By Mackenzie Degen

While many choose to sleep in on the weekends, a local Roland Park restaurant is at its prime time with business. Miss Shirley’s, a favorite among Loyola University Maryland students and locals in the Roland Park/Baltimore area draws in a crowd from 7 A.M. to 3 P.M. with its array of breakfast foods, drinks, and welcoming atmosphere. “I always get the pancakes,” says Loyola sophomore Alexandra D’Agostino, “and I really don’t mind the wait. It’s totally worth it.”

Whether you choose to order one of the 15 varieties of pancakes, a create-your-own omelet or a house specialty, customers agree that you won’t be disappointed. Miss Shirley’s does not take reservations, so customers often have to wait to be seated. Amanda Hollis, a sophomore at Loyola who works as a hostess, cocktail waitress and occasionally bartender at Miss Shirley’s has experienced it all. From a 15-minute wait, to over an hour, families will sit or stand in and outside of the restaurant, eager for their table. “I’ve been offered up to $50 to let people jump the line, and I’ve had to refuse because it goes against my work ethic and puts my job at risk,” Hollis states, as people will do almost anything to cut down their wait time. Although many complain about the wait time, the number of compliments outweighs the negative comments. As customers leave Miss Shirley’s, they constantly thank the workers and let them know “how amazing the food was” or “how they can’t wait to come back” in Hollis’ own words.

For those of age, the drinks are a hit as well. The most popular drink is a Bloody Mary, as it goes well with many of the meals. During the week, it is somewhat less crowded, but the most popular time of all are Sunday’s after church—for both Loyola students and the Roland Park community. In terms of an average day of work, Hollis says, “My job is pleasing all the hungry, grumpy customers—and they all leave happy."