First Watch — Restaurant in Centreville

This recently open First Watch, and the 2nd in the Fairfax area is something to behold. The vibrant, modern and friendly feel to it is what this chain strive on. Each iteration of First Watch is unique so this is no exception from the last review I have done with the other location. Just for context, I usually get breakfast, and in the morning.

Atmosphere: It's located where the old TGIF was next Kaiser P. and Taco Bambaba. This corner of the lot has become more vibrant over the years. The main door is on the parking lot side. As you walk-in, the vibrant and modern feel of it just hits you. It's like walking in someone house to visit. I was happily surprised it has a bar. I can't speak for others but I mainly go in and just want to sit, order and go. It's best to leave the seat to patrons that are two or more. The outdoor seating is beautiful, and just the lighting is just bright enough to start your day.

Service: What can I say this chain lives up to the standards of a friendly vibe. From the moment you walk in, you get served, and they check up on you, and as you depart the service is excellent. The food came out about approximately 10-15 minutes which is expected but I understand when it gets busy, and things get moving then yes things will take longer. I prefer quality over speed.

Food: First, I love breakfast. Again, The food is excellent at this First Watch it's consistent. My pancakes came out fluffy, and my eggs came out great! I usually order the Trifecta which is proteins of your choice and a pancake or Belgium waffle. I suggest the Blueberry pancake and the Belgium waffle. If you can try the French Toast!

All in all, this location is no different from the other locations because they all have similar vibes, excellent food, and more importantly great customer-service. If you have chance....

So be prepared to pay and wait, this place is pricey and busy. I ordered French toast with a side of eggs and chicken sausage. I had tea and water with my meal also. I did opt for the 1.29 extra maple syrup. So my bill comes and it's $32.. for breakfast!

Now onto the food, my 1st batch of French toast was burned on one side. And yes, they actually plated and served me burnt food. I waited 15 minutes for my meal with 2 other people. So when I sent the food back I got to sit and eat my eggs and sausage (which I ordered seperate and like to combine with my French toast) which took 2 min to eat. Then i got to watch the other two eat. Then when they were done eating, my food came out and they got to watch me.

My girlfriend got the roast beef sandwich, and she said it tasted like they deep-fried the bread or put a ton of butter on it. But she said the roast beef was good.

The 3rd person at our table did enjoy his food.

So they charge per person for coffee even tho they leave one big coffee pot to refill as you like. They should just charge for the pot of coffee they leave. Instead of 4$ per person. I don't know why, but it feels money hungry. I'd order one cup, use the water cup at my table and fill it at my leisure for someone else.

The food also wasn't as good as the early days, I used to go to the Fairfax location like 8 years ago. Everything was always really fresh and delicious. I found this time something has slipped, it's not the same as it used to be. Or maybe Fairfax is just better.

So, bottom line.. it's OK and it's overpriced. The waiters and staff are friendly, though.

If I was by myself, including tip, my breakfast would have been $40. Maybe that says it all.

I think I'll just go to Silver Diner across the street from now...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I had the absolute pleasure of celebrating my birthday at First Watch with my older sister who was visiting from out of town, and the experience was phenomenal from start to finish.

There’s a young lady named Amani who I had already been telling my sister about before we even walked in. The moment you meet her, you’ll understand why. She’s attentive, enthusiastic, patient, kind, and has a natural gift for making every customer feel valued. Sure enough, as soon as we arrived, she came walking through with her warm smile, greeting everyone, and I had the joy of introducing her to my sister. Within seconds, my sister was floored by Amani’s customer service and genuine energy.

When I mentioned that it was my birthday, Amani went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of. At one point, my sister’s plate had a small mishap (an eyelash landed on the dish). Instead of it being a negative moment, it turned into a blessing. Amani handled it with such grace—she brought out a fresh plate, gifted me a handwritten birthday card, a $20 gift card, and even comped the meal. None of that was expected or asked for, but it showed how much she cares about her customers. She truly turned the moment into something special and memorable.

As I’m writing this review, I’m still sitting here enjoying my Trifecta breakfast with medallion potatoes, smiling at how incredible this experience has been. Amani continuously brings the same level of attentiveness and kindness to every guest she interacts with, not just me. That’s what makes her stand out.

If you want more than just a good meal—if you want to feel genuinely welcomed and cared for—this is the place, and Amani is the reason why. She made my birthday unforgettable, and I couldn’t be...