Crypto Payment Adoption in Restaurants: A Growing Trend
Cryptocurrency, once dismissed as a fleeting trend, is becoming a relevant payment option in the restaurant industry. Recent developments indicate that many restaurant operators are recognizing cryptocurrencies not as a novelty but as a strategic tool that could reshape customer interactions. This shift is grounded in appealing to tech-savvy demographics and reducing transaction costs, as restaurants look for innovative ways to stay competitive in an evolving market.
The adoption process is still in its early stages. Recent statistics reveal that over 28% of adults in the United States—approximately 65 million individuals—own cryptocurrency. In addition, another 14% of non-holders express interest in purchasing crypto within the next year. Globally, more than 500 million people are involved with digital assets. This growing engagement with digital currencies correlates with an anticipated 80% increase in the use of digital payment platforms, including those that support cryptocurrency, by 2026.
This upward trend presents significant opportunities for restaurants, particularly those targeting younger consumers. Acceptance of digital currencies can strengthen customer engagement and modernize payment systems. Beyond direct payments, blockchain technology offers potential for enhancing loyalty programs and improving operational efficiencies.
Leading the charge among fast-food chains in the crypto space is Steak ’n Shake, which recently introduced Bitcoin payments at its U.S. locations. Customers can easily pay by scanning QR codes linked to popular crypto wallets like Coinbase and BitPay. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to modernize the brand and attract younger consumers. Interestingly, the chain has also noted a rise in crypto-based tipping, indicating a cultural shift in payment preferences.
Other major brands are exploring cryptocurrency more cautiously. For instance, although Burger King has not implemented systemwide crypto payments, franchise locations in markets such as Venezuela and Germany are testing the model with varying levels of success. In the U.S., Burger King has launched crypto-themed marketing campaigns and gift card promotions in collaboration with financial technology platforms, reflecting a growing interest in reaching crypto-conscious customers.
Subway’s decentralized franchise model has allowed individual franchisees to experiment with crypto since as early as 2013. As of 2025, several locations in Europe have expanded their payment options by integrating platforms like GoCrypto, empowering franchisees to offer targeted loyalty programs specifically designed for crypto users. These initiatives aim to capture the attention of younger audiences and drive up engagement metrics.
KFC is also exploring the possibilities of cryptocurrency through its digital innovation teams. Following a previous promotion in Canada back in 2018, the brand is now piloting token-based loyalty programs in regions like Southeast Asia and the Middle East, allowing customers to earn blockchain-based tokens through engagement in their mobile app.
Notably, FAT Brands, which oversees several popular restaurant chains including Fatburger, Johnny Rockets, and Round Table Pizza, is making waves by accepting Bitcoin for royalty payments as of early 2025. This notable move aims to reduce cross-border transaction costs, especially for international franchise operators. Additionally, FAT Brands is dipping its toes into crypto initiatives, exploring loyalty programs powered by blockchain and NFT-integrated digital experiences.
The advantages of cryptocurrency for restaurant operators are compelling. Payment processors like BitPay, Strike, and Lavu enable restaurants to accept crypto without the volatility risk traditionally associated with digital assets, as funds are instantly converted into fiat currency. Transaction fees can be considerably lower than conventional credit card transactions—averaging around 1.5% compared to 2-3% for credit cards. Added benefits include quicker settlement times and the potential for simplified accounting processes through blockchain technology.
While the early adopters in the industry are reaping these benefits, challenges linger. Issues related to volatility in cryptocurrency prices, limited consumer awareness, and the necessity for staff training can slow the adoption process. Additionally, integrating these systems into existing point-of-sale (POS) technology can present complications. Consequently, many restaurants are opting for less risky approaches to entering the blockchain space—such as launching crypto-enabled gift cards or introducing QR code payment systems—to ease their transition into this new realm.
Geographical factors are impacting the pace of adoption as well. North America and Western Europe are currently leading in crypto acceptance among merchants. In contrast, countries in Latin America and Africa have seen accelerated growth in peer-to-peer cryptocurrency transactions, often propelled by economic instability and inflation. The travel and tourism industry is also benefiting, as crypto-based bookings surged by over 30% year on year, showcasing the growing intersection of blockchain technology with hospitality.
Emerging trends indicate that the role of cryptocurrency in restaurants can extend beyond simple payment transactions. Operators are exploring avenues such as tokenized loyalty programs, blockchain-secured supply chains, NFT offerings for menus and loyalty programs, and experiential branded debit cards. While not yet widespread, these innovations reveal a keen interest among restaurant operators to integrate blockchain technologies for competitive advantage.
In this evolving landscape, embracing cryptocurrency remains optional for many restaurant operators. Yet, with increased consumer familiarity and enhanced supporting infrastructure, the potential for offering crypto payment options and blockchain-based loyalty features could become a strategic imperative. As businesses adapt to rapidly shifting customer expectations and the digital economy, the integration of cryptocurrencies may soon become commonplace in the restaurant industry.
Key Takeaways:
- Over 28% of U.S. adults own cryptocurrency, signaling growing acceptance.
- Major restaurant chains like Steak ’n Shake and FAT Brands are taking proactive steps toward accepting Bitcoin as a payment method.
- Lower transaction fees and faster settlement times are key advantages of using cryptocurrency.
- Geographical factors are influencing the rate of crypto adoption across different regions.
Source names:
- Cryptocurrency market reports
- Restaurant Technology News
- Triple-A Survey on digital assets
