Top 25 First Watch Interview Questions & Answers

1. Introduction

Preparing for an interview at a popular breakfast and brunch destination? If you’re seeking insights into first watch interview questions, you’re in the right place. This article offers a comprehensive guide to the types of questions you might encounter, providing you with the confidence and preparation needed to excel.

2. Understanding the First Watch Brand and Interview Process

First Watch is a distinguished name in the daytime café sphere, renowned for its commitment to freshly prepared, made-to-order meals. The brand prides itself on a culture that values fresh ingredients, friendly service, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. When interviewing for a position at First Watch, it’s essential to demonstrate an alignment with their dedication to culinary excellence and customer satisfaction. The questions are designed not only to assess your experience and skills but also to gauge whether your values resonate with their mission to deliver a superior dining experience. Whether you’re aiming for a front-of-house role or a spot in the kitchen, understanding the brand’s ethos and the nuances of their service can give you an edge in the interview process.

3. First Watch Interview Questions

Q1. Can you describe your previous experience in the restaurant or hospitality industry? (Experience & Background)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to highlight any relevant experience you have within the restaurant or hospitality industry. Be specific about your roles and responsibilities, the types of establishments you’ve worked in, and any achievements or skills you developed that are pertinent to the job you’re interviewing for. If you have limited experience, focus on transferable skills from other industries and your eagerness to learn.

My Answer:
Certainly, I have worked in the restaurant industry for the past three years with experience in a range of positions that include server, hostess, and barista at a few local cafes and diners. Here’s a brief overview of my experience:

• Server at The Friendly Spoon: Managed customer interactions, took orders, and served food for a busy diner averaging 150 customers per shift. Honed my multitasking and communication skills and received recognition for consistently high customer satisfaction scores.

• Hostess at Bella’s Bistro: Coordinated table assignments and managed waitlist flow during peak hours in a fine dining setting. Developed strong organizational skills and the ability to work under pressure.

• Barista at Coffee Corner: Prepared a variety of coffee and tea beverages with an emphasis on quality and speed. Learned the importance of product knowledge and efficiency.

Throughout my experience, I have consistently demonstrated reliability, customer service excellence, and a passion for the hospitality industry.

Q2. Why do you want to work at First Watch? (Motivation & Brand Fit)

How to Answer:
Your answer should reflect your knowledge of the First Watch brand, its values, and how they align with your own career aspirations or personal values. Mention specific reasons such as the company’s reputation, culture, menu offerings, or growth opportunities that appeal to you.

My Answer:
I want to work at First Watch because I admire the company’s commitment to fresh, made-to-order meals and the emphasis on using the best ingredients available. Additionally, I am drawn to First Watch’s values of community involvement and sustainability. I believe that my passion for providing exceptional guest experiences aligns perfectly with First Watch’s mission to deliver the best breakfast, brunch, and lunch. I am also excited about the opportunity to grow with a company that values employee development and promotes from within.

Q3. How would you handle a situation where a customer is unsatisfied with their meal? (Customer Service & Problem-Solving)

How to Answer:
Discuss your approach to customer service and the steps you would take to resolve the issue. It’s important to communicate that you would handle the situation professionally, empathetically, and with a focus on ensuring the customer leaves satisfied.

My Answer:
If a customer were unsatisfied with their meal, I would:

• Listen actively to understand their concerns without interrupting.
• Empathize with their dissatisfaction and apologize for any inconvenience.
• Offer solutions, such as remaking the dish or providing an alternative menu item.
• Follow up to ensure that the new meal meets their expectations.
• Learn from the experience by providing feedback to the kitchen staff to prevent future occurrences.

By handling the situation with care and attention, I aim to turn a negative experience into a positive one and maintain the customer’s loyalty to First Watch.

Q4. What do you think makes a great team member at First Watch? (Teamwork & Culture Fit)

How to Answer:
Reflect on the qualities that are important for success at First Watch and how these contribute to the team and the overall dining experience of customers. Consider both personal attributes and professional skills.

