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FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS office culture
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MLW Certified 2025

FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS

Fresh starts every morning, fresh futures for our people

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Restaurants
Founded 1983
Sarasota, FL
16000
Profile last updated: June 2026

Why Employees Love Working Here

Real metrics that matter to your career and happiness at FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS

89%
Love of Workplace
Emotional connectedness
24% above avg
88%
Love of Manager
Leadership trust
28% above avg
90%
Love of Colleagues
Team connection
20% above avg
4.5
Overall Rating
Out of 5 stars
1.1 above avg
91%
Would Recommend
To a friend
29% above avg

About FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS

RestaurantsFounded 1983

First Watch is an award-winning Daytime Dining concept serving made-to-order breakfast, brunch and lunch using fresh ingredients. A recipient of hundreds of local “Best Breakfast” and “Best Brunch” accolades, First Watch’s chef-driven menu includes elevated executions of classic favorites along with First Watch specialties such as the Quinoa Power Bowl®, Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, Avocado Toast, Chickichanga, Morning Meditation (juiced in-house daily), Spiked Lavender Lemonade and its signature Million Dollar Bacon. First Watch operates more than 530 FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS in 29 states. For more information, visit www.firstwatch.com.

28 Certifications & Awards

Certified Since 2022 · Featured across multiple industry recognitions

2022202320242025

Certified Most Loved Workplaces® 2024

Verified
2024

Most Loved Workplace® Certified 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® Certified 2023

Verified
2023

Most Loved Workplace® Certified 2022

Verified
2022

Global Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces®

2025

Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces® 2025

Verified
2025

Top Most Loved Workplaces® for LGBTQ+

Verified

Top Most Loved Workplaces® for Parents and Caregivers

Verified

Top Most Loved Workplaces® for Women

Verified

Top Most Loved Workplaces® for Volunteering

Verified

Top Most Loved Workplaces® for Diversity

Verified

Most Loved Workplace® for LGBTQ+ 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® for Diversity 2025

Verified
2025

Top Most Loved Workplaces® for CEOs

Verified

Most Loved Workplace® for Inclusivity 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® for Young Professionals 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® for Women 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® for Career Advancement 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® for Volunteering 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® for Parents & Caregivers 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® for Wellness 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® for CEO 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® for Disabled Workers 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® for Mental Health 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® for African American 2025

Verified
2025

Top Most Loved Workplaces® for Young Professionals

Verified

Top Most Loved Workplaces® for Career Advancement

Verified

Most Loved Workplace® for Neurodiversity 2025

Verified
2025

Most Loved Workplace® certifications are based on the SPARK model assessment of employee sentiment across 5 pillars.

Our Mission

First Watch exists to elevate daytime dining through exceptional food and genuine hospitality. We are committed to putting our people first, creating meaningful career opportunities, and building a workplace where every team member—from dishwasher to executive—can grow and thrive.

What Sets Us Apart

Chef-Driven Culture of Excellence

First Watch empowers culinary creativity and chef-led innovation across 530+ locations, fostering a workplace where food passion meets professional growth and team members take pride in elevated, made-to-order creations.

Fresh Ingredients, Fresh Perspectives

Built on a foundation of quality and authenticity, First Watch cultivates an inclusive team environment where diverse talents collaborate daily to deliver exceptional daytime dining experiences and celebrate wins together.

Community & Scale with Purpose

With presence in 29 states and growing, First Watch offers employees meaningful career advancement opportunities within a beloved brand that prioritizes team member wellbeing and creates a supportive community at every location.

SPARK Culture Insights
89/100

Why is FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS a Most Loved Workplace®?

