The cost of preparing a classic lunch at an American diner has shot up by almost 13% in a year.
To track inflation’s effect on a beloved menu choice, Bloomberg created an American Diner Index that includes ingredients for the toothpicked club sandwich, as well as the accompanying potato chips, ice cream and soda. Although restaurant owners don't necessarily pass all rising expenses onto their customers, the gauge provides an insight into how much more expensive it's become to assemble a basic meal.
Prices for lettuce and bread have surged 33% and 20% in the past year, respectively, contributing to the surge in the index, which is based on consumer-price data published monthly by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Two other key ingredients in the club sandwich, turkey and ham, also soared by more than 10%. And a half gallon of ice cream now costs about $5.64, up from $4.92 a year ago.
