after visiting Santa Fe teaching zoo and after eating at Other First Watches. I had to try Gainesville Florida. Not disappointed.great service ,great food and of course the price.i got the 1/2 sandwich and 1/2 salad. I took most of it home read more

Lots of parking and close to hotels. Very open well lighted space, lots of windows. Outdoor seating was available and they have a coffee bar. I thought was cool but we got a table. Lots of healthy options if that's your game. Service was very good. You get your own coffee pot and water bottle. Nice. We got the chicken pesto power bowl and a turkey egg wrap. The bowl was nice and hot with roasted tomatoes, quinoa, and kale and carrots. Super yummy. The wrap also good, my better half was less enthusiastic about it than I was about the bowl but solid. Probably coming back tomorrow. read more

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Stopped in to First Watch as it was close to my hotel. It wasn't too busy on a Friday morning at 8, very pleasant decor and feel. Service was fantastic. The avocado toast was quite good, and I tried the "Million Dollar Bacon" which is somewhere between regular bacon and a candied bacon. Good balance, delicious. Bottomless cup of coffee. I will come back! read more

Great portion size! To be completely honest, I have avoided going to chain breakfast spots for a very long time because I always leave feeling hungry and broke. First watch can be on the pricier side but I was pleasantly surprised with the size of the portions and to find out that drip coffee is free refills! I got the market skillet hash (great option without egg if you're trying Veganaury). We were a larger group and sat outside to avoid the wait. Though it was a colder morning, they had the heaters on which definitely made breakfast manageable. Our waiters were absolutely lovely and made sure we were well taken care of even if we were sitting outside. The Gainesville location is definitely one of the better ones and I'm excited to go again! read more

First Watch - Market skillet hash - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

This was at breakfast time, and surprisingly they weren't that busy like when I usually come in. I was standing in line waiting to be seated for breakfast while the customer in front of me was paying her check. We were the only two people standing up front. A couple minutes later, an elderly couple came in after me. (They were cute as both were wearing pink). The server (it wasn't a hostess) ignored me and asked the elderly couple "two?". I was STANDING IN LINE NEXT. I looked at her and politely, and quietly, said, "I was already here first". She offered no apology but instead was annoyed. She sat me and did not say another word. I sat down for 2-3 minutes then decided that I don't need this negativity and got up to leave prior to meeting my server. Another server came over and I told her I was leaving because of how I was treated. I asked if she was going to be my server because I didn't want the other server. (The other server purposely didn't seat me in her section). I ordered my meal, coffee, water, and mentioned that when I am leaving, I will be ordering the Kale Tonic. I clearly said, "When I am leaving". Less than half way thru my meal she had a tray with about four drinks (for other tables I presumed). She said she was setting the check down so I wouldn't have to wait for it (strange comment since I was still eating). Somehow, without me noticing this part, she sat the Kale Tonic (in a To-Go cup) down as well. So now, I have the coffee and water that I ordered for dining in AND a third drink that I wanted as I walked out the door. I do not want my To-Go drink setting there with melting ice for 15-20 minutes. The drink was for me, but what if I was taking it home to a family member, and it was already melted. This atmosphere is unpleasant. I will no longer order anything To-Go at any restaurant, while I am placing my dine-in order. I was trying to be helpful to her when I mentioned it in the beginning. All it did was hurt me. When she sat the drink down, without me seeing it, she was obviously gone, and I couldn't remind her that I wanted to take it with me when I was leaving. So, there I sat finishing the other half of my meal feeling unheard. (I was already ignored waiting in line to be seated. Not sure how the other server didn't see me when there was only the elderly couple and me IN FRONT of them). I tipped on the entire meal including the Kale Tonic and even over-tipped to be nice. This meal was $26 before tax. The food here is mostly good. The Kale Tonic is amazing, but I doubt I'll come back after being treated this way. When will restaurants realize that staff needs to be welcoming and attentive. I know customers can be a pain to deal with, but I'm not one of them. read more

I won't be going back!! Although service was pretty good the three times I've eaten there but the food could use some work the potatoes were dreadfully over seasoned, read SALTY, even when asked to lighten up on it. The " Million Dollar Bacon" wasn't worth $1.00! I had a Bloody Mary on one trip with their signature mix it was awful. It came with a "Million Dollar Bacon" strip that was only cooked on one side. I did not appear that much care was taken in plating the food either. The ambience of the place was alright, much like a 100 other restaurants. read more