(Based on the 5-Pillar SPARK Assessment)

our vision statement is to create amazing opportunities for our people – from a valued dishwasher to a Regional VP of Operations. We offer “Come Grow with Us” events for employees to learn about career opportunities within First Watch; in 2024 alone, we’ve invited over 3,200 team members to 11 events across five markets. FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS goal: 60% internal promotions. We know that happy…

Our Culture

The lived experience at FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS

Rise Together Every Morning

We greet each day with energy and purpose, starting early to serve guests when they need us most. Our teams rise to the occasion together, supporting one another through the morning rush and celebrating the fresh start each day brings.

Fresh Ingredients, Fresh Thinking

Freshness runs through everything we do—from the fruits and vegetables we slice each morning to the ideas and innovations we encourage from every team member. We embrace seasonal change and continuously refresh our approach to serving better.

Roll Up Your Sleeves Alongside Others

We work hard with positivity, resilience, and a willingness to pitch in wherever needed. Managers and executives aren't above any task; we face challenges and celebrate wins together, side by side with our entire team.

Kindness is Our First Language

Every interaction, from team to guest, is guided by genuine care and kindness. We serve with openness and purpose, extending compassion to colleagues and customers alike, creating a warm environment where people feel truly seen.

Purpose-Driven Work

We connect our daily work to a larger mission: elevating daytime dining and investing in people's futures. This sense of purpose energizes our teams and creates meaning beyond the transaction, making every shift feel meaningful.

Our Culture DNA

The core values that drive FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS

FreshKindnessGrowthPurposeTogetherYou FirstResilienceOpportunityCareSunshineInclusionExcellence

Life at FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS

Love Profile

The personality of our workplace

Passionate About Quality

Team members are driven by commitment to excellence, from sourcing fresh ingredients to crafting memorable dining moments that guests return for again and again.

Collaborative & Creative

First Watch celebrates individuality and innovative thinking, encouraging employees to contribute ideas and take ownership of their roles within a supportive, chef-inspired workplace culture.

Community Minded

Employees genuinely care about being part of something bigger, building lasting relationships with guests, colleagues, and their local communities while growing with a nationally recognized brand.

FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS team celebrating company culture and team success
FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS team celebrating company culture and team success
FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS employees building a positive workplace environment together
FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS employees building a positive workplace environment together

Most Loved Workplace® Pledge

Our commitment to building a loved place to work.

At First Watch, we believe that when we put our people first, they naturally put our customers first. Being named America's #1 Most Loved Workplace® reflects our unwavering commitment to creating a workplace where every team member can grow, thrive, and feel genuinely valued. That's not just a promise—it's the heart of who we are.

Our Commitments

Put People First in Everything We Do

We commit to embedding our 'You First' philosophy into every business decision, ensuring that our employees' wellbeing, growth, and dignity are at the forefront. This means competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and genuine care from leadership.

Create Pathways for Growth and Opportunity

We pledge to invest in our people's futures through mentorship, training, and clear career advancement opportunities. Our goal of 60% internal promotions reflects our belief that the best leaders are grown from within our organization.

Foster an Inclusive, Supportive Culture

We are committed to building a workplace where every team member—regardless of role or background—feels valued, respected, and supported. Our 'Love All' value means we celebrate diversity and create a sense of belonging for all.

Support Health, Wellness, and Whole-Person Care

We commit to comprehensive wellness programs that address physical, mental, and financial health. From medical and mental health support to childcare assistance and educational benefits, we care for the whole person, not just the employee.

Lead with Kindness and Do the Right Thing

We pledge to operate with integrity, kindness, and purpose. This means standing shoulder to shoulder with our team through challenges, celebrating successes together, and maintaining a safe, harassment-free workplace where every voice is heard.

