People claim to hate waiting in line, but when it comes to queuing up for food that objection doesn’t always get in the way. People are willing to stand in queues, in lobbies, in lines, outside, and down the street, just to get the eats they’re craving. Or to say they’ve noshed on the latest food trend. Though they may complain about the queue the whole way to the end, here are seven famous eating spots where people are willing to spend precious time waiting.
1. Magnolia Cupcake, New York City
Thank you, Carrie Bradshaw. Sex & the City’s resident “it” girl started the cupcake craze by taking a bite out of the sweet treats offered by Magnolia Bakery in the West Village in Manhattan. And plenty of people like to “mack on some cupcakes” (a la the Saturday Night Live skit“Lazy Sunday”) because the line for this little corner shop wraps around the block. Reviewers say, however, that it’s their banana pudding that’s worth waiting for, not so much the cupcakes.
2. Café du Monde, New Orleans
You haven’t been to New Orleans unless you’ve plopped yourself under the Café du Monde coffee shop’s green-and-white striped awning and taken a bite of heaven also known as a beignet, a deep-fried fritter served with powdered sugar on top. If you hit the café at just the right time – and you can, because this place is open 24 hours a day – you can avoid the line altogether.
3. Franklin Barbecue, Austin
Four-hour waits are not unheard of at Franklin Barbecue in Austin, Texas. With an 11 a.m. opening time, people start queuing up at 8 a.m. or earlier. Who’s hungry for BBQ before breakfast? Apparently lots of folks. And apparently the brisket is worth it. Some days a “Sold Out!” sign appears in the window before the restaurant even opens its doors – it’s up to patrons whether they care to stand in line and take their chances that there will still be food to eat by the time they get to the front of the queue.
4. Dominique Ansel Bakery, New York City
The croissant-doughnut hybrid known as the Cronut has created a frenzy. It’s an item people are willing to wait two hours in line to taste, but the bakery only makes 350 Cronuts a day. Their website even details the best time and way to queue up for this pastry. How do they keep the buzz going? Only one exclusive new flavor is offered each month. Psst: There are two lines at the famed SoHo bakery. One line for people waiting for cronuts and another line for everything else. According to some foodies, Dominique’s Kouign Amann (DKA) is even tastier than the Cronut.
5. Swan Oyster Depot, San Francisco
Oysters aren’t for everyone, but in San Francisco they draw the crowds on Polk Street. What makes the line so bearable? For one thing, being able to drink while you’re standing in it. They’re only open from 10:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and there are only a handful of seats and stools, but the fresh seafood, cold beer, and unique experience draw the crowds. The owners recommend coming early, late, or during the week if you want to avoid a lengthy wait, but they also tout the delightful side effects of a long line, like having the time to get to know your date or make new friends.
6. XOCO, Chicago
The most Tweeted restaurant opening in Chicago, Rick Bayless’s XOCO is known for its tortas and impressive hot chocolate which is prepared and served tableside. There is no popping into this restaurant unless you’re going for breakfast, which is pretty much the only time you won’t encounter a massive line.
7. Shake Shack, New York City
There are Shake Shack locations country-wide, but the one in Madison Square Park still holds the record for longest lines. Danny Meyer’s fast-food phenomenon includes separate ordering and pick-up lines, and, FYI, a secret line for custard and drinks only. It’s touted as the best burger in town (and that’s saying something in Manhattan) and half-bottles of wine. Most restaurants can only dream of this kind of attention but of course, whether your lines are long or short, smart queue management goes a long way to satisfying customers.
