First Watch is a breakfast and brunch chain with locations across the United States

First Watch is a sit-down restaurant chain that serves breakfast and brunch items from opening until mid-afternoon, typically 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. depending on location. The menu focuses on eggs, pancakes, omelets, sandwiches, and fresh juices. Unlike a quick-service counter, you sit at a table, order from a server, and pay after you eat. Most locations are in Florida, but the chain has expanded to other states including Arizona, Colorado, and the Carolinas.

First Watch does not take reservations at most locations, so you arrive and wait for a table if the restaurant is full. Peak times are weekend mornings and holidays. The restaurant is known for fresh-squeezed orange juice and made-to-order items rather than pre-made breakfast sandwiches. Prices are higher than a diner or fast-casual chain but lower than a full-service lunch restaurant.

Key Takeaways

  • First Watch operates only during breakfast and brunch hours, closing by mid-afternoon, so you cannot order dinner there.
  • You order from a server at your table and pay after eating, not at a counter, which means service is slower than fast-casual but the food is made to order.
  • The menu emphasizes fresh juices, egg dishes, and pancakes, with most items costing between $10 and $18.
  • Weekend mornings and holidays fill up quickly with no reservations, so arriving early or on a weekday gives you a shorter wait.
  • First Watch locations are concentrated in Florida but have opened in other states, so check the website to confirm there is one near you.

How to find a First Watch location near you

First Watch maintains a location finder on its website where you enter your city or zip code and see all nearby restaurants. The search shows the address, phone number, and hours for each location. Hours vary slightly by restaurant, but most open between 7 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. and close between 2 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

You can also call a location directly to ask about wait times before you go, especially on weekend mornings. Some locations post their current wait time on their website or social media. If you are traveling and want to know whether a First Watch exists in that area, the location finder is the fastest way to check.

What the menu includes and typical prices

First Watch's menu is divided into sections: omelets, eggs and benedicts, pancakes and French toast, sandwiches, and sides. Omelets and egg dishes range from about $12 to $16 and come with toast and hash browns or home fries. Pancakes and French toast cost $11 to $14. Breakfast sandwiches on bagels, English muffins, or toast run $10 to $13. Fresh-squeezed juices cost $6 to $8 for a regular size.

The menu also includes salads and lighter options if you do not want a traditional breakfast. Sides like bacon, sausage, or avocado cost $2 to $4 extra. Coffee is included with most entrees or costs $2 to $3 for a single cup. Prices vary slightly by location and change over time, so check the website or call ahead if you want to know the exact cost of a specific item.

How ordering and payment work

When you arrive, a host or hostess seats you at a table or puts your name on a wait list if the restaurant is full. A server brings you a menu and takes your drink order. You review the menu and order your food when the server returns. Most items take 10 to 15 minutes to prepare because they are made to order.

When your food is ready, the server brings it to your table. You eat and signal the server when you are ready for the check. The server brings the bill to your table, and you pay with cash or card. You do not order or pay at a counter, and you do not need to tip before you pay — you add a tip on the card receipt or leave cash on the table after you settle the bill.

Peak times and how to avoid long waits

First Watch is busiest on Saturday and Sunday mornings between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., and on holidays like Mother's Day and Easter. Wait times during these periods can reach 30 minutes to an hour at popular locations. Weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday, are much quieter. If you go on a weekday before 9 a.m., you will usually be seated right away.

Arriving right when the restaurant opens (typically 7 a.m. or 7:30 a.m.) is another way to avoid a wait. Some people also call ahead to ask about current wait times and decide whether to go now or come back later. If you are willing to eat at an off-peak time, you will have a much faster experience.

Dietary options and menu customization

First Watch offers vegetarian options including veggie omelets, pancakes, and salads. The restaurant can accommodate requests to hold ingredients or substitute items — for example, you can ask for egg whites instead of whole eggs, or fruit instead of hash browns. The menu notes which items contain common allergens like nuts and dairy, though you should always tell your server about allergies so the kitchen can take precautions.

The restaurant does not advertise a gluten-free menu, but some items are naturally gluten-free or can be made that way. Ask your server which options work for your dietary needs. First Watch is not a specialized restaurant for restricted diets, so if you have severe allergies or follow a strict diet, call the location ahead of time to discuss what they can prepare.

What to expect for cost and timing

A typical breakfast at First Watch costs $15 to $25 per person before tax and tip, depending on what you order and whether you add a drink or side. If you order a fresh-squeezed juice, add $6 to $8. A meal for two people usually runs $35 to $55 total before tax and tip. This is more expensive than a diner or fast-casual breakfast spot but typical for a sit-down restaurant.

Plan for 45 minutes to an hour from the time you arrive until you leave, including wait time, ordering, cooking, eating, and paying. On busy weekend mornings, add another 20 to 30 minutes for the wait. If you are in a hurry, First Watch is not the right choice — go to a quick-service breakfast place instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a reservation at First Watch?

Most First Watch locations do not take reservations and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. You arrive, check in with the host, and wait for a table if necessary. Call your local restaurant to confirm their policy, as a few locations may have different procedures for large groups.

Does First Watch serve lunch or dinner?

No. First Watch closes by mid-afternoon, typically between 2 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. The restaurant serves only breakfast and brunch items during its operating hours. If you want to eat there, you must go in the morning or early afternoon.

Can I order takeout or delivery from First Watch?

Many First Watch locations offer takeout, though you still order at your table or call ahead. Some locations partner with third-party delivery services, but availability varies. Check the website or call your local restaurant to see whether takeout or delivery is an option.

What if I have a food allergy?

Tell your server about your allergy when you order. The kitchen can prepare items without certain ingredients and take steps to avoid cross-contamination. For severe allergies, call the restaurant before you go to discuss what they can safely prepare for you.

Is First Watch expensive compared to other breakfast places?

First Watch is more expensive than a diner or fast-casual breakfast chain but typical for a sit-down restaurant with made-to-order food and table service. Expect to pay $15 to $25 per person for an entree, drink, and tip, compared to $8 to $12 at a quick-service place.