Line Report: When to visit Chicago's Starbucks Roastery to avoid waits
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The second-floor line at Starbucks Reserve Roastery where a very helpful barista answered questions. Photo: Carrie Shepherd/Axios
Welcome to "Line Report," our new occasional series about some of the longest lines in the city, and whether the spots are actually worth the hype.
Why it matters: Your time is valuable. Let us help you decide when to hit the hottest spots around town ā or to skip them altogether!
First up: The five-floor Starbucks Reserve Roastery on Michigan Avenue.
Details: The Mag Mile location is the largest Starbucks in the world. Each floor offers a different experience ā coffee bar, Italian bakery, experimental coffee blends, cocktail bar and, at the top, beautiful outdoor views.
State of play: We went at 9am on a Monday, which also happened to be the first day of school for CPS.
- No line to get in and about a 15-minute line on the second floor for drinks.
Yes, but: By the time we left at about 10:15am, there was a line that wrapped around the corner of Erie.
Be smart: An employee told us the best time to come for shorter wait times is mid- to late-afternoon on weekdays.
Wait (ā³) or skip (š)?
- ā³ If you're a tourist or not in a hurry, why not for a chance to snag a beautiful window seat at the world's largest Starbucks?
Pro tip: Visit the lobby of any of the Michigan Avenue hotels and snag a cup at the continental breakfast. Tell 'em Axios sent ya!