First Watch — Restaurant in Largo

I have eaten at this particular location probably ten times; I've given First Watch a five star rating in the past, but this latest visit I just couldn't. First, and foremost, is the matter of the wait staff that greeted me upon entering. I'm not usually one to judge, but to say I was put off by their appearance would be putting it mildly. Three girls, so heavily made up they appeared ready for Halloween. Makeup slathered on, eyebrows drawn, and lashes that resembled tarantulas: it was downright creepy and disturbing. One of these girls was my server, but I couldn't see past her mask to differentiate from the others when I had a need. In my opinion, the overdone makeup, dyed hair and skin-tight jeans are wholly unprofessional, and not a welcome sight before noon in a family friendly restaurant. Isn't there a policy about personal appearance in place here? Secondly, still in keeping with appearance and hygiene; I asked for ice water as a beverage and was served with a dirty glass, not once but twice, after pointing out the first instance. Soap and water residue on the top of the glasses, coupled with old lip prints had me disgusted and asking for a plastic cup. This visit to First Watch was not going well. Third strike was the food. Generally, it's very, very good. This time, not so much. I ordered eggs Benedict Florentine, asking that the spinach be sauteed instead of straight from the fridge so as not to make the eggs cold (last visit mishap). The eggs were awful, the whites weren't cooked so it was a runny mess on top of unripened, cold tomato slices, unseasoned (but yes, sauteed) spinach, and cold bread. Even the hollandaise sauce was flavorless, although it drenched the entree itself. When my server (?, can't be sure) asked how my meal was, I simply said it was ok albeit pretty bland. Kudos that the manager checked with me shortly thereafter; no points for making excuses about the dirty glasses. Truing to "weed them out" to make room for new ones isn't a proper response. I wound up with two dirty glasses because I was lucky enough to help them find the ones needing replaced? Sorry, that excuse didn't sit well with me. The manager clearly saw I wasn't enjoying the food, and he did offer to replace it, but I was no longer in the mood to eat there. While my server advised me that I wouldn't be charged for the meal (which I didn't eat), l felt that while she and the manager went through the motions of being concerned about my satisfaction, neither really meant it. It was the makeup all over again. From start to finish, this was a totally fake dining experience. As much as I've enjoyed eating at First Watch in the past, I really don't think...

Well, as you all know I eat at each place 3 times before leaving a review so I get an accurate wide range of experience to draw from. Let's dive in. First time we visited my wife and I were absolutely blown away with the menu choices and we had one of the best servers we have only experienced at high end restaurants. We could not wait to immerse ourselves again into the beautiful breakfast brunch culture that First Watch is clearly well suited for. Eagerly we endeavored on our second taste bud adventure. Sadly our child like joyous wonder was replaced with mild annoyance, because we were made to feel like somehow we were an inconvenience to even be served. Our server was lack luster and literally rolled her eyes at our request to have more time to decide what to order. We brushed it off because the lively atmosphere and food is worth a little hiccup in service. Our much anticipated third visit was on our mind for a week. Finally, the day had come and we headed out like we were on some great adventure to well kept secret destination. However, cold reality washed over our third and final experience. Once again we have a new server but somehow seem to be a great hindrance to her day. Not only was our day soiled with the flagrant arrogance of our server but she outright huffed and wandered back to the kitchen after asking for a little more time and proceeded to glare at us from the kitchen. When our meals were served she never came back to check on us. My eggs were way overcooked and my wife's only desire was to get extra syrup which went ignored. We were sadly let down on all sides of service and product. Sadly. That is our last time there for us. So, if you are up for a 50/50 coin flip experience this is a must have in your repertoire. My advice, try it once and hope for the best. However, don't look for us there fellow travelers. Life is short and too many places to experience to waste on such uncertainty. 3 stars, and that is a super generous gift. Clearly a staffing issue and attitudes are contagious. People follow the path of least resistance. The attitude here is not one of excellence. Best wishes to the owner and to all my fellow passengers on this great journey through life I will see you at...

Fresh, healthy, YUMMY. First Watch is amazing. Details of this visit: Friday 12:30ish. Very busy and crowded, 15 minute wait but went quickly.

If you haven't been before, know it's a little pricey but we'll worth it. The food is fresh, lots of organic items incorporated in entrees and juices. I love how they bring a glass bottle of cold clean tasting water to each table so you can refill your own drinks.

They have lots of waitstaff to help with any needs. The atmosphere is positive and cheerful.

We ordered:

1. 2 eggs with farmhouse mix, potatoes, bacon, avocado, etc. It came with 2 slices of thick toast and a small container of strawberry jam. Almost forgot the fresh fruit.

2. 1 blueberry pancake, it was filled with big plump real blueberries. It also came with a small container of cherry mix, a nice treat and a hot syrup.

3. Monterey club with vegetable soup. Crisp bacon, avocado, mixed greens. Soup filled with veggies, hot and delicious.

4. Veggie burger with small salad greens. Huge sandwich sandwich filled with tasty fresh veggies.

I have been to many of there locations and it's the same, good healthy fresh food, which makes you feel good about what you're putting into your body.

This location has outdoor seating with shade umbrellas. Really nice when its not too hot outside and a great way to soak up the day.

Lastly, if you have a Sam's club membership, look for their gift cards. I purchase many sets to give to friends, family and myself. You can get 2- $25 (=$50) set for $40!! It's like getting free dessert. So worth the trip for these.

I highly recommend First Watch, but check it out...