Andorra Queues Boost Some Shops, Irritate Others

Popular eateries in Andorra la Vella are drawing long queues of customers, creating mixed fortunes for neighbouring businesses—from irritation over blocked access and litter to welcome boosts in footfall.

La Creperia de la Rotonda on Avinguda Meritxell has seen surging demand, particularly for its crepes and humorous customer banter, with lines spilling onto the narrow pavement most weekends. The tiny takeaway spot leaves patrons eating on the street, often crowding spaces in front of adjacent shops FotoCineColor and Records El Matiner. Staff at FotoCineColor report no major sales impact but note difficulties for quieter customers navigating the queues, along with occasional litter like plates and cutlery. "Some people mess around without forming a straight line," they said, adding that the crowds obscure their storefront.

At Records El Matiner, owner Francesc described a heavier burden. Customers lean against the shop window, blocking the display he pays to maintain, while litter clogs the entrance—especially problematic on busy weekends. "It's a real pain," he said, suggesting the council relocate the creperia to Parc Central. He has no issue with the business's success but wants the comune to address the disruptions.

Nearby, cafeteria Balanzen is also attracting crowds, though its wider pavement eases tensions. Manager Florencia said the business awaits guidance from Andorra la Vella council on queue management. "We're pending the information from the comune. Until we have that contact, none of us will tell customers how to line up," she explained, noting the sidewalk is broad enough not to block paths. She intervenes if tensions arise between queues and learned of the plans via Instagram, insisting on a clear start date for any rules.

Neighbours like cafeteria Can Vicenç welcome 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 serving coffee, tea, and pastries."

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

The Andorra la Vella council plans to approve regulations soon on public space use, including terraces and queue management plans for high-profile spots. Non-compliance will bring fines to ensure pedestrian access. Businesses emphasise the challenge of policing individual customer behaviour.