I've been to locations in Knoxville & Orlando and it's a hit or miss. I think I caught First Watch on a good day, and it did not disappoint! I started with the Morning Meditation drink--a gorgeous mix of citrus and beet juice that was as refreshing as it was Insta-worthy. For my main dish, I had the Bacado Omelette, which was soft, fluffy, and packed with creamy avocado goodness. The side of potatoes had fantastic flavor, but they could've used just a little more time to get tender. The real MVP, though, was our server--attentive, friendly, and so engaging they made the meal feel extra special. Pro tip: make sure to "get in line" through their app or online before heading over. It's a popular spot, so you'll save yourself some wait time. read more

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For the last brunch of 2024, my friend and I decided to stop in for a bite and drink. This location is directly in front of the Target with its own designated parking lot. We went on Sunday around 12:30pm and it was packed. I know this location has been open for a month or so now but wow. Surprisingly, I was told for seating it would be 20 minutes but thankfully, there were 2 open seats at the bar. The inside is smaller than expected but they do have patio seating as well. Our bartender/server was very personable and friendly as we looked over our drink menu. I got a mimosa and my friend got the cinnamon toast cereal milk which is a coffee and rum based drink. She said it was very good like a spiked iced coffee. I love that LaMarca is the prosecco used for the mimosa. After looking over the menu, we decided to order. I wanted to try something different than my usual Trifecta breakfast and per the recommendation, I went with the biscuits and gravy with fruit as the side. Our food took some time to come out as it was pretty busy. My biscuits and gravy was a little lackluster for me. I was expecting the gravy is be more creamier and rich but it looked like a light roux/broth. The gravy had bits of turkey sausage that was seasoned well, but the gravy itself was not my favorite or what you would think as a traditional white gravy. I wanted it to more peppery tasting but instead it was very light in flavor. The biscuits were grilled or toasted very well and were flaky. That literally saved this dish. The eggs were cooked perfectly to my preference which is softly scrambled. The fruit bowl was fresh and had pineapples, blueberries, and grapes. I do look forward to the additional location in front of the Oaks Mall as it seems like it may be more spacious. Overall, I love First Watch and will return but maybe I will stick to the rivers and lakes that I'm use to with this place. read more

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A solid choice for casual brunch! I've been to a couple of FW in Virginia and Florida and their food has always been consistent. Definitely generous portion sizes that are easy to share and some fun options too. We enjoyed the blueberry pancake, carrot and pecan pancake, and biscuits and gravy. Our waitress was super nice and energetic and we were also seated quickly. An easy choice if you're looking for a no fuss meal! read more

First Watch - Pancake - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

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First Watch always has delicious and consistent food, and this location was no different! Our server was very accommodating with changes to menu items and the food came out pretty quickly. The ambiance is very cute and has plenty of seating. It does not ever feel like I'm eating chain food when I come here! read more

First Watch - Trifecta with chocolate chip pancake, chicken sausage patties, and scrambled eggs with cheese - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

The superfood kale salad is TOO DIE FOR! I ordered the half salad paired with a half Monterey club sandwich and it was absolutely perfect. My mint mocha coffee was also delicious. It was sweet but not overwhelmingly so. The others in my group ordered classic breakfasts. It was delicious, but felt a little pricey for breakfast. The service was fair. Definitely expect a long wait to get seated since the restaurant is so popular right now. I recommend putting your name down then killing some time at Target! read more

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The staff is nice, the food is good. The restaurant is clean. Although the food is good, we spent $35 for two gravy biscuits, it is a little pricey for me. read more

Been to several First Watch restaurants from Ohio to Georgia now in Florida. Was down for the Florida Tennessee game and went to breakfast at the Archer Rd location. Would rate this more a 4.5 star than 4 but Yelp doesn't have that as a selection. Our server was Jackson who greeted & sat us at a table on the covered outdoor patio. Very cool vibe with lots of space as well as a bar area for those patrons who like that type of dining. The food was very good! I had the Power Wrap which came with a nice helping of fruit to complement the meal. The burrito was nicely constructed and flavorful. My wife had the Elevated Egg dish which was a nice helping of food! She said is was fantastic! Definitely will put this on the to do again list the next time we are in town for a game! read more

