First Watch... it seems trendy, it's at Crocker Park, it's packed on weekends, its food is just ok. I want to love First Watch - it seems like the ''in'' thing to do - it's not super expensively priced but it seems like it would be the selection of those with more ''discerning'' tastes. But the taste? It comes up bland a lot of times. I've been to this location and the one out by Whole Foods on the east side. That location would probably get an extra star - their food comes out piping hot and seems to haven been salted for flavor (what an idea!). This location? Not so much. My food is always lukewarm at best and nothing tastes that good. I've had their special - the Huevos Rancheros - and it's ingredients are delightful, but I could make a better dish at home. I must mention that yesterday morning we got a free entrée for the boyfriend's birthday (just join the Sun eClub online for your very own). And the food was again - just ok. He had muesli pancakes (a new addition to the menu) and I had the Bacado Omelet with egg whites. When I went to log calories after that meal I was pleasantly surprised that nutritional info was available on First Watch's website but then I was abruptly slapped in the face by the 75, yes SEVENTY-FIVE grams of fat just in the omelet I consumed. Be careful what you order. Some final tips - 1. If you must wait on a Saturday or Sunday morning, grab a coffee at the front (its complimentary, a nice touch) and snag one of the cushy arm chairs (it makes the wait seem way shorter). 2. If you choose wisely (read: not the Bacado omelet), you can get a healthy breakfast, brunch, or lunch here. 3. Parking is available around the corner by The Gap & Coach or you can snag a spot in the parking garage directly to the right of the building. 4. Join the Sun eClub (a free meal awaits you). read more

Such a cute little brunch spot at Crocker Park! They recently updated the decor and it's so rustic and adorable. The food is fresh and delicious. Love the omelettes! Service is quick and friendly. They're only open until 2:30, so they focus only on brunch/breakfast. read more

First Watch - Bacado omelette! So good!! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Westlake, Ohio

I have been going to this establishment for over two years and I have a great experience every single time. The service is almost always amazing. All servers are super attentive and hospitable. And I love that they always have a kettle of coffee when they first come to your table because I am a girl that needs her coffee. The menu is expansive and has something that everyone would love to eat. When I feel like eating right, I get either the Healthy Turkey omelet or the Tri-Athlete omelet. Both are cooked with egg whites and filled with delicious, high quality meats, cheeses, and veggies. They are super filling without the guilt. When I feel like not counting calories, I get the chocolate chip pancakes. These pancakes are massive. We're talking almost a full 12 inches in diameter! And you get two of them (I don't think I'm brave enough to get 3). They are so fluffy and delicious and worth every single calorie I'm sure they're loaded with. If you haven't tried First Watch, I suggest you try it. Though it is very busy on the weekends, it's worth the wait! read more

Super cramped seating, your practically sitting on the table next to you. Just an overall poor dinning experience that is bested by the other options in the area. read more

We had brunch at First Watch this morning. We booked in advance online and we were seated within 5 mins. After that things went downhill. We waited nearly an hour for our food. It was just two of us. I ordered the tri-fecta and my husband ordered the market hash. His food was perfect which was good since we ended up needing to share it. My waffle arrived undercooked, cold and looked like it had been sat on. After such a long wait to get subpar food I was very disappointed. Our waitress apologized, comped the waffle and gave us another one which somehow only took 10 mins to make. We had to take it to go since by then my husband was done eating and we had other places to be. Like many people have said in other reviews, plan to spend most of your morning waiting and don't have high expectations. read more

I sometimes reward myself for getting out of bed early on Saturdays or Sundays with a breakfast trip to First Watch--which is to say that I really don't go to First Watch all that often. I've never waited there when there are crowds (and it does get crowded during weekend brunch times). While the waiting area looks comfortable enough with free coffee and big couches, Brio and Cheesecake Factory are alternatives with substantially more dining space. The dining room, while your basic diner, exudes a sunny and pleasant atmosphere. There is free wi-fi, but you have to access it through a splash screen and login. I think the main advantage First Watch has over the other Crocker Park brunch locales are the healthier options available. I enjoy the Tri-Athelete Omelet, and there is also the Oatmeal if you're looking for something even lighter. I haven't had much of the lunch/sandwich fare--if only First Watch were open for dinner. read more

Ive been to at least 30 First Watch restaurants around the nation and this is the slowest service of all the restaurants Ive patronize in the franchise my pick up was over 10 mins late ... this is the slowest over all my pickups ever and to add too it, there was a side of condescending racism from one of the employees, she was extremely rude at first and tried to clean up her attitude when I gave a look of displeasure at her as she ask why we were there today, I like the franchise as a whole but this experience was subtly disturbing. read more

