More than 1,400 people flocked to IHOP Tuesday to get their three free buttermilk pancakes in celebration of National Pancake Day.
The restaurant chain held the event for the fourth year in a row, encouraging customers to make a donation to the Children's Miracle Network at Shands Children's Hospital.
The waiting time reached a height of 20 minutes, with 15 to 20 parties listed at a time. Even during a midday slowdown, servers brought waters in Styrofoam to-go cups because clean glasses were unavailable.
Tony Pignone, one of two assistant managers on duty since 4 a.m., said he thought he saw lots of bills going into the giant, cardboard collection box by the entrance.
"We're trying to way outdo last year," he said. "I think we're going to well outdo $800."
Last year, the IHOP on Southwest 13th Street served more than 1,000 visitors and raised $781.
Scott Amerman and Troy Wolfer, both junior-level students at UF, said they came primarily to enjoy the giveaways.
"We heard about free pancakes." said Wolfer. "It's all about free pancakes."
Still, the two didn't hesitate to order more food.
"It's kind of cheap to go and just get nothing," Amerman said.
