Originally Posted by
CbadRider
on solo rides I put the bike right next to the front window of the convenience store if I need to go in, so I can keep an eye on it.
Unfortunately I've heard of a couple cases now where people I knew watched their bikes being stolen while they were inside a restaurant. It takes a few moments to get back outside and by then the thief is disappearing down the street. At least in one of the cases the thief did drop one of the bikes when he realized the owners were running after him.
Attaching a little cable lock doesn't take long and seems like a good idea even if you plan to keep the bike in sight while in the store or cafe.