Steak ‘n Shake is a favorite roadside stop for travelers and a popular hangout spot across the United States. Like many American fast-food joints, Steak ‘n Shake features a few secret menu items that only the true diehards tend to be aware of. While the Steak ‘n Shake secret menu isn’t extensive, there are opportunities to go beyond the posted menu. Don’t be afraid to get a bit creative.

Official secret menu vs. customer creations?

The Steak ‘n Shake secret menu is constantly growing and changing, thanks in large part to loyal fans on social media trying out new combinations and encouraging others to do the same. The “official” nature of the secret menu is disputed. There’s one secret menu item that is very popular—so much so that your cashier will recognize it and the restaurant actively promotes it. Other menu items are customer creations that simply became popular because they went viral.

The most popular Steak ‘n Shake secret menu items

If you’re ready to dive into the Steak ‘n Shake secret menu, you won’t have to look very far to get it. As mentioned, it’s short, with only a few real items. That said, these are truly powerhouse selections! Here’s a look at what you can order off-menu at Steak ‘n Shake:

• 7×7 Burger: This is definitely the most popular secret menu item available at all Steak ‘n Shake locations. You can get it for just $7.77, so long as you order it between midnight and 6 a.m., making it an oddly specific and unique treat. It’s a late-night meal for partiers or road trippers who are in need of a big snack. This is the traditional steakburger, but with seven cheese-topped patties on top of each other and fitted inside the bun. This is the ultimate bit of indulgence for steakburger enthusiasts, and a perfect way to end a fun night. It’s also something of a food challenge and rite of passage. You’ll want to be there when your friends take it on!
• Grilled cheese: Grilled cheese is a common secret menu item at many restaurants because of its simplicity, and Steak ‘n Shake is no exception. If you order a grilled cheese sandwich, you can trust the cooks will know how to make it for you.
• Root beer float: Steak ‘n Shake is known for its shakes, of course. But sometimes you just want to finish off your dinner with a refreshing root beer float. Again, though it may not be on the menu, it’s an item the restaurant will be happy to make for you.

Obviously, the big feature on this chain’s secret menu is the 7×7 Burger. But that shouldn’t stop you from experimenting with other steakburger combinations! Don’t be afraid to experiment the next time you stop off for a hearty bite at Steak ‘n Shake.

How to order from the hidden menu

If you’re interested in giving the 7×7 a try, you can be pretty certain your waiter or waitress will know what you’re talking about. If absolutely necessary you can always describe it to them. You shouldn’t have to worry about that, though. The 7×7 has taken on a sort of mythical status in the world of fast-food eating challenges. Most Steak ‘n Shake employees working the night shift are ready to dole a couple of these out in the wee hours. Other menu items you’ll need to explain, so be prepared to do so!