First time eating here, and it was a real disappointment. Sat down and there were flies all over the place. The server brought a jar of water with crud on the inside of it (and carried it with her thumb on the mouth of the jar). Asked for new water - one server took the old jar away and another server brought the exact same jar back, still with the crud and thumbprint. Food took a long time. Eggs ordered over medium were either over easy or over hard. Bacon was overdone. Server never came by to ask how the food was, but did manage to come over to drop off the check. Very expensive for a mediocre breakfast. Won't be coming back. read more

Now that they've been open longer its not as hectic - but I also came on a week day and ate outside. Lovely outdoor patio with heaters for when it's cold and fans for when it's hot. Service was much quicker this time and food was still wonderful. The trick is to come.during a weekday as it's packed on the weekend. read more

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First time coming to a First Watch restaurant. We were seated within minutes and the server was quick to take our order and bring everything out. What you should try: Eggs Benedict BLT Style served with a salad on the side but can be substituted for potatoes. Absolutely delicious!! For Kids: The Kids pancake is perfect for little ones to share since it's very big. The kids half waffle with fruit perfect for one kid. read more

Great food, great service, comfortable atmosphere and a good value. I have been to 4 or 5 different locations and they are consistently great. I will go again next time I find myself near one. read more

I love First Watch and was happy that there is finally one here in Gainesville. I went on a Friday morning with my husband on a Friday morning and even though it was somewhat busy we got seated right away. Our server was amazing and the food was great just like other First Watch's I have been to in Florida. I had the Trifecta meal with a pancake and chicken sausage(which is my fave) and a cold brew coffee which was delicious. My husband had an omelette with breakfast potatoes and a kale drink (his fave). The only issue I had Was I felt the space was small and the tables were too close to each other. read more

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Since it opened near Target, this First Watch location has remained packed with people on the weekends, especially for brunch. I went on a late Sunday morning with two people. While we had to wait for a table, it wasn't too bad, maybe 20 minutes. With so much going on everywhere inside, our server was really impressive with her attentiveness and attitude, especially when I could tell she was swamped with tables. I ordered one of the seasonal specials, the SoCal Breakfast Hash, which was hash browns topped with bacon, grilled sliced chicken breast, house-pickled sweet peppers, black beans, Monterey jack cheese, two scrambled eggs, fresh-sliced avocado, pico de gallo, cotija cheese, scallions, and drizzled with jalapeño crema. I was surprised at the large portion and with the amazing flavors of the grilled chicken, mixed with the savory bacon and fresh pico, on top of the creamy jalapeño crema. I would definitely order it again. There were so many other tasty-sounding menu options that I foresee checking out First Watch again soon. read more

First Watch - SoCal Breakfast Hash - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

We were on a trip to family thanksgiving in Georgia and stopped here for breakfast on our way from the Villages in Florida. It was pleasant outside so we chose to be on the patio. Our waitress came out and took beverage order and whisked away to get drinks. A personal pot of coffee, and water carafe with two water glasses and two cups were brought and she took our food order and off she went again speedily hurrying to her next appointed task. The hot and tasty food arrived in a matter of a few minutes, or so it seemed, and we dug into the huge servings. Biscuits and turkey sausage gravy with eggs and potatoes cooked just right gave me plenty of food nd a half biscuit and gravy to take for the next day. My wife's pancake , eggs and bacon filled her up and I also had half of her cake. All was good read more

First Watch - Pancake, eggs and bacon filled her - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

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My parents & I met at First Watch on Sunday, Feb 16 at 12:30. I had no idea that FW would be as busy/congested as it was. I'm not sure if this was the grand opening weekend but as an FYI be prepared to wait for at least 45 minutes. I also learned while waiting that you can put your name on a waiting list online before arriving to the restaurant!! After our unexpected long wait, our waitress was great! Food was okay, as you can see pictured; nothing too fancy. We sat outdoors so the ambiance was great for people watching :) I'd go back again with the hopes of trying something else on the menu that will WOW me & with a shorter waiting period. read more

First Watch - The traditional breakfast (classic favorites) - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

Visited 1st watch before in Clearwater Fl. Which was way better in there preparation of the breakfast. The salad greens were very wilted and old looking. Not very tasteful. My eggs which I asked to be over easy was over medium. All in all we will not return to the Gainesville 1st watch. read more

First Watch - Avacdo toast - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

We have seen this place several times seemed busy and clean . Didn't know it was mostly breakfast place and we went for lunch. Menu wasn't for us and we left. Maybe for breakfast but there lunch menu was almost breakfast again. Two stars for limited lunch choices. Dont care much for breakfast food twice a day and a salad is not for me. read more

First time at the Archer road location. Great food and service! Find Michelle she's amazing.

