CHEF data by YCharts So what The strong beat in sales and earnings is a relief, after the consumer price index report for June showed rising inflation for food costs. Investors should continue to monitor the pace of inflation, as The Chefs' Warehouse operates with minimal profit margin and could be sensitive to sharp rises in food costs. What happened The Chefs' Warehouse (NASDAQ: CHEF) surprised investors with significant outperformance over analysts' expectations in the second quarter.