First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. is a leading daytime dining restaurant chain founded in 1983 by Ken Pendery and John Sullivan in Bradenton, Florida. Known for its made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings, First Watch emphasizes fresh ingredients and a chef-driven menu that rotates seasonally. With over 600 locations across 32 states, including a significant presence in Miami, First Watch continues to expand its footprint while maintaining a focus on quality and community involvement.

Generating over $1 billion in annual revenue and employing 15,000 team members, First Watch is recognized for its unique daytime-only operating hours which promote work-life balance for its employees. The company’s commitment to sustainability and local sourcing, combined with innovative menu items like Lemon Ricotta Pancakes and Million Dollar Bacon, has cemented its position as a preferred daytime dining choice for consumers across the country.

When Was First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. Established?

Founded: 1983
Founders: Ken Pendery, John Sullivan
Headquarters: Bradenton, Florida, USA
Industry: Restaurant
Employees: 15,000
Annual Revenue: $1.02 billion (2024)
Locations: Over 600 restaurants in 32 states

First Watch Mission Statement

Serve fresh, feel-good daytime dining—and empower franchise partners with the training, tools, and support to deliver consistent hospitality and results.

What Is First Watch Known for?

First Watch distinguishes itself as a premier daytime dining concept focusing solely on breakfast, brunch, and lunch with fresh, seasonal ingredients and an innovative chef-driven menu.

Daytime-Only Operating Hours

Operating exclusively from 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM, First Watch offers consistent execution and a work-life balance uncommon in the restaurant industry, benefiting both customers and employees.

Seasonal Chef-Driven Menu

The menu rotates five times annually to incorporate seasonal ingredients, ensuring fresh and dynamic offerings like the popular Lemon Ricotta Pancakes and Million Dollar Bacon that keep guests coming back.

Commitment to Community and Sustainability

First Watch actively supports communities by donating proceeds from every kid’s meal to impactful organizations and sourcing coffee from women farmers in Huila, Colombia, demonstrating its dedication to social responsibility.

How Many Locations Does First Watch Operate?

First Watch operates more than 600 restaurants across 32 states in the United States, including locations in Miami and throughout Florida, with plans for continued expansion nationwide.

The brand's extensive footprint reinforces its position as a leading daytime dining concept with strong consumer appeal and growth potential.

States Where First Watch Has Locations

With operations in 32 states, First Watch has a broad geographic presence that enables access to diverse markets, contributing to strong unit economics and a compelling return on investment.

Who Owns First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc.?

First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. is a publicly traded company focused on operating and franchising daytime dining restaurants. The company is owned by institutional investors and shareholders who support its mission of fresh, feel-good dining and community engagement.

Is First Watch Currently Hiring?

You can check out the open positions that First Watch has right here on OysterLink.

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