Local & Community
Rising Produce Prices Squeeze Local Restaurants in the Coachella Valley
If it feels like you’re paying more for fruits and vegetables lately, you’re not alone.
Agriculture experts say produce prices are up more than 11% compared to a year ago, and that increase is putting added pressure on local restaurants already dealing with rising costs.
At Sherman's Deli & Bakery, a longtime Coachella Valley staple serving hundreds of meals each day, rising produce costs are becoming harder to ignore.
“Two dollars for an avocado,” said Damien, describing just how much prices have jumped.
He says staples like tomatoes have also seen major increases.
“To give you an idea of how much we’re working with, our tomatoes had shot up. At one point they were close to 60 to 70% higher,” he said.
Experts say what’s happening locally mirrors a national trend.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the spike in produce prices is being fueled by a combination of higher fuel costs, supply chain disruptions and severe weather affecting crops.
At Sherman's, managers say they’re absorbing those higher costs for now to avoid passing them on to customers.
“We do get a little shell-shocked,” Damien said. “But we do our best. Being one of those companies that provides a free meal for our employees, sometimes we have to make adjustments, but we try our best to accommodate everyone.”
For now, restaurants like Sherman's are balancing rising costs while trying to keep prices stable for the community they serve.
By: NBC Palm Springs
June 21, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
What do you think is really going on here? Drop your thoughts below 👇 #therogginreport #coachella #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings
During the 2025-2026 school year, PEN America reported there were nearly 12,000 book bans in public schools nationwide, the largest number of book bans in a single year since the group started tracking numbers in 2021.
Delta Airlines overhauled its frequent flyer program in 2024. CNN’s Randi Kaye asks Delta CEO Ed Bastian if the airline has made it more difficult for flyers to earn status and if any further changes to the loyalty program are on the horizon.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. Favorite Festival?
‘The Hayden’ is back @babysmarche !! John Hayden himself took a trip to the Indian Wells staple for lunch and to chat with @chefjustinsnyder on how it became the most popular item on the menu! #TheHayden
🛑A bike ride ended in tragedy Monday night in Palm Springs. A bicyclist died after being struck by a car around 8:30 PM on E. Palm Canyon Dr. The driver stayed at the scene and police say there’s no indication of foul play or impairment. ❓Saw the crash or have video from the area? Call Palm Springs police at (760) 327–1441.
Social Time: Jerry sings the end! 🎶🎵
CALIFORNIA IS AGING FAST... BUT WHERE WILL THE WORKFORCE LIVE? #therogginreport #coachellavalley #localnews #agingpopulation #nbcpalmsprings
119 jobs on the line and DRD’s General Manager won’t answer questions … Drop a comment 👇: Would you vote YES or NO on giving a district more money if they refuse to answer transparency questions? #therogginreport #drd #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings