High Cost of Fresh Pasta in Upscale Italian Restaurants in California

SOURCE www.sfgate.com
Many upscale Italian restaurants in California are charging high prices for fresh handmade pasta due to rising labor and ingredient costs, as well as the complexity of running a restaurant. Chefs and owners explain the factors that contribute to the high prices of pasta dishes.

Key Points

  • Labor and ingredient costs are significant factors in pricing fresh pasta dishes
  • Restaurants like Flour + Water and Funke source high-quality ingredients and employ skilled pasta-makers
  • Charging high prices for pasta is also influenced by the overall cost of running a restaurant and providing a unique dining experience

Pros

  • Pasta is handmade with carefully sourced ingredients
  • Connection to thousands of years of history in pasta-making
  • Supports local farmers and artisans

Cons

  • High prices make dining out less accessible to many
  • Cost of ingredients and labor continue to rise
  • Perception of fairness in pricing