My Answer:
A great team member at First Watch would possess the following qualities:

• Punctuality and reliability: Ensuring shifts start on time and responsibilities are met.
• Team-oriented mindset: Collaborating effectively with peers and supporting one another during busy periods.
• Positive attitude: Maintaining a warm and inviting demeanor even under stress.
• Customer-first approach: Providing excellent service that exceeds guests’ expectations.
• Adaptability: Being able to quickly adjust to changes and new situations.

Q5. How do you prioritize tasks during a busy breakfast or brunch rush? (Time Management & Prioritization)

How to Answer:
Detail your ability to manage time effectively, make quick decisions, and prioritize tasks in order of importance or urgency. Explain your thought process and give examples if possible.

My Answer:
During a busy rush, prioritizing tasks is crucial. My approach is to:

• Assess the situation: Quickly determine what needs immediate attention.
• Organize tasks: Create a mental or physical list of tasks in order of urgency.
• Delegate: If working as part of a team, assign tasks to different members based on their strengths and current workload.
• Focus on customer experience: Ensure that all actions contribute to a positive dining experience.
• Stay calm and efficient: Maintain composure to think clearly and act effectively.

For example, if multiple tables need attention, I would prioritize greeting new guests to make them feel welcome, check on those who are waiting for their meals, then follow up with tables that have just finished eating to clear dishes and process payments.

Q6. Tell me about a time when you had to work under pressure. How did you handle it? (Stress Management & Resilience)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, you should focus on a specific instance where you successfully managed a high-pressure situation. Explain the context, the action you took, and the positive outcome. Highlight your ability to stay calm, think clearly, and prioritize tasks when under pressure.

My Answer:
In my previous role as a line cook at a busy restaurant, we had an evening where we were short-staffed, and the kitchen was overwhelmed with orders. I was responsible for managing the grill station, which is typically one of the most high-pressure sections.

• Situation: The kitchen was unexpectedly short-staffed during a peak dining hour.
• Task: Despite the staff shortage, I had to maintain the quality and speed of the dishes being prepared.
• Action: To handle the situation, I prioritized orders based on their complexity and the time they were placed. I communicated clearly with my colleagues to ensure that everyone was aware of the order in which dishes needed to be prepared.
• Result: By efficiently managing my tasks and maintaining open communication, we were able to get through the dinner rush without significant delays, and customer satisfaction remained high.

This experience taught me the importance of staying focused under pressure and the value of clear communication within a team.

Q7. What is your availability, and are you able to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays? (Availability & Flexibility)

My availability is quite flexible. I understand that the hospitality industry often requires early mornings, weekends, and holidays, and I am prepared to work during these times. Here’s a table outlining my general availability:

Day	Availability
Monday	Open
Tuesday	Open
Wednesday	Afternoons
Thursday	Open
Friday	Evenings
Saturday	Open
Sunday	Open

Please note that I am also willing to adjust my schedule if needed to accommodate the restaurant’s needs.

Q8. Describe a time when you provided excellent service in a previous role. (Customer Service & Experience)

How to Answer:
Highlight a specific example where you went above and beyond for a customer. Describe what the situation was, what actions you took to provide excellent service, and how the customer responded. This question is a chance to demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction.

My Answer:
In my previous position as a retail associate, I once assisted a customer who was looking for a specific item as a gift for their spouse’s birthday. The item was not available in our store, and the customer was quite upset.

• Situation: The customer needed an item that was out of stock.
• Task: My goal was to ensure customer satisfaction and help find the item.
• Action: I checked our inventory system and found that another store location had the item in stock. I called the other store to reserve the item and arranged for the customer to pick it up. I also provided a small discount and a personalized birthday card for the inconvenience.
• Result: The customer was extremely grateful and later returned to our store to personally thank me. They also wrote a positive review online, mentioning my efforts.

This experience reaffirmed my belief in going the extra mile to make a customer’s day better.

Q9. How do you feel about working in a fast-paced environment? (Adaptability & Work Pace)

I thrive in fast-paced environments. I find that they bring out my best qualities, such as quick thinking, efficiency, and adaptability. In my previous roles, I’ve worked in high-energy settings where multitasking and agility were essential. I feel that such environments push me to continually improve and grow professionally.

