On a Friday in early September 2022, Neighbor Roy and I went to lunch at First Watch, a breakfast and lunch restaurant at River and Oracle in Tucson. We arrived right at noon and the parking lot was mostly full, but there was a space available right in front of the building. We took it.

I had glanced at First Watch’s website and knew that they mostly served eggs and breakfasts. So that’s what I expected to enjoy. I also noticed that they had mostly positive reviews from the public, so I expected good food and a pleasant atmosphere. We were not disappointed.

Roy ordered their Traditional Breakfast: eggs over easy, toast, sausage and potatoes ($11.79), along with his usual hot tea ($3.59). I did notice that when his tea came, it included a packet of assorted teas and a teapot with extra hot water. A very nice touch.

I ordered two scrambled eggs, a side of bacon, and a BELGIAN WAFFLE which consisted of a light and airy waffle with a side of warm mixed berry compote and powdered cinnamon sugar. (440 Cal) ($9.79). I also ordered their Millionaire Bloody Mary ($8.49).

I’ll let Roy tell you about his experience.

“This week, Jim and I lunched at First Watch, a restaurant at the River road/Oracle area. I pass this area frequently and notice that the parking lot is always full. We were able to park directly in front. As we neared the door, a young man who worked at the restaurant politely opened the door. We were seated promptly, drink orders taken and menus were also presented. Most of the dishes were related to breakfast and included eggs. (when I got home, I read my credit card statement–the billed item was from The egg and I) . New restaurant–old name.

The restaurant was painted in a light grey, there was plenty of light and the restaurant was immaculate. The music was soothing–all in all a great environment to enjoy a meal. I also noted that the restaurant was reasonably full, the noise level was low and it had a plentiful wait staff. Several wait staff seemed to co-ordinate serving us the different items–all the staff were probably young enough to be my great, great-grandchildren. I ordered a breakfast plate, including 2 eggs, over easy, 2 medium-sized sausages, 2 pieces of toast buttered, and a large order of fried potatoes. I usually do not eat breakfast, so this was a treat for me. The items were on a large oblong platter, warmed but not too hot. I do not know when I enjoyed breakfast this much. And I did order my usual hot tea, it was served, along with a selection of teas and a carafe of hot water for refills and an assortment of teas to choose from. Given the food, good service, and pleasant surroundings I am happy to give this restaurant 4 saguaros. This is a reasonably priced restaurant, good food, and excellent wait staff, and a really great dining experience.”

I concur with Neighbor Roy and rate First Watch with four Saguaros. My waffle was light and fluffy as advertised. My eggs were … well just eggs, but “Free Range” types. My bacon was a little greasy, but not badly so. Could have been a bit crisper. My Blood Mary was excellent, big, and “nutritious”.

First Watch is a chain based in Florida. Its “Ethos” is attention to detail including the best ingredients. There are three First Restaurants in Tucson, East Grant and West Irvington are the others.

First Watch

5055 N Oracle Rd
Tucson, AZ 85704
520.293.6139

Open daily 7 am to 2:30 pm