I have been to another location in TN several times and it was so pleasant and exceptional service. The experience at Vinings was completely different. The negative experience was caused by: our cold coffee, having to wait forever to order (while the restaurant was almost empty) and our server stood chatting with another server, no check back to see if our food was as expected or if we needed anything. Then we had to ask another server for sauce and another for a to-go box. When paying at register I mentioned the waffle was missing from the bill, he said thanks and left the bill on the counter for me to sign and literally walked off before taking it back signed. I was flabbergasted. Maybe this is typical and why there were only 4 tables taken with patrons. I was very disappointed since this was a special occasion. read more

I go to this place ALL the time. However, this morning was the absolute last time. The food is good but the lack of service at times is appalling. I asked to be seated outside and was given a table. The patio was nearly empty with literally 1 other table occupied by 2 women finishing up and asking for their check. About 10 minutes pass w/no service and I'm thinking here we go again... Sure enough the hostess that seated me comes out and seats another person. Never asked if I had been served even as I sit there with the menu in clear view. 2 minutes later a waitress comes out and goes straight to the person who was seated AFTER me to take her order. I walked out. The hostess just looked at me as I left. Didn't bother asking why. This is the 3rd time I have experienced this at First Watch in Vinings. I'm done. Hire better hosts who can communicate with the wait staff and manage to not forget about customers!!! How hard is it to make sure people are served in a timely manner? read more

Its okay breakfast. I had the b BLT egg Benedict..The hollandaise sauce was bland SO THIN.. The potatoes that came with it.. Was bland..you do have to put lots of salt. Side of bacon was $5?. The coffee was expensive $3.99 for a cup? Starbucks is cheaper. read more

OK, I've eaten at First Watch's up and down I-75 (Naples, Ft. Myers, Orlando, Cincinnati and now Atlanta) and I'm a fan. Love the menu, plenty of healthy when you want to feel good about breakfast or just had a good yoga class. Then all the waffles, pancakes and sweet stuff with eggs and meats for the classic breakfast. My favorite is usually the Florentine Benedict and I have to say this location wins the prize: poached eggs were perfect, extra spinach, avocado, tomato and hollandaise over toasted muffins all balanced just right. I also get a bran pancake which was light and nutty good. Granola Parfait is fun and good. Fruit crepes are light and healthy. Trifecta lets you choose to mix and match. Omeletes come in all flavors, love the Acapulco Express. I can't comment on lunch, I always eat breakfast here, all day. Nice relaxed atmosphere with good healthy coffee. One question though: what's with all the kids???? Jeez, it's like a bad science experiment in Smyrna. Ankle biters crawling (literally) all over the place. But we were there on Sunday so be prepared after 10AM for the loud babies (seriously, it's really not that cute when your one year old shrieks at everyone) and the booster seats. Pity the staff, they keep a happy face! read more

I waited over an hour to eat at this place, only to be egregiously disappointed! My sister and I ordered the turkey biscuits and gravy. Our food arrived quickly (our server was great) but the food was beyond horrible! The biscuit tasted like pure flour and the gravy had absolutely no taste. How can a southern restaurant mess up biscuits and gravy?! Well, First Watch succeeded. I don't recall the last time I've literally sat down at a restaurant, had two bites of my food, and then promptly left (after paying of course). I surely didn't want to pay my good money for food that couldn't even be categorized as mediocre. Just save your time and money; don't eat here! read more

I've heard about this place, wanted to try it for breakfast/brunch. It wasn't very crowded for the Monday before NYE. We were seated within 15 minutes but waited close to an hour for our food. They are extremely in need of a host/hostess that is solely responsible for checking patrons in & seating them AND a separate person to be the cashier. The poor soul at the front can't do both well - at all. It just creates an unnecessary long line to just give someone your name. When we were seated, we wanted to place our order and my husband told our waitress that she can start with us and then he would be ready. She instead went to another table, and then another one, and then she eventually made it back to us. This is probably about 10 minutes later. Orders were placed and the wait from hell began. We waited, and waited, and waited for two omelettes and a bowl of oatmeal. Nothing fancy or complicated. We noticed that the wait staff was also busy bussing tables instead of catering to the guests which was also a sign of the inefficiencies in this place. We finally got our food but several items were missing - i.e. dressing for our mixed greens, the items for my son's oatmeal to be edible (brown sugar, honey, etc), and my husband's English muffin. When the waitress came out to check to see if we needed anything, she never stayed long enough for us to tell her EVERYTHING we needed. We would say the first thing, and she would run off. Then we wouldn't see her for several minutes... finally, we just ate everything (starving by now) and she dropped off the check. It's like she didn't really want to know if everything was ok because she never stuck around long enough to get the real answer. Unfortunately, her tip reflected the service today. I am so disappointed. This looked like a great option for us. But nothing was stellar on my plate ( I had the Bacolada) for me to say, "I have to go back, even if the service sucks." I hate writing these kinds of reviews but I hope it makes them get it together. read more

