Chennai, Apr 30:
Hotels and restaurants across Chennai are witnessing a noticeable increase in food prices, with rates rising between 5% and 10%, following a shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).
According to industry representatives, the disruption in LPG supply has directly impacted daily kitchen operations, forcing establishments to bear higher input costs and pass on a portion of the burden to customers.
The Hotel Association stated that LPG is a critical fuel for cooking in most commercial kitchens, and any disruption in supply significantly affects the preparation of food at scale. With limited availability, many hotels have been compelled to procure LPG at higher prices or manage operations with constrained resources.
This has increased not only cooking costs but also operational inefficiencies, ultimately leading to revised menu pricing across several eateries.
Restaurant owners say the situation has become particularly challenging for small and mid-sized establishments that rely heavily on consistent LPG supply to cater to daily customers.
Some have reportedly reduced menu options or altered cooking schedules to cope with the shortage, while others are absorbing part of the cost to remain competitive. Despite these efforts, a moderate price hike has become unavoidable in order to sustain operations.
The impact is being felt by regular customers, especially office-goers, students and daily wage earners who depend on hotels for affordable meals.
Even a marginal increase in food prices can significantly affect monthly budgets, particularly for those who eat out frequently. Popular budget meals and tiffin items have seen slight price revisions, making everyday dining a bit more expensive.
However, industry stakeholders have reassured that the hike is temporary. The association has expressed confidence that once LPG supply stabilises, prices will be rolled back to previous levels. Authorities are also expected to address the supply disruption to ensure that essential services like the food industry are not adversely affected for long.
Until then, both hoteliers and customers are navigating a period of adjustment, with hopes that normalcy will return soon and bring relief to the city’s vibrant dining ecosystem.