DENVER — Beef prices in the U.S. continue to set record highs. The average price per pound in the second quarter of 2025 was $8.51, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture data

This was a significant increase from $7.33 during the same time last year. In 2020, the average price was $6.38.

The increase has had a pronounced effect on restaurants. Michelle McGlone opened Lucy’s Burger Bar in Denver in 2021, and she said in her four years of business, she’s had to pay roughly 30% more for supplies.

She says she’s tried to keep herself from passing that onto customers but has had to increase her prices once a year to keep pace.

“I had a guest just even recently that left a note on the bottom of the receipt, which I love, because it's always [positive],” McGlone said. “So, I saw it, and

See Full Page