Social Media Queues Boost Andorra Eateries, Frustrate Neighbors

Popular eateries in Andorra la Vella continue to attract long queues of customers drawn by social media buzz, benefiting some neighbouring businesses while frustrating others over blocked access and litter.

La Creperia de la Rotonda on Avinguda Meritxell remains a hotspot, with crowds forming for its crepes and the staff's playful banter—a viral TikTok phenomenon. The narrow pavement forces queues to spill over, crowding entrances to adjacent shops FotoCineColor and Records El Matiner. FotoCineColor staff report minimal sales effects but highlight navigation issues for their quieter clientele, plus litter like plates and cutlery. "Some people mess around without forming a straight line," they noted, adding that crowds obscure the storefront.

Records El Matiner owner Francesc faces greater disruption, as customers lean against his paid display window and litter clogs the entrance, especially on weekends. "It's a real pain," he said, urging the council to relocate the creperia to Parc Central. He welcomes its success but seeks municipal intervention.

Cafeteria Balanzen, further along, draws similar crowds influenced by influencers Andrea Garte and Abril Cols, with waits reaching 30 minutes or more. Customers arrive from as far as Barcelona, undeterred by cold weather or costs. Its wider pavement reduces issues, though manager Florencia awaits council guidance on queue rules. "We're pending information from the comune," she said. "Until we have that contact, none of us will direct customers on lining up." She learned of the plans via Instagram and intervenes only if tensions flare, noting the sidewalk allows free passage. Neighbouring cafeteria Can Vicenç embraces the activity. "We're delighted to have them next door," staff said. "We get along well, and there's no problem—plus, we're similar businesses with coffee, tea, and pastries."

On Avinguda Carlemany, shoe shop Krack gains from queues at adjacent L’Informal, part of the Germans Cruz group. "When there's a line, we know diners will pass by," an employee said. Families often browse or arrange pickups while waiting, despite the restaurant's three floors.

The Andorra la Vella council has held meetings with owners and plans imminent regulations on public space use, including mandatory queue management plans for high-profile spots and fines for blocking pedestrian access. La Creperia de la Rotonda has introduced signs and separators to organise lines and ease neighbour access, while Balanzen keeps queues straight. Businesses stress the difficulty of controlling individual customer behaviour.