YILAN (TVBS News) — "Royal Steak" (皇佳牛排), a beloved restaurant in Yilan, announced on Thursday (Oct. 3) that it will close its doors in February 2025 due to workforce shortages and rising raw material costs.
The restaurant, founded in 1984, has been a cherished part of the community and is known for its commitment to quality during its 40 years of operation.
The owner explained the challenges of maintaining high standards amid increasing costs in a social media post, stating that better products have seen the most significant price hikes in recent years.
Despite opting for premium ingredients like animal-based anhydrous butter, which costs NT$8,000 per barrel compared to NT$1,000 for plant-based alternatives, the restaurant has struggled to sustain its business model.
Customers have resisted efforts to switch to cheaper meat options, the owner noted, adding that most patrons now prioritize quantity over quality.
The owner posted that in this era of rising prices, the idea of using cheaper meat caused customer backlash, but today's diners are more focused on getting full.
The owner expressed gratitude to loyal patrons, dedicated staff, and supportive suppliers, acknowledging the difficulty of maintaining quality standards in today's market.