Colorado Restaurateur Takes Swift Action to Combat Rising Food Prices from Tariffs

The U.S. market has faced significant volatility following President Donald Trump’s tariff announcement on what he dubbed “Liberation Day.” In response, Steve Hammer, owner of Mauka Poke and Twisted Root restaurants in Eagle, Colorado, found himself in a panic, ordering 200 pounds of ahi tuna to hedge against potential price increases. Mauka Poke exclusively serves poke, while Twisted Root offers fish alongside classic options like pizza and burgers. Hammer recounted, “On ‘Liberation Day,’ I probably got 10,000 grey hairs. I completely panicked.”

At that moment, Hammer believed it was better to secure his seafood supply at current prices than risk higher costs resulting from tariffs imposed on goods from Vietnam, where he sources most of his seafood. Following Trump’s announcement, he learned that U.S. companies would incur a 20% tariff on goods from Vietnam, and a staggering 40% on items routed through there from other nations. Meanwhile, Vietnam agreed not to impose tariffs on U.S. goods. The broader restaurant industry has been caught in a precarious situation, with a shift in consumer behavior as fewer people dine out.

The Independent Restaurant Coalition has noted that small establishments, like Hammer’s, are under immense pressure due to the trade wars, particularly as they wrestle with rising costs for cookware and supplies, many of which come from China. The impact of these tariffs is evident in Hammer’s operations. He highlighted increases in the costs of avocados from Mexico, now nearly double, and other supplies like disposable bowls and gloves. The price hikes have forced Hammer to keep a well-stocked inventory to delay passing costs onto customers, though they are already cutting back on extras.

As he navigates these challenges, Hammer has stopped taking a salary and relies on his digital marketing business for income. With his restaurant profits dwindling, he feels a sense of responsibility for his 30 seasonal employees and shows no signs of closing anytime soon. He plans to reassess the situation in six months and possibly revamp Twisted Root’s business model. Hammer expressed frustration with the current administration’s approach to trade, characterizing it as heavy-handed and detrimental to his efforts.