Sorry I have to massively disagree with the positive reviews. The food is just lousy. I would rather eat at home and I am really great cook. Every location, all 4 times I tried it. Dry breakfast potatoes and I was not impressed with anything I ordered. There is NO need to rise early to beat the crowd... Save your dollars from this over hyped, Yuppified( I AM a DIWK type yuppie) gathering place and head over to Bob Evans, George's in Cleveland, Joe's in Rocky River, The re opened Big Egg in the Detroit Shoreway, The Cafe at the WSM, The Coffee Pot in Lakewood, Two Dad's Diner, Lucky's Cafe in Tremont, The Original Pancake House,Cracker Barrel or Waffle House ANYWHERE! honestly, I have NO idea how this place survives... read more

Good Food, Great Service. However the prices could be better. The employees seem to keep busy which is important.

I love this place. I was so excited when one opened up in Crocker Park. Best part about First Watch? Free coffee while you wait! I don't mind waiting for that very reason. I find the food and the service to be very consistent...always good. I have never had a bad experience here and even my mom, who doesn't really venture out to new restaurants tried this for the first time and loved it! Oh and I also like that there are healthy options that don't taste like cardboard. That is all. Yum :) read more

Great food but had to wait an hour and a half for a table on a Sunday at 11:15 even with checkin. Kitchen was 25 - 30 minutes behind for a ticket. Couldn't wait any longer. read more

Went on Monday morning, restaurant packed but no wait time. Average service. Food was absolutely delicious. Lots of choices which include avocados in the dish. I had an avocado bacon cheddar omelette. Their toast is also really good. A whole pot of coffee was left at the table just for me. Definitely our new favorite breakfast place. read more

This is a great breakfast spot. Food is high quality and service is great. It's hard to get a table during prime time....

This place was jumpin', even at 1:30pm on a Friday afternoon. Doesn't anyone have to work in Westlake? I was in town for my friend's wedding and came here for some post-rehearsal brunch with the other bridesmaids. SERVICE: Fast and friendly. PARKING: This place is part of Crocker Place which has a free parkade. I don't think parking is such an issue in Cleveland, but us Californians just could not get over the free parking :) FOOD: I ordered the Bacon and Onion Hash and it was soooo good. The perfect portion. The bacon was crispy and savoury. The potatoes were perfectly al dente with just a little give, not too much. The onions were sweet and carmelized. All of this was brought together with a bit of cheddar, not too cheezy. It came with a side of fruit, which was great. Loved it. It also came with an English muffin which I could have done without, but it was nice and warm. Crispy on the outside, soft and buttery on the inside. CLEANLINESS: The kitchen is open and looks very clean. The bathrooms are clean, which is always a good thing. This place reminds me a lot of Cora's, for those familiar with it. read more

Excellent friendly staff, fast food. Loving eating here, I don't think I have ever had a bad meal here. Sometimes the wait sucks, but that's why it is at Crocker Park, to walk around. read more

First Watch - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Westlake, Ohio

Came in for a late breakfast and I don't have many complaints. We tried one of their juices from their juice bar which had an interesting flavor to it. Overall the food was pretty good. It wasn't anything over the top but it was good. Since they say they are good for brunch I wish they would serve mimosas or bloody marys. Either way everything was good and you can tell that the fruit and vegetables are very fresh. Gotta love the fresh produce! read more

First Watch - Pineapple cooler from the fresh juice bar! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Westlake, Ohio

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First Watch is a great place to go to if you want good healthy breakfast. I've only gone in the mornings but I have not been disappointed yet. This is not the place to go to if you want something quick. There is usually a wait before you're seated, but it's worth the wait. I love their A.M superfood bowl and I sub the almond toast with avocado toast. My favorite thing to get it. Their portions are perfect. Their service is great. I never leave feeling unsatisfied. I highly recommend First Watch for someone who is looking for a good healthy breakfast. read more

The food and price are great! It's nothing flashy but if you're in for some traditional American breakfast fare, this is a good place. Just make sure to get there early or mark your name down because the line does get long. The hosts are not the most friendly but the food makes up for it. We also got a nice waitress...so that helps too. read more

Always delicious and farm fresh! Great atmosphere, gives off a farm-to-table vibe. My only complaints are the prices (though justified for high quality food) and the long wait times on weekends. read more

Ordered takeout for special breakfast - picked it up and realized wrong order was given to me after I got home. Major hassle to take back and wait long time again for order to be remade. Not worth it for the high price and sloppy service!! Check your takeout and don't expect them to get it right the first time!! read more

