Across the United States, people search for Steak and Shake locations when craving a classic burger, milkshake, or late night bite. The actual number of stores varies by source, because new restaurants open while older locations close or rebrand.
Understanding how many Steak and Shake restaurants exist today helps set expectations for availability, hours, and menu consistency across different regions. The following sections break down locations, ownership models, and what to expect when visiting.
| Source | Reported Count (approx.) | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steak and Shake Corporate | 320+ company-owned and franchised locations | 2024 | Includes all active restaurants in the U.S. |
| Franchise Registry | Over 300 active franchise agreements | 2023 | Counts licensed franchisees, some may overlap with corporate data |
| Restaurant Business Online | 315 locations listed | 2023 | Based on industry filings and operator reports |
| Store Mapper on Official Site | Varies by state; live count when searched | 2024 | Real-time locator, may exclude temporarily closed stores |
Current Operational Steak and Shake Locations
The active restaurant footprint reflects both steady demand and ongoing adjustments in the restaurant sector. Corporate disclosure typically cites a mid three-hundred range for active stores, which includes company operated sites and licensed franchise partners. This count can shift quarterly as leases end, new units ramp up, and brand standards evolve in different markets.
Regional Distribution and Market Coverage
Steak and Shake presence is strongest in the Midwest and Plains states, with denser clusters near major highways and suburban shopping corridors. In coastal regions, locations are more selective, often positioned near universities, interstate exits, or tourist traffic zones. The following table outlines illustrative regional concentration based on publicly available location data.
| Region | Estimated Store Share | Key Markets | Typical Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midwest | High | Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Missouri | Company stores + strong franchise presence |
| South | Moderate to High | Texas, Tennessee, Kentucky | Mixed ownership, growth in suburban areas |
| West Coast | Low to Moderate | California, Washington, Oregon | Selective company and franchise locations |
| Northeast | Low to Moderate | New York, Pennsylvania, New England | Company stores near highways and campuses |
Ownership Models and How They Affect the Count
Steak and Shake operates through a hybrid ownership structure that influences how locations are counted and managed. Company owned stores allow tighter control over brand standards, staffing, and inventory, while franchise locations provide faster geographic expansion with local capital investment. Both types appear in the overall store count but may differ in operational nuances.
Company Owned Outlets
These locations are directly managed by Steak and Shake leadership, aligning closely with corporate training, menu rollouts, and promotional timing. They are a major part of the mid three-hundred total and often serve as flagship stores in key markets.
Franchised and Licensed Stores
Franchisees operate under strict brand guidelines and contribute to the broader footprint, especially in secondary cities and growing suburbs. Licensing agreements can be renewed, modified, or terminated, which explains why the active count can vary between reporting periods.
Planning a Visit and Choosing a Location
When you plan a visit, checking the operating hours and services at your nearest Steak and Shake helps avoid surprises. Not all locations offer the same hours, drive through speed, or limited time menu items, so a quick check on the store page is useful.
- Use the official store locator to confirm hours and services before traveling.
- Expect variations in drive through speed depending on location size and traffic.
- Check for limited time offers and seasonal menu items at your local store.
- Contact the location directly for accessibility details or large group accommodations.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many Steak and Shake locations are currently open in the United States?
Approximately 320 company-owned and franchised locations are active as of 2024, though the real time store locator may show a slightly different number due to temporary closures and new openings.
Does the number of Steak and Shake restaurants include seasonal or temporary closures?
The reported count typically reflects stores actively listed as operational, but temporary closures for renovations, lease transitions, or seasonal adjustments may not always be reflected immediately in public summaries.
Are new Steak and Shake locations still being added today?
Yes, franchise development and corporate expansion continue in select regions, particularly where highway traffic, university presence, and suburban dining demand support a profitable unit.
Can I find the exact current number of Steak and Shake on the official website store locator?
Using the store locator on the official site provides the most current list of open locations, and the dynamic count shown will reflect real time changes better than static summaries.