LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Surging beef prices across the country are putting significant pressure on local dining establishments, forcing one popular Southern Nevada barbecue spot to shut its doors permanently.
Smoke & Fire, which has operated in the valley for five years, announced it will close permanently on Sept. 26. Ownership stated that escalating wholesale meat prices played a major role in the decision to cease operations.
“Barbeque restaurants are really expensive to run because its mostly meat. And meat is very expensive,” ownership said. “The cost of meat has gone up significantly since we opened. Year over year its just been going up and up. Its expensive to eat BBQ and its expensive to make BBQ.”
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According to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, average retail beef prices at grocery stores have climbed to $9.64 per pound, representing a 13% increase compared to the same period last year.
At SMKD in Henderson, which has been open for approximately one year, Chef Alex said the restaurant was created to provide families with affordable meals. Navigating higher ingredient prices has required weekly adjustments to protect quality while keeping menu items accessible.
“We have kept the same quality of beef. We do not diminish it. I do work with my vendors on a weekly basis to keep the costs down as possible,” Chef Alex said. “I didn’t get into this business to become a billionaire, let’s be realistic. I opened this place as a family restaurant. We all know prices aren’t going down, but some stability would be great so that we all know where we are.”
USDA projections indicate that overall consumer prices for beef and veal will record an average annual increase of 9.8% through the end of the year.
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