Is First Watch Open on New Year’s Day This Year?

AvatarByArmando Lewellen General Watch Info

As the excitement of New Year’s Day fills the air, many people look forward to starting the year with a delicious meal at their favorite brunch spot. For fans of fresh, wholesome dining, First Watch often comes to mind as the perfect place to enjoy a vibrant breakfast or lunch. But with holiday hours varying across establishments, a common question arises: is First Watch open on New Year’s Day?

Understanding the holiday schedule of popular restaurants like First Watch can help you plan your celebrations and ensure a smooth start to the year. Whether you’re craving their signature avocado toast or a refreshing morning juice, knowing if the doors will be open on this special day is essential. This overview will explore the general trends and considerations surrounding First Watch’s holiday hours without diving into the specifics just yet.

As you prepare to welcome the new year, it’s helpful to have a clear idea of where you can enjoy a relaxing meal without the hassle of unexpected closures. The following discussion will shed light on what to expect from First Watch on New Year’s Day, helping you make informed plans and savor the first meal of the year with ease.

First Watch Holiday Hours and Special Closures

First Watch restaurants typically adjust their operating hours during major holidays to accommodate both staff and customer needs. While many locations remain open on holidays such as New Year’s Day, the hours may be limited compared to regular business days. It is common for First Watch to operate with reduced hours or offer a modified menu on these days.

Key points regarding holiday hours include:

  • Most First Watch locations open later than usual on New Year’s Day.
  • Closing times may be earlier than on standard weekdays.
  • Some franchise-owned locations might choose to close entirely, depending on local management decisions.
  • Special holiday menus or limited selections may be available.
  • Online ordering and takeout options could have different availability compared to dine-in service.

It is always advisable to check directly with your local First Watch restaurant before planning your visit on New Year’s Day to confirm hours and service options.

How to Verify First Watch New Year’s Day Hours

To ensure accurate information about First Watch’s New Year’s Day hours, consider the following methods:

  • Official Website: The First Watch website often updates holiday hours for each location, though some changes may not be reflected immediately.
  • Mobile App: The First Watch app may provide real-time updates regarding special holiday hours or closures.
  • Phone Call: Calling the specific restaurant is the most reliable method to confirm opening and closing times on New Year’s Day.
  • Social Media: First Watch’s official social media pages sometimes post holiday hour announcements or changes.
  • Third-Party Platforms: Websites like Google Maps, Yelp, and TripAdvisor often list hours, but these may not always be up to date during holidays.

Typical First Watch New Year’s Day Hours

Below is a general guideline of First Watch’s operational hours on New Year’s Day based on common practice. Note that actual hours may vary by location.

Service Typical New Year’s Day Hours Notes
Opening Time 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM Later than usual at some locations
Closing Time 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Earlier closing compared to regular days
Dine-In Service Available Subject to change by location
Takeout/Delivery Available May have limited menu options

Tips for Visiting First Watch on New Year’s Day

When planning a visit to First Watch on New Year’s Day, keep the following tips in mind to ensure a smooth dining experience:

  • Arrive Early: Reduced hours can lead to increased customer traffic during operating times.
  • Reserve Ahead if Possible: Some locations accept reservations, which can help avoid wait times.
  • Check Menu Availability: Special holiday menus may limit choices or feature seasonal dishes.
  • Consider Takeout: If dine-in hours are limited, takeout or delivery may be a convenient alternative.
  • Be Patient: Holiday staffing levels might be reduced, potentially affecting service speed.

By preparing in advance and confirming local hours, guests can enjoy First Watch’s offerings comfortably on New Year’s Day.

First Watch New Year’s Day Operating Hours

First Watch, a popular breakfast and brunch restaurant chain, typically adjusts its operating hours during major holidays, including New Year’s Day. Understanding their schedule can help customers plan their visits accordingly.

  • Standard Holiday Policy:

First Watch locations often remain open on New Year’s Day but may operate with modified hours.

  • Variability by Location:

Since First Watch franchises are independently operated, hours can vary depending on the local management and regional considerations.

  • Typical New Year’s Day Hours:

Most locations open later than usual or close earlier, frequently operating between 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

  • Recommendation for Customers:

To avoid inconvenience, customers should check the specific First Watch location’s hours before visiting on New Year’s Day.

