"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"NBC Palm Springs","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https://nbcpalmsprings.com/icon.svg"}},"mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://nbcpalmsprings.com/2025/02/17/egg-prices-expected-to-surge-againhow-one-palm-desert-restaurant-is-coping"}}19:T6c8,

Egg prices are once again on the rise, and experts warn that consumers could see another 20% increase by the end of the year. With last year's prices already spiking nearly 37%, restaurant owners are bracing for even higher costs.

At Kitchen 86 in Palm Desert, eggs are a key ingredient in breakfast staples like omelets, Boom Boom Shrimp Benedict, and breakfast pizza. Manager Miguel Espinola says his kitchen uses dozens of eggs daily, making the price surge especially difficult.

"You know, it’s going crazy, but we do our best," Espinola said.

What’s Causing the Price Hike?

The Agriculture Department attributes the rising costs to the bird flu outbreak, which has killed over 40 million egg-laying birds nationwide. With supply dwindling, the industry is struggling to keep up with demand, leading to higher grocery store prices and restaurant menu adjustments.

Difficult Choices for Restaurants

For Kitchen 86, absorbing the added costs isn’t easy. Espinola says they’re carefully analyzing pricing to avoid passing too much of the burden onto customers.

"It’s hard, but we have to find a way to find the medium price for both sides," he explained.

As egg prices continue to climb, restaurants across the Coachella Valley are being forced to reevaluate their menus—and customers may soon feel the impact.

Kai Beach reporting for NBC Palm Springs.

Egg Prices Expected to Surge Again—How One Palm Desert Restaurant is Coping