Grand Prairie, TX (busy location) - Server First Watch Employee Review

4.0
30 Dec 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Server sales per 7 hour shift are around 1100-1350. (I only work weekends). I averaged 26.17/hr (this includes working host shift once every other weekend). Managers don’t micromanage, but they do have conversations with employees to address major concerns. On holidays, special occasions, and just to be nice the manager will buy snacks and pizza for the staff (mostly on Sundays). Almost every section has easy sidework.

Cons

They don’t really want you to trade or pick up shifts during holiday seasons or expected busy times. Hosting kills the average hourly. Managers don’t hold servers to high expectations , like running side work, so there are normally only a few servers that are doing everything to keep the BOH clean and stocked.

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First Watch Response
4mo
Thank you for taking the time to share this feedback. We are happy to hear you enjoy your work environment and find it rewarding. We appreciate all of your hard work. We would not be where we are without people like you! Thanks again for your feedback – it helps us improve the experience of our employees.

Explore other reviews about First Watch

5.0
1 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great management, hours are great as they close at 2:30

Cons

Sometimes low pay. Its a breakfast/brunch place so people dont run uptbs that constitue high tips. Can expect around $175 a day in average

3.0
4 May 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great place to grow if you’re willing to put in the work. I started as an Operations Manager and got promoted to General Manager, so there is definitely opportunity. I met a lot of good people along the way who pushed me and helped me develop. The team environment at the store level can be strong depending on who you work with.

Cons

Very long hours with little work-life balance. Scheduled early (around 6am) but most days you’re there until 4pm–5pm depending on staffing because of the close-to-open expectations. Upper management can be very micromanaging, even reaching out on days off. There were times we were expected to come in during severe weather/state emergencies, which didn’t feel like employee safety was a priority. Heavy focus on labor cuts — managers are expected to work the line, do prep, inventory, and everything else to save money. It can feel like the company cares more about numbers than people. The “You First” culture doesn’t always match reality. Also, at times it didn’t feel like diversity was truly valued, which can be discouraging.

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First Watch Response
2d
Thank you for sharing your feedback. We are disappointed to hear that your experience with management wasn’t positive. Every day, we strive to show appreciation for our teams and listen to their concerns. Would you mind providing us with more information by calling our anonymous employee hotline at 844-484-8963? Thanks again, and we hope to hear from you soon
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