Beef prices squeeze Tucson restaurants as food costs climb across the board

Rising beef and food costs are putting pressure on restaurants across Tucson, including Victoria’s Cocina Mexicana. Owner David Matias said skirt steak, an important part of his menu, now costs close to $11.

Average ground beef prices have reached $8.60, up 12% from last year, while steak averages nearly $13, a 16% increase. Matias said his restaurant spends about $22,000 each month on meat.

Other ingredients have also become more expensive. A case of limes, used in the restaurant’s margaritas and marinades, has climbed to $75. Matias said he is using specials and other ways to reduce costs.

During the summer, the restaurant has sometimes scheduled fewer employees or sent workers home early. Despite the cost increases and the usual summer slowdown, sales rose this year, helped by customers coming in to watch the World Cup.