Another great brunch spot in Gainesville. The breakfast potatoes and pancake were sooooo delicious. For a Friday at 11 am, the whole restaurant was packed but we got our food within 10 minutes of ordering. It was great! The menu has tons of options, the coffee was also really good. The inside is very clean and overall was a great first experience. read more

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A bit overpriced. Acoustics were bad. Hard to have a conversation. Food was good - service was good.

This is a place that really shines at breakfast options. Their Floridian French Toast is a "treat" to be savored. The avocado toast plate should receive a two thumbs up!! Suggestion: go with a "friend of like mind" order both and share for the ultimate breakfast finished with their iced coffee mocha. read more

First watch is first stop when you're meeting friends for brunch. Great drinks. Great service

The food is good but they are seriously lacking customer service. I came last Wednesday because online it says that the restaurant has Wi-Fi. I came and there was no Wi-Fi. I was told that the manager had forgotten to call and get it hooked up. I had already ordered so I stayed, but I had my backpack and laptop with me to sit at the bar and do some work. I pretty much wasted my time. I waited and called on Sunday to ask if the Wi-Fi had been installed yet for customers. The man on the phone said "yes" so I came the next day only to be told again that there was no Wi-Fi for customers. They were extremely unapologetic and didn't care to hear that a customer came all the way there for something that they do not offer even though the customer had been told they offer it. read more

Ok, here goes: service was excellent, ambiance had a neat look but too loud. The food was marginal at best and this is the problem. The potatoes were under cooked, the salmon frittata had old tiny flakes of salmon and the French toast was dry. None really had any flavor, all were super bland, the fruit cup was soaked in lemon juice and super tart. The signature drinks, blazing dragon and purple haze were overly sweet. Bottom line they need a chef. Someone actually culinarily trained. read more

The purple haze drink is gorgeous and delicious the seasonal lavender french toast was my favorite! Their service is always nice and quick but not too fast so the food comes out fresh. The ambiance is friendly and clean read more

Food, drinks and service were great. No matter where this company is, they consistently deliver.

We got here right as it opened and we travel a lot so we know about First Watch. Tiffany took very good care of us and was so personable and kind. Then food was excellent as always- I had the farmhouse hash and my partner had the BLT Benedict. The music was joyful and the decor and lighting is really fun and inviting. Love the big windows letting the light in. Coffee is good too. Great experience. read more

First thing waited almost 10 minutes to even get spoken to by a server. We got sat at a table with a broken foot, and of course coffee was spilled everywhere. They just shifted us to the table next to it, cleaned up the mess, then sat a new couple at the broken table as if nothing happened...... Summary: Poor service, broken furniture, and poor management Update: and we are both dealing with food poisoning now. STAY AWAY!!!!! read more

Service was good, my boyfriend and I also loved the look of the place. Breakfast tacos were amazing! Definitely give this place a try. read more

First Watch - breakfast tacos (with no pico) and million dollar potatoes on the side - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

Food was really good, service was below average. If the patrons drink is empty you should fill it, and the patron should not have to ask, repeatedly. read more

Food and service great for this new restaurant. However, the music was terribly loud. I mentioned to manager and said I had to turn hearings aids way down, but wouldn't be able to hear friend's conversation. He was unconcerned and said they turned it up loud so customers couldn't hear others' conversation. Not a good attitude for a manager of a new restaurant. Hope they consider that those with hearing disabilities should be welcome. read more

I went to this restaurant with my daughter and we did not have a good experience! the food was VERY bland in comparison with a cardboard box the food had NO seasoning what so ever THE ONLY eye catching thing is the ambiance.The service was decent considering the business.!!!AGAIN I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS RESTAURANT!!! read more

I checked in at 10:40 am, host tells me it would be a 15-20 minute wait. I recieved a text message confirming we were checked in. 30 minutes later we have not received a message so I walked back over to the host asking how much longer, to which she now responds, I will check you in now, it will be about 20-30 minutes! That is insane read more

I've been to First Watch twice now. Each time had the lemon ricotta pancakes and a side of bacon. I really enjoyed them both times. I also tried 2 specialty drinks. The seasonal Blue Booster which was not as sweet with a pleasant blueberry flavor and the Purple Haze which was sweeter. Both were good but I preferred the Purple Haze. I have sat inside and outside. Inside was nice due to the cold weather, but it was loud. I would choose outside weather permitting. The service was satisfactory. read more