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NewsFOX 13 Tampa BaySeptember 14, 2026Hillsborough County

TNT Burger in Tampa faces rising food, rent, and insurance costs amid nationwide inflation

Photo: FOX 13 Tampa Bay

TNT Burger, a long-time restaurant in Tampa, is struggling with surging costs for food, rent, and commercial insurance that have reduced its profit margins. Due to inflation and hurricane damage, the business was forced to close its newer South Tampa location.

Small BusinessInflationEconomyRestaurantsTampa
Read the full story at FOX 13 Tampa Bay

Why It Matters

Local small businesses face financial pressures from rising operating expenses, reflecting broader economic trends affecting restaurants nationwide.

Key Facts

  • TNT Burger opened its doors in Tampa in 2020.
  • The restaurant closed its newer South Tampa location due to a combination of inflation and hurricane damage.
  • Beef, French fries, and tomatoes have become significantly more expensive for the restaurant.
  • Operating costs including rent and commercial insurance have increased.
  • Estimates from the National Restaurant Association indicate total restaurant expenses have jumped 36 percent since 2019.
  • The National Restaurant Association estimates that 42 percent of restaurant operators were unprofitable last year.

Who's Mentioned

locationTampa“City where TNT Burger is located.”OrganizationTNT Burger“A burger restaurant in Tampa fighting surging food costs and inflation.”locationSouth Tampa“Location of TNT Burger's newer restaurant that had to close.”PersonCarolina Martinez“Co-owner of TNT Burger.”OrganizationNational Restaurant Association“Provided estimates showing total restaurant expenses jumped 36 percent since 201”