In a bustling metropolis renowned for its speed, the act of standing in line has paradoxically become the newest trend.
Today, it appears that New Yorkers are willing to queue for just about anything—from freshly baked bagels and trendy bowls of ramen to the elusive promise of “good vibes.”
In a place typically defined by rapid movement, the practice of waiting in line has become a cultural phenomenon seen at popular dining spots and brunch venues across the city.
What’s driving this shift? Have New York minutes unexpectedly stretched? Experts suggest that the growing trend of waiting is about more than just food.
“Restaurants have evolved into a status symbol—more than just a place to eat,” noted NYC food scene expert Andrea Strong of the Strong Buzz in an interview with The Post.
“The lines represent a blend of the restaurant’s reputation and the social prestige it offers diners when they share their experience online,” she added.
As culinary consultant Joe DiStefano observes, the phenomenon of the “big dumb line” has cemented itself as a staple of the local dining landscape. Much like the classic “Seinfeld” episode “The Chinese Restaurant,” where the main characters endure a seemingly endless wait, many New Yorkers have turned the frustration of waiting into an unexpected badge of honor.
“Lines were prevalent at iconic spots like Katz’s and Emilio’s Ballato, but post-pandemic, we’re seeing them spike in bakeries and eateries across all five boroughs,” DiStefano remarked.
Social media plays a key role in amplifying this trend.
“The impact of social media and influencer marketing on queuing can’t be overstated—just look at the buzz around Ceres Pizza following a glowing review from Dave Portnoy,” he noted, referencing one of the city’s recent viral sensations.
For many, Strong added, the wait has become an integral part of the experience.
“For Gen Z, waiting is woven into the vibe,” she explained. “It’s another chance to capture a moment for social media, showcasing the experience.”
On a recent Friday at 5 p.m., this notion was on full display on the Lower East Side, where 15 diners formed a line outside the award-winning Ha’s Snack Bar (297 Broome St.)—30 minutes ahead of opening.
With tote bags in tow, some sipped iced coffee while all shared a singular goal: securing a coveted seat at the trendiest French-Vietnamese spot known for its sweetbread vol au vent, pho-inspired onion soup, and pâté chaud.
“It’s worth the wait!” effused Gen Zer Tavitha Remo, proudly claiming her spot first in line alongside friend Louise Fong at 4:35. “Their menu changes constantly—it’s always a surprise.”
Fong expressed some hesitation, adopting a relaxed stance about the wait.
“Normally, I wouldn’t stand in line longer than 10 minutes,” she confessed. “But this feels inherently New York. Just around the corner, folks are waiting to get into a hair salon!”
As the line stretched, Natalia MacAdams had a reflective view on queuing. “I don’t generally wait in lines, but I wanted to come here. When I arrived at 5:07 and saw all these people, I chose to stay,” she shared.
“There’s something romantic about being jam-packed in a small New York venue. We tend to feel isolated, so being in close proximity—especially after COVID—is refreshing.”
Despite the lack of reservations, Ha’s Snack Bar allows bookings about 20 days in advance, disappearing as quickly as their dumpling specials.
If you’re looking for a chance, show up early and hope for a walk-in. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.—arrive by 4:45 or earlier for a chance at a table.
The thrill of the chase adds to the overall experience, asserted Dr. Deborah Vinall, chief psychological officer at Recovered; it’s about how good it feels.
“Long waits at unique venues create a sense of exclusivity,” she explained. “Many equate valuable experiences with self-worth. If something is hard to acquire, whether through a high price or long wait, people interpret it as something precious—a positive reflection of themselves.”
She added, “Social media fuels our FOMO (fear of missing out) and our desire to portray ourselves as interesting people enjoying exclusive experiences. For many, a long wait is a small price to pay for a trendy food photo.”
Meanwhile, just a few blocks away, another line formed by 6:45 p.m.—this time for the Greek staple Kiki’s (130 Division St.), where diners may wait as long as for a ferry to Santorini.
“Definitely worth the wait for Kiki’s,” declared Upper West Sider Andrea Engemann, positioned fourth in a line of about 25.
“The prices are fantastic, the cheesecake is incredible—it’s walk-in only, so putting your name down requires patience.”
“I’d even wait over an hour for the whole experience. It’s a bit chaotic but exhilarating, trying wonderful food here in New York—it’s worth the wait in line,” she added.
Her date, Filippo Massobrio, concurred—to a degree.
“Beyond an hour, I tend not to linger,” he said. “But a line usually indicates that a place has a buzz, making it worth a shot.”
Engemann and Massobrio even convinced their families to join the queue during a chilly autumn night.
Massobrio’s parents, visiting from Italy, didn’t balk at joining the “exciting” New York line.
Andrea’s mother, Amanda Engemann, who traveled from Connecticut for Kiki’s, was also game. “If my daughter says a line is worth it, I’m in,” she laughed. “I suppose patience is part of the dining experience.”
Kiki’s offers no reservations—it’s a walk-in experience or nothing.
For this group of five, waiting became a crucial part of the evening’s agenda. Andrea knew that the wait could extend “up to two hours,” so she rushed to the restaurant to secure her name on the list.
This popular Lower East Side destination serves classic Greek comfort food—like tender lamb, fresh seafood, and an array of wines—in a rustic-chic setting reminiscent of Mykonos.
Yet, the bustling energy outside serves as a reminder that you’re indeed in New York.
The following morning, a drenched line of 20 formed on Morton Street for Breakfast by Salt’s Cure—even in the midst of heavy rain. This West Village gem operates with a chaotic style: no reservations, walk-in only, order at the counter, then stake your claim on a seat.
First come, first served—and patrons rave about those much-anticipated pancakes.
Sisters Evelyn and Audrey Gray along with friend Anya Kerr made the trip from Bergen County, New Jersey, specifically to try the spot’s famed pancakes. The trio of 16-year-olds found that standing in line was no burden—it turned into a social occasion right outside.
“Waiting in line for food in New York is definitely more enjoyable than waiting at the post office,” Kerr joked. “It’s always worth it in the end.”
Her friend Audrey chimed in, “Whenever there’s a long wait, it indicates something good inside. We wait because it’s part of the fun.”
The most sought-after restaurant lines in NYC currently
Golden Diner
A globally inspired diner menu has gone viral, generating two-hour waits for honey butter pancakes.
123 Madison St., Lower East Side
Kisa
This straightforward menu featuring nostalgic Korean dishes sizzles like a summer day in Seoul.
205 Allen St., Lower East Side
Cocina Consuelo
This soulful, no-reservation Mexican joint is pulling in crowds from all over uptown.
130 Hamilton Pl., Hamilton Heights
Fiaschetteria Pistoia
Charming twin Tuscan trattorias offering homemade pasta with remarkable staying power.
647 E 11th St, East Village; 114 Christopher St., West Village
L’Industrie
These pizza offerings with a modern interpretation have become some of the most desired pies in NYC.
254 S. 2nd St., Williamsburg; 104 Christopher St., West Village