Just enjoyed a late breakfast at this First Watch! It was pretty busy but no wait! Our waiter seemed a little flustered that he had a few tables sat all at the same time. But the service was excellent! The food was hot and delicious! They have a great menu with many options and they all look great. I wouldn't hesitate being adventurous when ordering. Try this place out! You won't be disappointed. read more

My husband and I decided to try this place after we saw all the reviews on here. First watch is only a few miles from us, so it was nice and convenient. It was very crowded when we got there (which was a good sign),but we only had to wait about 15 minutes for a table. From the freshly squeezed orange juice to the blueberry crunch pancakes, everything was excellent. My husband inhaled his pancakes, and he doesn't even like pancakes! Our server Sindy, was one of the best servers I've ever had, and being a former server myself, that says a lot! We will definitely be coming back! This was a wonderful hidden gem in Smyrna area. read more

We basically eat here constantly. Cindy is the greatest server we have ever had in our lifetime and that is coming from someone in the restaurant business for almost a decade. Their entire staff including Artemis treat us like family. I can not recommend this place enough. Cindy is a national treasure. read more

Great food and great service, CJ is one of the new amazing waiters, he is polite and attentive, the entire staff is very friendly and welcoming - The Millien's read more

This is, by far, our favorite breakfast place. Though there is usually a wait during peak times, it always moves fast. The food is always fresh and delicious. Their specials are unique. Their regular menu is awesome. A great date place and family venue. Tim is a wonderful manager with a servant spirit. Jada is the best, our favorite server. Go see them. You'll really enjoy it! read more

Came here for a quick breakfast. Was pleasantly surprised by quality of service. Pancakes were also good. Recommended read more

First Watch - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Smyrna, Georgia

This is a staple for us. The seasonal menu is just flat out fun and eclectic. Highly recommend for a nice, non-diner type of breakfast.

Horrible! My family and I wanted to try something new so we decided to go to First Watch. First off, our waitress was very rude and second, the food was horrible! Not to mention the price! Very pricey for very bad food. Would not recommend to anyone. read more

Yummy!!! They took over J.Christophers, and I'm very impressed. Great customer service, great food! Very healthy alternative :). Definitely try them out. read more

Waited an hour for a table for 2, saw three people walk in and the hostess (middle aged women with red hair) quoted them the time. After they said thats really long she said "let me see what i can do for you", then sat them in front of the 20 people that have been patiently waiting. So rude. Next time we will go next door instead of coming to first watch. read more

J. Whocares? This is a well run, clean restaurant with quality food and excellent service. It's one of my go to places whenever I'm in the area! read more

If you are looking for a lackluster welcome, slow arrival of food, and overdone breakfast food then this is your place. Our server, Hannah, was fantastic and could not help these other things. She was wonderfully patient and understanding when we requested to send back the pancake and bacon for being too brown and charred. The second round was not greatly improved; the second pancake was not cooked through and runny inside and the bacon was still charred. My husband and I dined around 11 am on a Wednesday and had the trifecta with side of grits and the banana bacon waffle special. Overall, it took too long to get our initial food and replacements that tasted just okay. We do not plan on returning. read more

First Watch - Banana bacon waffle special - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Smyrna, Georgia

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I hate to do it as it's 1 of the only 2 breakfast spots in the area but it's a chronic issue. Starts with the parking lot where there is never anywhere to park. Then on to the wait. Even using the waitlist on Yelp you might as well expect a quote of 30 minutes yet you wait for about an hour. Service, is mediocre and you will wait for your food extremely too long. 55minutes to be exact this morning. Did I mention that the A/C was broken and they had no fans. Too, there was no manager to be seen. I can't wait till J Christopher opens! read more

Really good breakfast food with lots of options to choose from. I love their pancakes and veggie omelet. Good coffee too. Get there early because it gets crowded fast! They also offer fresh juices which my boyfriend really likes. read more

My grandkids (ages 3-11) the food. So did I. I always enjoy brunch at First Watch!

Best place to eat in Smyrna! I love their Tri-Fecta and Kale Tonic natural juice! MUST TRY!

