First Watch — Restaurant in Upper Merion Township

First, the good parts. The staff were kind and friendly, and they worked well together as a team. The food was also delicious.

However, when we sat down at the table, the mug placed in front of me had sugar residue at the bottom — it was clearly not washed. The water glass brought by the staff was also dirty. Even the fork was dirty, so I had to use a spoon instead. The customers next to us also asked to have their cutlery replaced because it was dirty.

While cleaning, one of the staff members carried the water pitcher with their finger inside it. Was that pitcher washed afterwards? If they just topped it up and served it again, that’s quite unpleasant.

What really bothered me was how dirty the tableware given to us was. In any restaurant, hygiene should be a top priority, and this was unacceptable. I chose this location specifically because of its high Google reviews — not other branches. I made the effort to come from far away, only to have a very disappointing experience.

I understand it was a busy Sunday lunchtime. But still, dishes and cutlery should be properly cleaned. Perhaps the dishwasher isn’t working well. Staff should also check for cleanliness before handing anything to customers.

This experience affected how I decided to tip. It’s such a shame — the service was otherwise lovely, and the food was great. But when you’re repeatedly handed dirty glasses and cutlery, it ruins the...

First time ever at First Watch. No expectations and have never looked at review about this place. Only know about it because I work in the area. Parking is easy. Atmosphere is inviting. Noise level is a little loud as the place is large and open. We were greeted and ushered to a table quickly. After about 10 minutes we were recognized by a waitress that we were still waiting to served. Another five minutes and our lovely waitress finally arrived with a coffee pot that she was fighting to put a cap on because of her very long fingernails. Coffee was hot and very good. She took our order and went about her business. It did not take too long for our orders to arrive but they might have rushed it. My partners order was completely wrong and mine seemed correct. I had the Bisket with Turkey Gravy. Seasoned potatoes with 2 eggs over easy. The turkey gravy, potatoes and eggs were very well prepared however the biscuit needed more time in the oven. Half way finished with my meal when my partners correct meal showed up he said it was okay for french toast but it was definitely rushed. Little under cooked not completely dunked and dry in places. I think since they have only been open a month or so I'll wait to comeback. It is not as of yet my first choice of a new breakfast...

This was my 2nd time at this particular 1st Watch and the server's service was subpar. Unlike my first time at this establishment, my fiancé & I had an awesome server named Cheryl. She made us feel welcomed and extremely comfortable during an extremely busy time of the day. Today, I felt rushed, and that my presence was a nuisance. The restaurant closes at 2:30pm. I arrived at 1:47 pm. I get it, close to closing, end of shift, and on a holiday, you're ready to get out & gone. I still shouldn't be made to feel like I need to eat my food and go (which, I did just that). Although the server greeted me with a nice smile and was pleasant, she did not do the usual greeting of sharing her name, asking whether I've been there before, etc... I instantly felt like she was disappointed that I was seated in her section when all she wants to do is her part of the clean-up and daily prep, and leave when it's time. I definitely wanted to oblige her energy and get my food, eat it, and get up out of there. I didn't even get what really wanted because I was worried it take too long. I ordered what I had my last time, and it was out within 7-10 minutes. I ate it all in less time. Got the check, paid via QR code and left; 2:18pm. When I come back, I'm definitely asking for...