Steak 'n Shake Adopts Bitcoin with Lightning Network in All Stores

• Fast Food Accepts Bitcoin Globally with Lightning Network
• BTC payments grow in retail with Steak 'n Shake
• Lightning Network Makes Bitcoin Viable for Everyday Purchases

The international fast food chain Steak 'n Shake announced officially adopting Bitcoin (BTC) payments in all its units around the world, provided that local legislation allows it. The announcement took place on May 27, during the Bitcoin 2025 Conference in Las Vegas.

According to the company, BTC payments began to be accepted on May 16, through the Lightning Network — a second-layer technology that allows for fast transactions with minimal fees. The decision marks a significant step forward for the everyday use of cryptocurrencies in the food sector.

The impact was immediate. On the day of its launch, the company recorded a significant volume: one in every 500 Bitcoin transactions worldwide was carried out through the chain’s stores. The company’s COO, Dan Edwards, attributed the initial success to the enthusiasm of the public, who showed interest in using BTC in a traditional consumer environment.

JUST IN: Fast food giant Steak 'n Shake announced they're saving 50% in processing fees accepting Bitcoin payments 🚀

' # Bitcoin is faster than credit cards' 🙌 pic.twitter.com/bxApgBL6El

- Bitcoin Magazine (@BitcoinMagazine) May 27, 2025

Edwards also highlighted that Bitcoin acceptance is growing steadily as consumers become more comfortable with the technology. For him, enabling real-time transactions with low fees creates a seamless payment experience that is aligned with the expectations of the modern consumer.

The announcement was made during the opening of the conference and reinforced the company's role as one of the first major food chains to broadly integrate Bitcoin. This initiative contributes to expanding the presence of digital currency in everyday life, moving away from the traditional reserve asset profile to also becoming a practical means of payment.

With the integration of the Lightning Network, Steak ‘n Shake could serve as an example for other retailers considering incorporating cryptocurrencies into their payment systems. The trend points to an environment where the use of BTC as a direct form of payment becomes increasingly common, especially for low-value, high-frequency transactions.