I have been patronizing 'FirstWatch' for years, both the Westlake and the Rocky River locations. The breakfast is very good, with fresh tasting omelettes (I love their 'Greek Fetish' omelette), excellent fluffy pancakes (carrot pancakes are scrumptious) and waffles, and good lunch choices to boot. The servers are friendly and dedicated as well, and many of us know each other on a first name basis. The decor is akin to a nice family restaurant or higher end diner, with tables and booths. I love the ample parking in the nearby garage and/or parking lot too. 'FirstWatch' is a welcome joy to my selection of the most favorite places to go to for a good, satisfying breakfast! UPDATE July 2014: I have to reduce my previous 5-star rating to 3 stars! Don't EVER go there on a Sunday morning, unless you enjoy waiting half an hour to an hour to get served! We (party of 2) waited for 45 minutes, then sat down and waited another 15 minutes for our food! A grand total of ONE HOUR between the time we walked in, and the time we got our breakfast! NO breakfast is worth a 1 hour wait, especially with an 8 year old hungry kid in tow! And to make matters worse, the place is packed with selfish, egotistical local SNOBS who take their sweet time eating, then hanging out as if at a cafe, instead of finishing their meals at a normal pace, then leaving to make room for others! So, to sum things up, it's OK to go there on weekdays, but on Sunday mornings... FUHGEDDABOUDIT! UPDATE October 2015: They have a newer, more updated and 'upscale' menu now (don't like it as much), and they no longer put a jelly carousel on the table. I liked the old First Watch a LOT better, since I had a choice of several jellies at my disposal. Now I have to ask to see if they have the various flavors I like (and that they had). I asked for grape, and they only had 'sugar-free' grape, which I will not imbibe because it tastes terrible and has artificial sweeteners. Lastly, their pumpkin pancakes taste a bit 'off' (IHOP blows them away), and the prices have gone UP! Are they trying to cater to only upper middle class Westlake now? It sure feels that way! read more

Always such a pleasure to come here!!! All the servers and employees are so incredibly sweet and kind!!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND

Favourite breakfast spot, food is great 99% of time as I am a regular for carry out orders.

My friend and I stopped for the night in Westlake while roadtripping to Pittsburgh. After searching the internet for the best local place to have breakfast on our way out of town, First Watch seemed to be it. We were seated in the back of the restaurant next to a very large group comprised of several small children. I would get this if the restaurant was completely packed, but it wasn't. I could barely hear my friend across the table over the other group's noise, but OK. I had the Monte Cristo. It was good and filling, but it seemed to be lacking the dijonnaise or anything to make it particularly moist. I opted for the dressed greens as a side. While I was happy to have them as an option, the bottom greens were a little too "over" dressed and I could not finish them. This restaurant fulfilled our needs of the morning (and DID provide us with our own individual carafe of coffee -- much appreciated), but it was just OK for me. read more

Although it's not local and it's a chain, this First Watch location is a great place to eat. My fiance and I go about twice a month and not once have we had a bad experience. Keep in mind, it's a small place... BUT you can make a reservation before you leave so that when you get to the restaurant you won't be waiting very long. All around: Good place, normal breakfast foods, and it's close to everything. read more

Food was incredible. Sounds weird, but this place has the best toast. We actually tried to find the bakery online to buy some. The place was clean and well run. Smooth service. Nice space. We had breakfast and it was simply some of the best breakfast food we have had. read more

Other the food is great! The service could be better. Especially when being greeted in. Ice coffee is to die for !!!

Let me preface by saying I have NEVER written a bad review on Yelp, ever. My experience at this restaurant was horrendous. Arrived at around 12pm, the lady at the front gave us a 30-40 minute wait estimate. Gave her our number to text when the table was ready. 35 minutes later, we went back in to check; the lady said it would be another 15-20 minutes. We went back in at 1:20pm - The lady said that she was able to sit us down immediately. "We texted you 30 minutes ago" I asked her what number she sent the text to, it was written down wrong. Completely unapologetic, she sat us down. Time was 1:25pm The food arrived at our table at 2:01. The table next to us received their food, ate it, chatted, and had left. Omelette was luke warm, food bland. I could not make this stuff up. At least it was bad enough to prompt my first review on Yelp after years of using the app. read more

