The 5 Must-Try Steak 'n Shake Menu Items For 2025: Why Their New Fries Are Going Viral

Steak ‘n Shake’s menu in late 2024 and heading into 2025 is a fascinating blend of timeless American classics and some truly significant, headline-making changes. For decades, the brand has been "Famous for Steakburgers" and "Homemade Milkshakes," but a recent, major shift in their cooking process has made their menu the subject of viral discussion and a must-try for food enthusiasts right now. This is your complete, up-to-date guide to everything on the menu, from the iconic Steakburgers to the full list of specialty shakes, as of December 2025.

The biggest update to the menu isn't a new burger, but a return to a classic culinary technique: the switch from cooking their famous thin-cut fries in seed oils to frying them in Beef Tallow. This change has been hailed by many for dramatically improving the flavor and texture of their fries, giving them a richer, crispier, and more satisfying taste that complements their signature Steakburgers perfectly. It's a fresh, unique reason to visit a restaurant that has been a staple of American fast-casual dining since the 1930s.

Steak 'n Shake: Founder & Company History (Topical Authority)

To fully appreciate the menu, it helps to understand the brand's storied past, which is rooted in quality and tradition. The company's focus on premium ingredients—the "steak" in Steakburger—was a revolutionary concept in the early days of fast food.

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• Founder: Gus Belt
• Founded: February 1934
• Original Location: Normal, Illinois, U.S.
• Original Concept: Belt converted a combination gas station and chicken restaurant into the first Steak 'n Shake.
• Pioneering Idea: Gus Belt was a pioneer of the "premium burger" and "milk shake" concept, famously grinding the steak cuts (T-bone, sirloin, and round) in front of customers to prove the quality of the beef.
• Slogan: The company’s long-standing slogan is "Famous for Steakburgers."
• Core Offerings: The menu has always centered around its signature Steakburgers and hand-dipped milkshakes.

The Core Menu: Steakburgers and the Viral Beef Tallow Fries

The cornerstone of the Steak 'n Shake experience is the Steakburger, a finely ground, high-quality patty that is thin, crispy-edged, and served hot. The preparation method is what sets it apart from standard fast-food patties, offering a richer flavor and a satisfying snap.

The Must-Try Steakburger Combos (2025)

Steak 'n Shake organizes its burger menu around its most popular, classic combinations. All combos typically include the burger and the new, highly-praised Beef Tallow Fries, providing a complete, high-value meal.

• Original Double Steakburger with Cheese: The quintessential order. Two thin patties, American cheese, and classic toppings. It remains the most popular item on the menu.
• Frisco Melt Combo: A fan-favorite melt that features two Steakburgers, American and Swiss cheeses, and a tangy Frisco sauce, all served on grilled sourdough bread. This item is a masterclass in savory, griddled flavor.
• Garlic Double Steakburger Combo: A more intense flavor profile, this burger is topped with roasted garlic butter and Swiss cheese, offering a potent, savory punch.
• Triple Steakburger: For those with a serious appetite, this features three Steakburger patties, offering maximum beef flavor and a substantial meal.
• Bacon 'N Cheese Single Steakburger and Fries: A great value option, often priced around $5.79 for the combo, making it one of the best "bang for your buck" cheeseburgers in the fast-food space.

The Game-Changing Beef Tallow Fries

The most significant and talked-about menu update is the preparation of the fries. In a move away from modern seed oils, Steak 'n Shake has transitioned to frying their thin, shoestring fries in Beef Tallow. This traditional fat imparts a deeper, richer, and more savory flavor to the fries, reminiscent of classic diner cooking. This change has created a noticeable buzz, with many customers and food critics praising the return to a superior taste and texture.

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The Legendary Milkshakes and Half Price Happy Hour

The "Shake" part of the name is just as important as the "Steak." Steak 'n Shake is famous for its hand-dipped milkshakes, which are made with real ice cream and a wide variety of mix-ins. These thick, creamy shakes are the perfect complement to the savory Steakburgers and salty fries.

The Full Specialty Shake Lineup

Beyond the classic flavors like Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry, the Specialty Shakes leverage popular candy and cookie brands for a decadent treat. They are all hand-dipped and made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring an incredibly thick and satisfying consistency.

• Candy Bar Shakes: Snickers®, Kit-Kat®, Butterfinger®, Reese's® Peanut Butter Cup, M&M's®.
• Cookie/Cream Shakes: Biscoff®, Oreo, Oreo Mint.
• Unique/Other Flavors: Nutella®, Reese's® Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cotton Candy.

The Half Price Happy Hour Secret

For budget-conscious diners and shake lovers, the Half Price Happy Hour is the best way to enjoy the full range of shakes and drinks. This is a crucial detail for maximizing value on the 2025 menu:

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• What: All shakes and drinks are offered at half price.
• When: Every weekday (Monday through Friday) from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
• Tip: Always confirm participation with your local Steak 'n Shake, as this is a franchise-level promotion.

Beyond the Burger: Chili, Sides, and Value

While the Steakburgers and Milkshakes are the stars, the rest of the menu is essential for a complete dining experience. The focus remains on high-quality, affordable American diner fare.

Chili and Specialty Sides

The Steak 'n Shake Chili is a classic, hearty offering that has been on the menu for decades. It is a popular choice, especially the Chili 5-Way, which is served over spaghetti with a variety of toppings, including cheese and onions, and is often priced around $6.99.

Other popular sides include the classic Beef Tallow Fries, cheese fries, and various chili-topped options. The menu also features a selection of non-burger specialties, such as the classic Chili Mac and the Grilled Cheese sandwich, all designed to offer quick, satisfying, and budget-friendly options.

The Commitment to Value

Steak 'n Shake continues its tradition of offering great value. Many items, including the Bacon 'N Cheese Single Steakburger combo, are available for under $6, making it a powerful contender in the fast-food space for affordability. The combination of the new, superior-tasting Beef Tallow Fries and the reliable value proposition ensures that the 2025 Steak 'n Shake menu remains a top choice for a classic, high-quality, and budget-friendly meal.