First few months are good, but then…. - Server/Hostess First Watch Employee Review

No night shifts ever is a giant plus

You have to be a morning person to work there

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.

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.