Ok so weve never been here before. We used to come when this was j.christophers, which was yummy. This place is a little more expensive than j.christophers but the food presentation is nicer and they taste just as good. They offer organic options on the menu which is a plus in my book. The multi grain pancakes taste just as good as regular pancakes. There coffee is really good too. Awesome service too! We will be back. read more

I absolutely hate to have to write this review because I have enjoyed innumerable dining experiences here. On April 9, 2015 I went in for a late lunch. After being seated and served our drinks I noticed a roach crawling on the wall next to me. In an effort to be discreet I beckoned for the gentleman by the register to summon the manager for me. I didn't even mention it to my server bc I figured that ultimately it's a situation that a manager could and should handle. There was a couple dining directly behind me and I was careful to not alarm them either. After about a 8 minute wait, the manager on duty, Artemus, emerged and I expressed my concern. He very nonchalantly said "so, what?! You wanna move to another table?" I politely smiled and obliged. Packing up our things and maneuvering my toddler to the next table he stood there and watched (never even attempting to assist or apologizing for the mishap). He had another gentleman come over and sweep under the table while saying he doesn't see what I'm talking about. Jeannie my server was very nice and accommodating. I decided to take my order to go and just have our juice that was already served. After asking for the check, I witnessed an exchange between my server and the mgr which I assumed was in regards to the roach that joined us by the table. The check emerged with a 20% deduction from one item. I smiled. Paid the bill. Left a 20% tip in cash for my server; after all, it's not her fault. The gentleman that rang up the bill asked how everything was and I said it would've been fine had I not had a rodent join me, he responded "oh, you saw the rat too?" Puzzled, I left. I checked with the department of health and saw that they recently had an inspection (not even 30 days prior) and were given a 96/97 rating. So I figured it was an 'off' day. Either way, feeling as though the situation was very poorly handled I contacted their corporate office who promised me a call back. I received one the next day from the Regional Mgr Kelly Clark, who apologized, assured me that pest control came out to the property and offered me a gift card. I respectfully refused the offer as I don't foresee myself dining there in future and don't want to be obligated to. He was shocked to hear that I was charged and offered to refund my meal. 12 days after giving him my credit card information via phone, this refund is yet to be seen. I really wanted to say that I was at least happy with the resolution since I can't change that the problem occurred, but at this point I'm left with no choice but to believe that the behavior displayed by the manager on duty that day is echoed throughout the entire organization. read more

I went there this morning for the second time, and it was just as good as I remember it! They have lots of healthy and delicious options, and the staff is very nice! read more

This was a place I wanted to eat at for some time now but as of today I can say I will not be returning. Service was okay nothing to brag about. Food was definitely below satisfactory levels to begin with. A 20 minute wait time followed by warm that was not warm or freshly made taste made it seem as if food had been sitting for a while. My wife asked for over hard eggs but received scrambled instead. My potatoes were burnt and under seasoned all together. Taste was bland; maybe lack of knowledge in the cooks. Not a restaurant I will recommend to anybody who knows food. read more

First Watch - Brunt hash dish - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Smyrna, Georgia

I like first watch. I go, sit, work study and read. I like the Trifecta, and the avocado toast. It is comparable to another broken egg. The staff is always friendly and accommodating. I always enjoy my experience here. read more

We went to First Watch Sunday and Monday Labor Day weekend. The manager was so incredibly accommodating!!! My father in law -who is a local celebrity in another country ate here, and secret service arrived causing a few stares. He and the staff went above and beyond to ensure we enjoyed our meal and experience. Everything was so wonderful that we came back the next morning!! I love the people and the food. Best place to eat breakfast hands down!!!!!! You will not be disappointed read more

1st visit - old coffee and cold eggs. Sigh. 2nd visit (and prob last) - Arrived during what seemed to be a slow time - only six tables occupied. We were never greeted and after waiting ten minutes for a table, we left and hit Waffle House. Missing J C's :( read more

First experienced FirstWatch out in the midwest and I was excited to find they had come to Atlanta. I really liked the old J. Christopher's that was there previously. I like the food at FirstWatch. Good fresh fruits, different menu than what you find elsewhere with plenty of healthy options. A different menu? Yes, things like cheddar bacon pancakes and turkey avacado breakfast burrito. Unfortunately I think they had a rough transition. I've personally had a good experience there but the kitchen messed up the orders of my guests in the month after it opened. Since then my friends have returned and have had good experiences. If you don't get there early, expect to have to wait. The lobby is small and crowded and if it rains there's not much of a shelter for the crowd. Free coffee while you wait. The dining room is nice but a tad bit packed in. They have an outdoor seating area for good weather use and in decent weather they cover it with a 'tent' for expanded seating. All in all, I recommend it. read more

