First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. (FWRG), famed for its award-winning café-chain "First Watch", is a leading innovator in the breakfast, brunch, and lunch restaurant niche. The company has made a mark in the restaurant industry with its commitment to fresh, made-to-order food, and a friendly approach to guest service. FWRG's specialty is a rotating menu of seasonal dishes that integrates the latest culinary trends with timeless classics.
The name "First Watch" is a nautical term referring to the early morning shift, a nod to the company's focus on morning meals. The company began in 1983 with a singular mission to deliver top-quality food in a welcoming environment, personally greeting guests at the door, and mapping out a comprehensive plan to execute supreme quality on every level. FWRG has remained steadfast in this goal and continued to flourish even in today’s volatile restaurant industry.
FWRG operates more than 360 restaurants, including both corporate-owned and franchised cafés, in over 26 states, serving more than 20 million breakfasts per year. Aside from serving classic dishes and beverages, it prides itself on its unique juice bar that blends fresh fruits and vegetables into a selection of vibrant, healthful juices and smoothies.
First Watch is also a technology pioneer in the restaurant industry, introducing mobile pay, online ordering, and innovative dietary menu options in response to changing customer needs. The company has embraced environmental and socially responsible practices, which include building environmentally friendly buildings, using only cage-free eggs and sourcing their produce locally whenever possible.
Despite the pandemic that has harshly impacted the global restaurant industry, FWRG proved resilient and innovative. Part of that effort was the launch of a Family Meal Deal during the Covid-19 crisis to aid families stuck at home. This adaptation exhibited the company's extraordinary capacity for flexibility and its commitment to meet its customers' needs amid a challenging time, celebrating the spirit of togetherness.
FWRG's commitment to quality, combined with innovative thinking, a people-focused approach, and a passionate, dedicated team, has allowed the company to thrive, making it one of America’s favorite morning restaurants. Its ability to adapt and thrive in difficult situations demonstrates its staying power and customer loyalty. With the love of people to great food and growing breakfast buzz, the future seems incredibly bright for First Watch Restaurant Group and its beloved restaurants.