Rs 140 for meals, Rs 18 for tea; Food prices soar in restaurants as LPG price rises

KOCHI: Food prices in restaurants across Kochi are rising sharply, affecting common people who depend on affordable meals. Prices vary widely even among restaurants of similar standards, with many setting rates as they wish. In several places, price lists are not displayed, and customers only learn the cost after receiving the bill.

In Kochi, tea is priced between Rs 10 and Rs 18, while coffee costs around Rs 25 to Rs 30. Lunch prices also vary significantly, ranging from Rs 80 to Rs 140. “Special meals” are priced even higher. Restaurant owners say the increase in price is due to a shortage of LPG cylinders and the need to purchase them from the black market.

A shortage of migrant workers is also cited as a reason for the price rise. Owners say they are forced to pay higher wages to attract workers. According to them, the choice is either to operate at a loss or reduce quality. Since lowering quality could drive customers away, they say increasing prices is the only option.

However, officials from the Civil Supplies Department state that more than 60% of restaurants in Kochi are receiving LPG cylinders regularly and do not need to depend on the black market. Representatives of the Hotel and Restaurant Association have also said they do not support overcharging customers.

Meanwhile, with the price of commercial LPG cylinders increasing by Rs 993 today, food prices in restaurants are likely to rise further. Following the hike, a 19 kg commercial cylinder now costs over Rs 3000. If prices continue to rise, many people may stop eating out, and the restaurant industry could face a serious crisis in the coming days.