Some Denny’s customers will have to start paying a little extra for their eggs.
The 1,500-unit diner chain said Monday that it is adding a temporary surcharge to all meals that include eggs at some of its restaurants to help manage rising egg prices. The amount of the surcharge will vary by market.
An outbreak of avian flu has infected poultry flocks across the country, which is limiting egg production and driving up prices nationwide. Since the start of 2025, the average price of a dozen eggs has risen by more than 38% to an all-time high of $8, according to USDA data.
Denny’s said the surcharge is being applied on a restaurant-by-restaurant basis due to regional impacts of the egg shortage. It did not say how many restaurants would be affected.
The Spartanburg, South Carolina-based chain is known for its breakfasts, and many of its meals contain eggs, including its popular Slams category. The extra charge comes as consumers are already dealing with years of inflation-driven menu price increases.
“We understand our guests’ desire for value, and we will continue to look for ways to provide options on our menu, including our $2 $4 $6 $8 value menu, while navigating these rapidly changing market dynamics responsibly,” Denny’s said in a statement.
Earlier this month, Waffle House added a 50-cent per-egg surcharge at all of its locations. Some local restaurants are also tacking on extra for eggs. And many grocery stores have put a limit on egg purchases.
At least one restaurant chain, however, has gone the other way. In response to the Waffle House egg surcharge, Cracker Barrel launched a promotion that offered customers double loyalty points if they ordered eggs.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a Restaurant Business member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.