Steak ‘N Shake Drops ETH Plan After Bitcoin Backlash

• Steak ‘N Shake posted and deleted a poll on accepting ETH
• Bitcoin community strongly opposed the move
• The chain reaffirmed loyalty to Bitcoin payments

In a quick turn of events, popular fast-food chain Steak ‘N Shake has walked back its consideration of accepting Ethereum ($ETH) as a payment option. The company posted a poll asking users whether they should begin accepting $ETH — but within hours, the post was deleted after strong backlash from the Bitcoin community.

The controversy erupted on X (formerly Twitter), where Steak ‘N Shake’s poll stirred immediate criticism. Bitcoin supporters argued that embracing Ethereum could dilute the company’s pro-Bitcoin stance, which had previously earned it praise among Bitcoiners.

Bitcoin Maxis Make Their Voice Heard

The poll, which appeared to be an attempt to gauge community interest, was swiftly met with disapproval. Prominent Bitcoin supporters called out the move, accusing the brand of “betraying” its Bitcoin-friendly identity.

In response, Steak ‘N Shake took the poll down and issued a clear message: “Our allegiance is with Bitcoiners.” This statement signaled the brand’s decision to maintain its Bitcoin-only payment ideology and avoid supporting alternative cryptocurrencies like Ethereum.

While the tweet and poll are now deleted, the swift action demonstrates just how powerful the Bitcoin community’s voice can be — especially when it comes to brands trying to appeal to the broader crypto audience.

A Win for Bitcoin Maximalism

This incident reflects the ongoing tension between Bitcoin maximalists — those who believe only Bitcoin is a legitimate cryptocurrency — and the growing list of altcoins like Ethereum that are gaining mainstream traction.

For Steak ‘N Shake, the lesson was clear: trying to appease multiple crypto camps may not always end well. By reaffirming its loyalty to Bitcoin, the brand is playing it safe — and keeping its most vocal supporters happy.