Restaurants

Texas barbecue restaurants turn to kiosks as beef, labor costs rise

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September 22, 2026

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Texas barbecue operators are increasingly using self-service kiosks as they contend with higher food and labor costs, according to a Hoodline report. H-E-B's True Texas BBQ, which operates at more than 40 locations, has installed kiosks that allow customers to browse menus, customize meals and place orders, although traditional counter service remains available. Customers also can order through digital channels including H-E-B's website and mobile app.

The move toward automation comes as beef prices put additional pressure on restaurant margins. The article cites data showing wholesale beef prices have increased more than 57% since 2020, while the U.S. cattle herd fell to 86.2 million head in early 2026, its lowest level since 1951. The U.S. Department of Agriculture projects beef and veal prices will increase 9.8% in 2026. Labor remains another concern, with salaries, wages and benefits accounting for a median 31.7% of sales at limited-service restaurants in 2024, according to National Restaurant Association data cited in the report.

Kiosks can help restaurants reduce front-of-house labor requirements, but some barbecue operators worry the technology comes at the expense of customer interaction. Ernest Servantes, owner of Burnt Bean Co. in Seguin, said kiosks are intended to reduce labor needs, while Brek Webber, owner of Tin Roof BBQ in Atascocita, expressed concern about losing the personal interaction traditionally associated with Texas barbecue counters. H-E-B said employees remain available to take orders, answer questions and assist customers alongside the kiosks.