Seattle's Beth's Cafe faces challenges as egg prices skyrocket
SEATTLE - Rising egg prices are putting pressure on Seattle restaurants, bakeries and diners like Beth’s Cafe, known for its legendary 12-egg omelets.
The beloved Greenlake diner, which has been a staple in the Seattle community since 1954, is now grappling with how to adjust to skyrocketing costs.
According to recent data, Washington ranks among the top five states with the steepest increases in egg prices, driven largely by avian flu outbreaks that have devastated poultry supplies. The Federal Reserve reported that the cost of a dozen eggs in U.S. cities has risen more than 70% year over year, and Beth’s owner Mason Reed says the price hikes are hitting businesses hard.
"The insurance companies have decided they're not going to protect the farms against bird flu," said Reed. "Essentially, doubling the prices of eggs effective immediately," he added.
Beth’s Cafe, famous for its massive portions and hearty "greasy spoon" breakfasts, has drawn locals and tourists alike for its 6- and 12-egg omelets, alongside endless hash browns. But with egg prices continuing to soar, Reed says changes may be on the horizon.
"We’re going to explore some plant-based egg alternatives, and then just alternative breakfasts. There’s lots of things we can eat for breakfast that don’t involve eggs," said Reed
For customers, the price increases are also being felt. Seattle resident Dan Sodomka said the cost of eggs has become a deterrent, even at the grocery store. "I feel like it would be cheaper to build a chicken coop and buy a flock of chickens, then it would be to invest in a months-worth of eggs," said Sodomka.

Beth’s Cafe in Seattle, Wash., is known for its legendary 12-egg omelets.
The challenges extend beyond food costs.
Reed noted that the cost of doing business in Seattle has been rising across the board, making it difficult for small, independent restaurants to stay competitive. At the start of the year, Seattle increased its minimum wage. For some business owners, that extra cost meant shutting their doors permanently.
"If there is anything that i could say to the public, it would be go easy on your small businesses and restaurateurs because we are struggling alongside everyone else," said Reed.
Beth’s Cafe has been a cherished part of Seattle’s culture for nearly 70 years, appearing on national programs like "Man vs. Food" and "World’s Best Places to Pig Out." While the future remains uncertain amid these challenges, Reed remains optimistic about adapting to meet customer needs.
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