Things People Do While They’re Waiting in Line at Franklin BBQ

Photo credit: Courtesy Franklin BBQ

As we mentioned yesterday, Franklin BBQ in Austin, Texas draws around-the-block lines of up to 400 people on the weekends. Owner Aaron Franklin’s brisket is, devotees believe, the stuff of gold.

"I’ve been here since 5:45 a.m.," said Jimmy Bashara, the #1 person in line on Saturday. He passed the time with his iPad and some soda.

Here are other things people do when they’re waiting in line for 4-5 hours at Franklin BBQ:

Drink beer. Lots of beer. In little holsters in camping chairs. “We have to regulate pretty hard,” says Franklin. “We go out there and say, ‘Hey, drink some water! Here’s a snack!’”

Play corn hole. Like, full-on wooden-board-and-bean-bag corn hole.

Play Monopoly, “because it takes a long time,” says server Chelsey Marley.

Play Twister. Good for making friends.

Shoot off fireworks. Because the hot Texas sun isn’t dangerous enough.

Host birthday parties. ”This one family had a birthday party for their 8-year-old,” says Marley. “There were about 20 people; they cut the cake while the line was moving.”

Hold bachelor parties. ”There was this guy, the bachelor, drinking in an inflatable donkey costume,” says Franklin. “And a couple frat bro-dudes with him.”

Listen to live music. ”Some guy hired a three-piece band to play and move up the line with him,” says Marley. And Franklin says someone else had a full-on brass band. “They were so terrible. I felt bad for the neighbors.”