About 45% of reviews praise fresh, flavorful burgers, crispy fries (especially the new beef tallow style), and thick shakes, with some calling Steak 'n Shake "the best fast food burger joint in town" and stating fries are "better than Whataburger, McDonalds, 5 Guys, Braums." Roughly 35% of reviewers appreciate the sparkling clean restaurant, fast and friendly service, and accessible layout, with several lauding helpful staff by name and the detailed allergen menu on kiosks. Negative experiences comprise about 40% of reviews, with frequent complaints about the sterile kiosk-only ordering system, lack of human interaction, QR code-access soda machines, and cold or unimpressive food; some miss the older, more welcoming service style. Notably, 10% of reviews cite poor value, issues with deals or order accuracy, and, in two cases, serious allegations of unprofessional or even discriminatory staff behavior. The environment is described as often empty and less inviting since automation changes, though some guests find the digital ordering efficient and an improvement over past slow or inaccurate service.