KILGORE, Texas — Thanksgiving Day is just three weeks away.
While inflation is already taking a toll, restaurants and catering businesses are also dealing with a turkey shortage.
One of the main reasons for the shortage, according to experts, is the bird flu.
The iconic restaurant is stocking up on its other popular meats to give families options if they run out of turkey.
“We do anticipate running out completely of [sic] turkey this year,” Gunn added. “That's why we're upping the supply of our ribs, brisket, regular sausage and a jalapeno cheddar sausage, as well."
Gunn says they typically serve around 150 turkeys a week. However, due to demand this year, they’re getting about 10-12 turkeys per truck.
“With what we have in stock, it's definitely going to be a strain on our holiday supplies,” Gunn added. “Typically, both those bottom two racks are full of turkey. We have about half of what we normally have in stock.”
The restaurant currently works with three turkey suppliers. Gunn says this helps ensure they have enough turkeys to hand out, while also keeping the price in mind.
“Our prices have stayed the same -- at $19.50/pound,” Gunn said. “We have kept them the same all throughout this year, even with inflation. Sometimes it's hard. But at the end of the day, we like to keep our customers happy.”
If you plan on ordering your Thanksgiving meal from Country Tavern, you should place your order as soon as possible.
For the restaurant's full Thanksgiving menu, click here.