Show the interviewer that you are reliable, even when your circumstances get in the way. Your reaction is the only thing you can control sometimes. Give an example of some sort of interference on the way to work, like a traffic accident or broken down car. Here's a good way to respond:

"I was working an opening shift and there was a huge accident on my way to work. I knew it was going to make me late. I called a couple of coworkers to see if they could come in earlier, and then I called my boss. I did everything I could to make sure someone was there to open the restaurant."

Show that you care about your work and strive to be dependable. Explain the effort you take to ensure your lateness will not have a ripple effect on everyone else at work.