in countries like Germany and Venezuela. In El Salvador, Pizza Hut started accepting Bitcoin right after the country legalized it.
Even former U.S. President Donald Trump used Bitcoin to pay for burgers during his 2024 campaign.
How Bitcoin Payment in Fast Food Became a Reality
Steak ’n Shake’s integration of Bitcoin payment in fast food shows that crypto is no longer a fringe experiment. By accepting BTC at all locations, the chain provides a real-world use case that could inspire others.
Although the company hasn’t named the payment processor yet, QR-code-based systems are expected. This could make checkout faster and attract younger customers familiar with crypto wallets.
The move also supports decentralization and offers an alternative to traditional banking fees.
Bitcoin Payments in Restaurants Could Become the Norm
If Steak ’n Shake’s rollout proves successful, other major chains may follow. More businesses are exploring Bitcoin payments in restaurants as consumer interest grows and regulatory clarity improves.
Analysts say the fast food industry could be a key player in Bitcoin’s mass adoption. Chains like Wendy’s or Five Guys may feel pressure to offer similar options if customer demand rises.
With Bitcoin gaining wider recognition as a legitimate form of payment, restaurants can use it to reduce processing fees and attract crypto-native clientele.
