Kafi BBQ Navigated Rising Costs in Irving

Founded in 2023, the halal-certified restaurant adapted to a 50% increase in beef prices.

Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Barbecue

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring raw beef cuts, butcher knives, and a bowl of rendered fat, symbolizing culinary efficiency. — Kafi BBQ in Irving has optimized its meat-processing techniques to maintain halal-certified quality amid a 50% increase in beef prices. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you trust that local restaurants will maintain food quality despite rising ingredient costs?

Since opening in 2023, the Irving-based Kafi BBQ has utilized creative meat-processing techniques to counter rising supply costs. The establishment, founded by Salahodeen Abdul-Kafi, was recently named one of the top 50 best new barbecue joints by Southern Living.

Why it matters

The restaurant was forced to optimize its meat usage after beef prices climbed more than 50% since its 2023 launch. By processing trimmings and rendering fat, Kafi BBQ maintains its commitment to halal-certified quality despite significant market volatility.

Kafi BBQ operates in Irving using halal-certified meat sourced from Wagyu X in Midlothian. The establishment processes brisket trimmings into sausages and renders excess fat into tallow for its fries.

The players

Kafi BBQ

This Irving-based restaurant specializes in halal-certified barbecue and was recently honored by Southern Living.

Salahodeen Abdul-Kafi

He is the founder of Kafi BBQ who prioritizes halal meat standards while managing restaurant operations.

Southern Living

This lifestyle publication recognized Kafi BBQ as one of the top 50 best new barbecue joints.

The details

Founder Salahodeen Abdul-Kafi implemented these efficiency strategies to uphold religious standards regarding food quality while managing the financial strain of soaring beef costs. The kitchen now repurposes excess beef fat and trimmings to ensure maximum product utility.

Kafi BBQ opened its doors in Irving in 2023.
Beef prices have increased by more than 50% over the past two years.

Culture Shift

The restaurant's inclusion in the Southern Living Top 50 best new barbecue joints list highlights its growing influence within the competitive Texas food scene. This recognition underscores a broader shift as halal-certified establishments gain mainstream culinary prominence.

Diners at the Irving location can expect the same commitment to quality despite the restaurant's operational adjustments to combat rising prices. These strategies ensure that menu staples remain available without compromising the establishment's halal certifications.

The takeaway

Kafi BBQ demonstrates how small businesses can sustain high quality by implementing innovative waste-reduction practices during periods of inflation. Consumers can support local establishments that prioritize religious or dietary commitments while navigating difficult economic landscapes.