Benefits & Perks

Health & Wellness

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Mental health support and employee assistance programs
  • Complimentary annual wellness memberships
  • Supplemental insurance options

Financial Security

  • 401(k) retirement plans
  • Employee discount programs on restaurant meals
  • Exclusive savings programs outside the restaurant
  • Paid vacation and sick leave

Work-Life Support

  • Childcare discounts through local partnerships
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • Educational benefits and tuition assistance
  • Career development and advancement programs

Professional Growth

  • 'Come Grow with Us' career opportunity events
  • Internal promotion pathways (goal: 60% internal promotions)
  • Leadership training and development programs
  • Mentorship opportunities across all levels

Leadership

Chris Tomasso

CEO and President

Ralph Alvarez

Chairman

Laura Sorensen

Chief People Officer

Latest News & Stories

Latest News & Stories

Updates from the FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS team

Open Positions

Join us in building the future

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Most Loved Workplace® Certified Career Page

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Supply Chain Analyst

MLW Certified
BradentonFull-time

Payroll Specialist

MLW Certified
BradentonFull-time

Facilities & Remodel Specialist

MLW Certified
BradentonFull-time

Email Marketing Manager

MLW Certified
BradentonFull-time

Staff Accountant

MLW Certified
BradentonFull-time

Don't see a perfect fit?

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Frequently Asked Questions about FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS

Common questions about working at FIRST WATCH RESTAURANTS, their culture, and benefits.

First Watch stands out through its 'You First' philosophy, which genuinely prioritizes employee wellbeing and career development. The company offers competitive benefits, comprehensive wellness programs, and a commitment to internal promotion—with a company goal of 60% of leadership positions filled internally. First Watch has been recognized as America's #1 Most Loved Workplace® for two consecutive years.

First Watch is deeply committed to internal growth, hosting 'Come Grow with Us' events throughout the year to showcase career paths from entry-level positions to Regional VP of Operations. In 2024 alone, over 3,200 team members attended 11 events across five markets. The company provides mentorship, training, and clear pathways for advancement at all levels.

All employees, including hourly and part-time staff, enjoy restaurant meal discounts, access to an employee assistance program, complimentary wellness memberships, childcare discounts, and educational benefits. First Watch also offers savings programs, flexible scheduling options, and professional development opportunities.

First Watch's mission centers on elevating daytime dining through exceptional, fresh food and genuine hospitality. Founded in 1983, the company has built its success on putting people first—both employees and customers. The core principle is to go above and beyond through kindness, informed by values like 'Follow the Sun,' 'Love All,' and 'Do the Right Thing.'

First Watch supports work-life balance through flexible scheduling, paid time off, childcare discounts, and mental health resources via employee assistance programs. Managers work collaboratively with team members to create schedules that accommodate personal responsibilities while maintaining operational needs.

Love Signals

Evidence of Most Loved Workplace® activation

40

Getting started

Based on AI analysis of your digital footprint and employer brand assets.

Badge Display

Not Found

No evidence found in recent analysis.

Career Page

Not Found

No evidence found in recent analysis.

Social Activity

Detected

Found social media post: Most Loved Workplaces® | 70 comments

View Source
Impact:MEDIUM

Review Mentions

Detected

Found mention in employee reviews: First Watch Named a Top 100 Most Loved Workplace® by ...

View Source
Impact:LOW

Press Mentions

Detected

Found press mention: PR Newswire vs Business Wire - A Comprehensive Comparison

View Source
Impact:MEDIUM

Backlinks

Not Found

No evidence found in recent analysis.

Explore More

Certified In:

Global Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces®Certified Most Loved Workplaces® 2024Top Most Loved Workplaces® for LGBTQ+Top Most Loved Workplaces® for Parents and CaregiversTop Most Loved Workplaces® for WomenTop Most Loved Workplaces® for VolunteeringTop Most Loved Workplaces® for DiversityTop Most Loved Workplaces® for CEOsMost Loved Workplace® for Young Professionals 2025Most Loved Workplace® for Career Advancement 2025Most Loved Workplace® for Wellness 2025Most Loved Workplace® for Disabled Workers 2025Most Loved Workplace® for Mental Health 2025Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces® 2025Most Loved Workplace® for Neurodiversity 2025
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This profile is based on data from LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Indeed, and the company's public career page. All certifications are independently verified by Best Practice Institute.