The "decompression queuing method" sparks conflict; ramen shop pleads: don’t line up until everyone arrives

▲ Eagle Stream Tokyo Tonkotsu [GOKUJOH] sees long lines as soon as it opens each day. (Photo / Huang Shiyuan)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

The fourth branch of Eagle Stream Ramen, Eagle Stream Tokyo Tonkotsu [GOKUJOH], has been attracting queues daily since its opening due to limited seating of fewer than 10 spots. On the evening of the 9th, two customers at the front allowed four friends who arrived later to cut in line, leading to a dispute with those waiting behind. The shop posted on Facebook on the 10th, urging patrons to “absolutely not cut in line” and to “avoid queuing until everyone in your group has arrived.”

The so-called “decompression queuing method,” where one or two people hold spots for the rest of the group, is common in Taiwan but is seen as cutting by some, sparking much debate. With fewer than 10 seats at Eagle Stream Tokyo Tonkotsu [GOKUJOH], the sudden addition of four people ahead in line can suddenly increase wait times by 30 minutes, which is unfair to those who have already been waiting. This led to the clash on the 9th. To prevent such incidents, Eagle Stream Tokyo Tonkotsu [GOKUJOH] asks everyone to follow the rules: “Absolutely no cutting in line” and “Don’t queue until your entire group is present.”

Additionally, due to the limited seating, Eagle Stream requests that each guest orders at least one bowl of ramen and does not accept orders for just char siu rice, side dishes, or drinks alone. There are also other rules guests are asked to follow.

Eagle Stream asks everyone to please observe the following guidelines:
1. Absolutely do not cut in line.
2. Do not queue until everyone in your party has arrived.
3. We do not provide money exchange services. Please prepare 100-dollar bills or 50-dollar and 10-dollar coins in advance.
4. Each guest must order at least one bowl of ramen. We do not accept orders for just char siu rice, side dishes, or drinks alone.
5. The trash bins in the shop are only for used tissues. Do not dispose of outside garbage brought in, nor litter on the floor.
6. After finishing your meal, please place bowls and cups on the counter, wipe down the table with the provided cloth, and wait outside for any companions still dining. Please consider how you feel when you’re waiting in line!!
7. To ensure every guest enjoys the best-tasting ramen possible, menu items may be unavailable if ingredients run out that day. We appreciate your understanding.