First Watch — Restaurant in Sarasota

I'm not usually someone who writes reviews, but I felt it was necessary to share my experience.

I visited this restaurant with my entire family on Sunday, the day before Labor Day. I understand it was a busy day, but I truly didn’t expect such a disappointing experience—not because of the kitchen staff or the food, but because of the demeanor and attitude of the managers currently running the floor.

We were actually seated fairly quickly, which was a pleasant surprise. However, things went downhill soon after.

While we were eating, it became impossible to fully enjoy our meal because one of the female managers was loudly yelling at the kitchen staff. The shouting was harsh and unprofessional, completely disrupting the atmosphere. It felt uncomfortable—not only for us, but clearly for other tables too, as we exchanged awkward glances with the group next to us. We didn’t catch any names, but we could clearly see that two women in charge were the ones creating the tense environment.

What made us feel even more certain about sharing this review is that everyone in my family felt the same way—we all left with the same impression. We've been to this restaurant several times in the past (about five months ago), and the experience was always pleasant. The food came out smoothly, the energy was positive, and that’s what kept us coming back.

Sadly, this time was different, and it strongly felt like a change in management might be the reason. It’s not enjoyable to witness that kind of internal conflict, especially in a place we once appreciated so much.

We’re sharing this with the hope that the right people see it and that it leads to a healthier, more respectful environment for both the staff and...

UPDATE: I have adjusted to 4 stars after First Watch contacted us and made up for our one lackluster experience. We have always enjoyed the food and will be back again!!!

Although I have always enjoyed FirstWatch and their excellent fare and service, today has been a different experience. Although staff meant well, it has been over an hour since we arrived and have only gotten waters at our table. We asked to be put on a wait list for outdoors specifically which was acknowledged or so we thought. We walked around parking lot for 15 minutes and received a text our table was ready. We arrived to see another couple who had just arrived being seated at the only available outdoor table. We brought this to attention of host who apologized but offered nothing except that we would have to re-wait for our table for a second time. 15 minutes later we were finally sat at an outdoor table. We waited another 10 min to even be greeted by our server. It's been over 25 minutes since then and still waiting on our food or any update on our order. I understand staff shortages and being busy and all that, and mistakes happen. ** The difference is made when there is willingness to make up for that mistake. They could have offered us a coffee while we waited extra long. They could have offered a free appetizer or 20% off our meal but there was nothing that was offered to balance out the experience. With that being said, as always the food was DELICIOUS!!! I will be back just hope improving customer service becomes a priority and making special accommodations for poor customer service is considered...

I had an online order that was scheduled to be picked up right around closing time. When I walked in, every staff member did their best to ignore me. Since takeout orders are just placed on a rack by the front door, I grabbed it myself & nobody said a word. Whatever, I get it. They were probably ready to go home. I checked the bag and realized they had forgotten my granola bowl. Ugh, so I went back inside & again ignored. Finally, a server who was sweeping the floor looked up, so I let her know what I was missing & showed her my receipt, etc. I watched her go back to the kitchen & it seemed she was having issues finding a "cook" to help her. When she brought my yogurt, it had the fruit but no granola. So, I flagged her down again & back to the kitchen she goes. I could tell they were razzing her & then heard her say, "she didn't ask for granola!" Ummm... what? Anyway, when they finally found some granola, it was handed to me by what I'm assuming was a manager. Instead of an apology for the added inconvenience, they threw in a dry, chocolate chip muffin I didn't even want. Also, I gave a generous tip when I paid online... if I could've taken it back, I would have.

(This review is for an order on Oct. 1, 2023. I gave it 2 stars because the Monterey Club & Farmhouse Tacos were...