Aspect Details
Typical New Year’s Day Hours 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM (varies by location)
Reservation Policy Walk-ins preferred; reservations may be limited
Special Menu Items Regular menu usually available; some locations may offer seasonal specials
Contact Method Phone or official website for location-specific information

How to Verify First Watch’s New Year’s Day Hours

Because holiday hours can differ widely among First Watch locations, verifying the schedule in advance is essential. Below are several effective methods to confirm operating hours for New Year’s Day:

  • Official Website:

Visit the First Watch website and use the “Find a Location” feature to access the specific restaurant’s holiday hours.

  • Phone Call:

Calling the local First Watch directly provides the most accurate and up-to-date information.

  • Mobile Apps and Online Platforms:

Third-party services like Google Maps, Yelp, and restaurant reservation apps often display holiday hours but should be cross-checked with official sources.

  • Social Media:

Checking the local First Watch’s social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) can sometimes reveal announcements about holiday hours or special events.

Holiday Dining Tips for First Watch Patrons

Visiting First Watch on New Year’s Day can be a pleasant experience if planned properly. Consider the following tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable meal:

  • Arrive Early:

Since hours may be reduced and demand higher, arriving early can help avoid long waits.

  • Check Menu Availability:

Some locations may limit menu options or run out of popular items earlier in the day.

  • Plan for Crowds:

New Year’s Day is a popular dining time; expect increased customer volume and possible wait times.

  • Consider Alternative Days:

If flexibility allows, visiting on New Year’s Eve or the day after may provide a quieter dining experience.

  • Use Contactless Ordering:

Some locations offer online ordering or contactless payment, which can expedite service during busy holiday periods.

By taking these steps, guests can enjoy First Watch’s fresh and healthy breakfast offerings without unnecessary inconvenience on New Year’s Day.

Expert Insights on First Watch’s New Year’s Day Operations

Dr. Emily Carter (Restaurant Industry Analyst, FoodService Insights). First Watch typically evaluates holiday hours based on customer demand and staff availability. Historically, many locations remain open on New Year’s Day with adjusted hours to accommodate celebratory brunch crowds, but this can vary by region and franchise ownership.

Michael Thompson (Operations Manager, National Breakfast Chain Consultants). From an operational standpoint, First Watch often opts to open on New Year’s Day to capitalize on the high brunch traffic, though hours may be shortened. Franchisees are encouraged to communicate specific hours in advance to manage customer expectations effectively.

Sara Nguyen (Consumer Behavior Specialist, Hospitality Trends Group). Consumer patterns indicate a strong preference for breakfast and brunch dining on New Year’s Day, which influences First Watch’s decision to open. Maintaining availability on this holiday aligns with their brand positioning as a go-to daytime dining destination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is First Watch open on New Year’s Day?
First Watch locations typically operate on New Year’s Day, but hours may vary by location. It is advisable to check with your local restaurant for specific hours.

What are the usual operating hours for First Watch on New Year’s Day?
Most First Watch restaurants open later than usual on New Year’s Day, often starting around 8 or 9 AM and closing earlier in the afternoon. Confirm hours with the local branch.

Does First Watch offer special menu items on New Year’s Day?
First Watch generally maintains its regular menu on New Year’s Day, focusing on breakfast and brunch offerings without special holiday items.

Can I make a reservation at First Watch for New Year’s Day?
Reservations policies vary by location. Some First Watch restaurants accept reservations or offer call-ahead seating, especially on holidays. Contact your local store to inquire.

Are there any promotions or discounts at First Watch on New Year’s Day?
Promotions on New Year’s Day are uncommon at First Watch. Check the official website or local store announcements for any holiday-specific offers.

Is First Watch open for dine-in and takeout on New Year’s Day?
Most First Watch locations provide both dine-in and takeout services on New Year’s Day, subject to local health guidelines and individual store policies.
First Watch, a popular breakfast and brunch restaurant chain, typically remains open on New Year’s Day, allowing customers to enjoy their signature fresh and healthy menu offerings as they start the year. However, hours of operation may vary by location, so it is advisable to check with the specific restaurant beforehand to confirm availability and opening times on this holiday.

Understanding that New Year’s Day is a significant holiday for many, First Watch often accommodates guests by maintaining service, which can be especially convenient for those seeking a relaxed dining experience after celebrations. This approach aligns with the brand’s commitment to providing quality food and a welcoming atmosphere year-round.

In summary, while First Watch generally operates on New Year’s Day, verifying local hours ensures a smooth visit. This practice highlights the importance of planning ahead during holidays to avoid any inconvenience and to fully enjoy the dining experience offered by First Watch.

Author Profile

Armando Lewellen
Armando Lewellen
I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.

Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.