Sacramento, September 7, 2025
News Summary
Restaurants in Sacramento, California, are embracing cryptocurrency payment options, notably Brookfields Restaurants, which is allowing customers to buy gift cards using popular cryptocurrencies. This shift comes as many businesses seek to reduce transaction costs and attract a younger customer base familiar with digital currencies. The initiative, facilitated by Foodtoken.net, is part of a larger trend towards digital payment solutions in response to changing consumer preferences. A press conference will announce the participating eateries, showcasing Sacramento’s commitment to financial innovation.
California Restaurants Embrace Cryptocurrency Payment Options
Several restaurants in Sacramento, California, are making headlines by adopting cryptocurrency payments, marking a significant shift in the dining experience for tech-savvy customers. Among the notable establishments joining this trend is Brookfields Restaurants, which is introducing a new payment option that allows customers to purchase gift cards using popular cryptocurrencies.
With over four decades of experience, Brookfields has adapted to the evolving payment landscape, transitioning from 85% cash transactions in the 1980s to around 85-87% credit card payments today. Co-owner Stacy Marr highlights the importance of maintaining a consistent menu to build customer loyalty while recognizing the need to attract a younger demographic through innovative payment solutions.
The restaurant chain plans to implement a system where customers can buy a $50 gift card by simply scanning a QR code, a move that Marr hopes will draw in a younger audience more familiar with digital currencies. In addition to Brookfields, three other restaurant chains along with a winery in the area are also set to accept cryptocurrency payments, facilitated by a service called Foodtoken.net.
Foodtoken.net allows businesses to accept popular currencies such as Bitcoin and Tether and claims to charge only a small fraction of traditional credit card fees, making it a cost-effective option. For instance, Marr cites annual credit card fees ranging from $360,000 to $400,000, indicating a clear interest in reducing overall processing costs through this new payment method.
A Gallup poll suggests that about 1 in 7 adults in the United States owns some form of cryptocurrency, reflecting a growing interest in digital currencies despite 60% of adults showing no interest in purchasing them. Bryan Barton, the CEO of Foodtoken.net, emphasizes that increased transactions in cryptocurrency are vital for enhancing its market viability.
The recent introduction of a California law regulating a segment of the cryptocurrency market aims to bolster confidence among crypto skeptics, a sentiment echoed by local Congressman Kevin Kiley. This move not only promotes innovative payment solutions in the restaurant sector but also positions Sacramento as a forward-thinking city in terms of financial technology.
A press conference scheduled for noon on Friday at the State Capitol’s West Lawn will officially announce the five restaurant chains involved in accepting cryptocurrencies. The event will feature representatives from the participating establishments and offer food samples, alongside speeches from key figures such as Bryan Barton and Congressman Kiley. This event highlights Sacramento’s commitment to pursuing financial innovation and embracing the shift towards digital currencies in everyday transactions.
Background Context
The shift towards accepting cryptocurrency payments in restaurants represents a larger trend in consumer behavior and payment technology. Traditional cash and card payments are increasingly giving way to digital transactions, driven by advancements in technology and changing consumer preferences. The growing ownership and acceptance of cryptocurrencies highlight a shift in how people view money and transactions in the digital age.
This development is timely, as more businesses look for ways to reduce transaction fees and attract younger consumers who favor digital payment methods. As more restaurants and businesses adopt cryptocurrency, it could signal a broader change in how commerce is conducted in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cryptocurrencies will the Sacramento restaurants accept?
The participating restaurants will accept popular cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Tether, through Foodtoken.net.
How can customers use cryptocurrencies at the restaurants?
Customers can purchase gift cards by scanning a QR code, which will allow them to use cryptocurrency for their transactions.
Why are restaurants moving towards cryptocurrency payments?
Restaurants are adopting cryptocurrencies to reduce transaction costs associated with traditional credit card payments and to attract a younger customer demographic that is more comfortable with digital currencies.
What is Foodtoken.net?
Foodtoken.net is a service that facilitates cryptocurrency payments for businesses, allowing them to accept various cryptocurrencies while charging lower fees compared to traditional credit card processors.
When is the official announcement for the new payment method?
The official announcement will take place at noon on Friday during a press conference at the State Capitol’s West Lawn.
| Feature | Cryptocurrency Payments | Credit Card Payments |
|---|---|---|
| Transaction Fees | Lower fees (fraction of credit card fees) | Higher fees ($360,000 to $400,000 annually for some businesses) |
| Customer Demographic | Younger, tech-savvy customers | Broad but less focused on younger demographics |
| Payment Process | QR code scan for gift cards | Traditional swipe or insert method |
| Current Trends | Increasing adoption in the hospitality industry | Gradual decline in cash usage |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox40: Sacramento Restaurants to Accept Bitcoin
- Wikipedia: Cryptocurrency
- KFBK: Capitol Event Announces Crypto-accepting Restaurants
- Google Search: Cryptocurrency Payment Systems
- Spectrum News 1: Cryptocurrency Payment Developments
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bitcoin
- Sacramento Bee: Capitol Alert on Cryptocurrency
Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER
The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