There is nothing that I feel more empathy for than people who work in the food service industry. If you look at my track record on Yelp, not only is this my first update, but one of very few less than 3 star rating. Today, my husband and I decided we wanted to give First Watch a go before we went grocery shopping. We sat down and the service was wonderful. In my last review of First Watch we found it lacking. "Great", I thought to myself, "I need to write an update." Well... what happened next caused me to update in the opposite direction. I ordered the Bubba Benny and my husband tried the special Banana Brûlée Waffle which came advertised with "bacon infused syrup". The waffle was great, however, the so called syrup was just syrup with bacon bits in it. To give you a little background the Bubba Benny is biscuits and gravy with eggs. I took one bite, pretty good. Took a second bit, holy sh*t, what did I just put in my mouth? Charcoal? No. It was a burnt to hell biscuit. So burnt I could it practiced some slap shots with it. I'm not exaggerating. What pisses me off more than anything, we called the manager over, showed him the biscuits were burnt and all he had to say was "Yeah, they are." As mortified as he looked, he certainly didn't offer an apology, nor did he ever come back to our table again to check on us because it seemed like he was putting out several other fires that day. Not only that but the thought that someone in the kitchen thought someone in the restaurant is dumb enough to eat a burnt to hell biscuit. "I'll just cover it up with the gravy. They'll never notice." I waited a bit for my food to come back, so my husband shared his meal with me so I wouldn't eat alone. When the food came back, it was okay. The experience was diminished. What I was also looking forward to was the potatoes that come with their meals. I happen to enjoy them. I would of enjoyed these if they even bothered to cook them, at all. Another blow to my hungry stomach. The suffering was over, our bill was brought. We go to pay upfront, manager asked how the redone food was in a manner that made him seem defeated, but also agitated. We tipped our server well because she did a great job, but unfortunately you won't see my face there anytime soon. Before I get off my soap box, I work in customer service for a living on a Supervisor level. Nothing grinds my gears more than apathetic management. Nail in the coffin for me and First Watch. read more

I was here last Sunday with my friend and it was an awesome recommendation. We both had the smoked salmon special and it was amazing! It was busy but they get you in and out so fast. It was our 2nd time at this location and we will be making it out monthly brunch place! read more

Food is amazing! The only reason why I gave it 4 stars is because the portions are a bit small, but overall this is a great place for brunch! read more

I don't like this place very much. When I first tried First Watch in Vinings, I was excited! I thought this place was the answer to my prayers for a cute café to frequent for lunch. Unfortunately, I become more and more disillusioned every time I eat there. The food is... okay. I had the Broccoli Cheddar Soup and the Roast Beef and Havarti Sandwich. The soup was warm-- not hot. And the sandwich was underwhelming to say the least. The worst part is, I spent about $17 including tip. The ambiance is nice enough, albeit a bit chilly inside the restaurant. The coffee always smells good--maybe I'll stick to the breakfast menu next time. read more

My friend and I waited 40 min for our table. We were excited to try this place and very hungry. We both ordered the crab and asparagus omlette . Once we got our food and ate through it , we both agreed it was bland. As we left the restaurant, we noticed a picture on the wall of the crab & asparagus omlette . It shows fresh tomato's, full length asparagus , cheese, lump crab meat and hollindase sauce. Ours had canned tomatoes, chopped asparagus, and what tasted like canned crab meat. Very dissapointed. Guess I'll stick to what I know, WEST EGG!! read more

I like the food but portion size is so different when you order out. If you dine in 1 meal can feed 2 but if its take out. Not the same.

This is near us, so it has become our go-to brunch place. Before, it was a little pricey compared to other places that we've been to; however, they just started a you-pick-2 plate, which is great for us because you get half size portions (we aren't big eaters), and the price is competitive! Food was delicious! She got a sandwich and the pecan salad - both were great! I've had their Eggs Benedict before which I love. Their omelettes are good too. Overall, great food if you're looking for a local brunch place! read more

This is place has great food with a wonderful ambience. Couple and family friendly atmosphere. The kale juice is a must!

We LOVE this place!!! The staff is so nice and the food is incredible! The healthy food is good, but I highly recommend trying the million dollar bacon. read more

Love First Watch! The Fruit Crepes - - nothing better!!!! I too am from Sarasota. . . . so good to have some real home cookin'!!!