If you like food at all, don't come here. Ughh it was probably the worst restaurant I've been to with the exception of those off the highway stops. Seriously? This is getting rave reviews and customers? If you heat up an omelet from maybe 1 week ago it will taste better. This was bland, microwaved and just sad. If you want really boring tasteless food surrounded by senior citizens and no alcohol (??!! What? No Mimosas or Bloody Maries - how does that qualify as brunch?) then come here. Being from out of town, I made the mistake of trying this place - brunch is meant to be delicious and a little bit fun to work off the hangover! This place is not that. read more

I have only been here one time so far but I definitely will be returning. Went with fiance on Friday morning around 9 AM and the place was near full. Very friendly staff and very reasonable price for breakfast. I'm a big coffee fan and they bring a water pitcher and a coffee thermos/pitcher to each individual table. They also have Cholula hot sauce on every table which is by far my favorite, especially for breakfast. Service: Very friendly and efficient. No problems and did not witness anyone else in the restaurant having any issues. Food: I have only had the Chickichanga which was excellent. Very flavorful and filling. The side of potatoes was also very well done. Nothing standard or cookie cutter about their flavors. Hygiene: Tables were very clean and organized. The condiments were full and there were no drips all over the bottles like you see at dinners. Kitchen in the back is open and also appeared very clean. Cooking staff seemed to really enjoy their job. Accessibility: Located in Crocker Park so parking is free and easy. Only reason I did not give 5 starts is because I have only been there once and I need a place to stand the test of time before I go for the full five starts. However after a few more visits I see this place making the list. IF YOU HAVENT BEEN....CHECK IT OUT!!!! read more

Stopped in for Breakfast with a buddy and the kids. Very busy place so call ahead on weekends. Polite and gracious service. Decent selection of food for all types of diets. read more

I want to amend my previous review. I have since been back and I must say the food and the service us vastly improved. Kudos to the management and the staff for a better dining experience. Our meal was back to abide part, service was fast and efficient. Not to long of a wait for a Sunday. Very pleased. read more

my friend and i always go to first watch at least once a month if not more.the food is always great and the service also.we were sad that they no longer offer the sunshine e-club, as seniors it was a high point for us and certaintly extended our budgets. read more

Nice assortment of breakfast and lunch entrees. I like that you can get fruit in lieu of potatoes (the potatoes need work). I always specify which fruit I want because in the fruit cup, I have had some melon that has tasted a little off. If you order strawberries or watermelon, it usually fares a little better. Their Southwestern fare is great and my husband loves the chicken salad melt. They usually offer a couple of specials per day as well. If you come and have to wait for a table on the weekend, there are cushy leather couches and chairs to lounge on and free coffee available while you wait. They have a nice selection of healthy meals as well with white egg omelets and dry English muffins for those who come from the health club. Tea is my choice of beverage and you get a nice little basket of assorted teas. The Vanilla Chai is my favorite. Coffee is strong and not very good and I love good coffee. Closes at 2:30. Wait staff is very friendly and accommodating even if you arrive 15 minutes prior to close. They also have an outdoor eating area with umbrellaed tables. It is in Crocker Park so you can people watch. Very pleasant! It's across the street from Trader Joe's so I always stop and pick up some inexpensive wine and produce on the way back to my car. read more

I went there for lunch on recommendation of a colleague. I found the environment a little sterile or stark. Wait staff was ok, but all were young people who seemed disconnected or disinterested. I guess I was looking for a little more private, local owner feel. Food was non-descript neither great nor bad. I wouldn't go out of my way to go here again. read more

This place is awesome. The staff is very friendly and the food is amazing! The restaurant is always busy, which is a strong indication of how good it is. You may have to wait for a table, but it will be well worth your while. If you go there for the first time, make sure to tell your server it is your first visit, and you will receive a little surprise!!!! Highly recommended for people of all ages. Everything is delicious!!!! Good healthy options for those who are watching what they eat. I'm not sure why this is showing that I am in California. I frequent the restaurant in my community of Brookfield, Wisconsin. read more

One of my favorite places to eat but the service kinda sucks and the food can be hit or miss some days it's fresh and amazing other days it can be day and cold. Usually very busy! So plan on going EARLY! Especially if you have plans for the day! Overall 3 out of 5 on an iffy day 5/5 on a good day! Def give it a try! read more

This place is so nice. But one problem is that it takes a long time to get seated. It also takes a while for your food. This place is kid friendly. They also have a good selection of food. read more

Cute, comfortable space. Short wait on a Sunday morning. Lots of things looked great on the menu. I had the chickichanga. Great flavor, potatoes were perfect. Definitely a must try. read more

First Watch - Strawberry Smash - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Westlake, Ohio

Food was great! The space is a little loud if you're sitting in the middle but the server found us a table off to the side.