Skip to contentSkip to footer
employer cover photo
employer logo
employer logo

First Watch

Engaged Employer

First Watch reviews

Cranial Rectosis - Operations Manager First Watch Employee Review

1.0
Aug 25, 2014
Operations manager
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The pros? Pretty much just the schedule, and then only parts of it. Some managers come in as early as 4:30am, most are in by 5:30 or 6. You are however usually done by 5pm (though some RVPs find ways to keep you later. )

Cons

The RVPs are complete hypocrites. The usual contradictory direction from upper management is taken to a whole new level here. The "open door" policy is a complete sham. Your salary looks fine until you break it down to an hourly wage (most of the cooks do better.) The turn over among managers is higher than anywhere I've seen in my 15 years in the industry.

Explore other reviews about First Watch

5.0
Jul 5, 2026
Marketing manager
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great Place with Great People

Cons

None really. Everyone was nice to work with and respectable

avatar
First Watch Response
2w
Thanks for your 5-Star review. We’re so happy you chose First Watch as your employer and enjoy the environment and people you work with! Thanks again for the review – we appreciate you.
3.0
Jun 5, 2026
Server/hostess
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The store is only open until 2:30 so you’re guaranteed your nights off. The menu is fairly easy to learn and the seasonal menu doesn’t change that often.

Cons

Could be my stores location, but we are constantly fighting for hours and tables. There’s not enough income for all here. And when it’s brought up to management they say it’s our “slow season” but turn around and hired three more servers. Also the meanest clientele that I have ever worked with. Very demanding with little patience, and either bad tips ($2-$4) or no tips at all. Especially on large parties. I have spoke to many employees who have worked 3+ years for the company and many of them want to leave. Too often those that don’t do their work are rewarded and it’s put on the shoulders of those that do.

avatar
First Watch Response
1mo
We appreciate your feedback here. While we're glad you enjoy the daytime-only hours, it's helpful to understand your concerns too. If you wouldn't mind calling our anonymous employee hotline at 844-484-8963, we'd love to follow up and better understand and address your concerns where possible. Any feedback helps us, and we're grateful for yours.
See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All
Related searches: First Watch jobs | First Watch salaries | First Watch benefits | First Watch interviews
First Watch reviewsFirst Watch Operations Manager reviewsFirst Watch review