Food prices take big hit from drought

VIGO CO., Ind. (WTHI) - J-Ford's Black Angus celebrates its 5th anniversary this weekend.

"We didn't know if we'd be successful in the beginning with this type of restaurant, at this price point, but we decided that if we were going to open up the restaurant, what we wanted to do, we would just stick to that," said Kelly Ford of J. Ford’s Black Angus.

So far, sticking to their forte has worked, and business is good.

But, after the drought, food prices this year won't help the cause.

"It's been a rough summer, as far as getting some fresher local produce, that was a little tough obviously but we had to re-find the path but we made it," said Jeff Ford of J. Ford’s Black Angus.

The price of meat, fish and dairy has increased by 10 to 15 percent.

"If I can put it on the center of your plate, the price is going up on it," Ford said.

The price of steak has been the heaviest hitter.

"The biggest hit on us, obviously, is we're beef. We're protein, so our beef costs just explode," Ford said.

Across town, J. Gumbo's said it is paying more by 3 to 5 percent.

"All the dairy products, everything—you know—the sour cream, our crawfish, our shrimp,” said Jeff Habermel of J. Gumbo’s.

The price of chicken is what's really hurting.

"Our number one seller is the Drunken Chicken. So, obviously, it affects me the most," Habermel said.

Both restaurants said they're not adjusting menu prices and taking the hit.

"To me, it's all about volume. So, to be competitive, I have to keep them where they're at to keep people from coming back. I feel…I'm afraid to do anything."

J.Ford's owners said they'll save in other areas.

"We'll tighten our belt a little bit, and make it through and hope for better days I guess," said Ford.