Q10. How would you deal with a conflict between team members? (Conflict Resolution & Teamwork)

How to Answer:
Discuss a step-by-step approach to conflict resolution, showing your ability to be diplomatic and fair. Emphasize your listening skills, ability to remain neutral, and how you facilitate a resolution that is agreeable to all parties involved.

My Answer:
If I encountered a conflict between team members, my approach would be:

• Listen: Allow each team member to express their perspective without interruption.
• Understand: Acknowledge the feelings and viewpoints of all parties to ensure they feel heard.
• Identify: Determine the root cause of the conflict.
• Communicate: Encourage open and respectful dialogue about the issue.
• Resolve: Collaborate with the team members to find a mutually agreeable solution.
• Follow-up: Check in with the individuals involved to ensure the resolution is holding and to prevent future conflicts.

For example, at my last job, two of my coworkers had a disagreement over the allocation of tasks. I facilitated a meeting where each person could explain their viewpoint. We discovered that the conflict arose from a misunderstanding of each other’s workload. We agreed on a more transparent way of assigning tasks in the future, and I followed up after a week to ensure the new system was working effectively.

Q11. What do you know about First Watch’s menu and values? (Brand Knowledge & Research)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to show that you’ve done your homework on First Watch and understand their offerings and brand ethos. You can talk about specific items on the menu that stand out to you, their healthy and fresh approach to breakfast, brunch, and lunch, and any unique features of their menu, such as seasonal items or the use of locally sourced ingredients. Also, highlight their commitment to community, customer service, and sustainability if these are part of their stated values.

My Answer:
First Watch is known for its freshly prepared breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings. Their menu emphasizes a variety of health-conscious options including omelets, salads, sandwiches, and specialty items. They often feature seasonal ingredients and have a selection of "Fresh Juice Bar" items that are made in-house daily.

In terms of values, First Watch is focused on freshness and quality, and they have a commitment to sourcing local and organic ingredients whenever possible. They have a philosophy of "You First" which signifies that the customer’s experience is their top priority. Sustainability and giving back to the community are also important aspects of their brand identity.

Q12. If you noticed a coworker not following food safety protocols, what would you do? (Food Safety & Integrity)

How to Answer:
For this question, employers are looking for candidates who understand the importance of food safety and have a sense of integrity. Your answer should reflect a responsible and professional approach to addressing the issue without causing conflict or disruption in the workplace.

My Answer:
If I noticed a coworker not following food safety protocols, I would take the following steps:

• Address the coworker directly: I would approach the coworker in a non-confrontational manner and remind them of the correct procedure. It’s possible that they simply forgot or were not aware of the protocol.
• Escalate if necessary: If the behavior continued or if it was a serious breach of protocol, I would report the issue to a supervisor or manager to ensure the safety of our customers and the integrity of our work environment.

Q13. How do you approach learning new menu items and specials? (Learning Ability & Adaptability)

How to Answer:
Demonstrate your willingness to learn and your strategies for adapting to new information. Employers value team members who can quickly assimilate new menu items and effectively communicate these to customers.

My Answer:
To learn new menu items and specials, I use the following approach:

• Study: I spend time studying the recipes and descriptions to understand the ingredients and preparation methods.
• Practice: If possible, I practice preparing the dish or observe others who are already familiar with it.
• Ask Questions: I’m not shy about asking questions to ensure I have a complete understanding of the item.
• Taste: I believe in tasting new menu items to effectively describe and recommend them to customers.

Q14. What skills do you bring to the First Watch team? (Skills & Qualifications)

How to Answer:
When discussing your skills, focus on those that are most relevant to the position at First Watch. These might include customer service experience, food preparation expertise, the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, teamwork, communication skills, and any previous restaurant experience.

My Answer:
The skills I bring to the First Watch team include:

• Customer Service: I have extensive experience in customer-facing roles and understand the importance of creating a positive dining experience.
• Teamwork: I am a collaborative team player who values the contributions of all team members.
• Communication: My strong communication skills help me to effectively interact with both customers and coworkers.

Q15. What do you think is the key to maintaining a clean and organized work station? (Cleanliness & Organization)

How to Answer:
This question assesses your commitment to maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and organization, which is critical in the food service industry. Emphasize your personal strategies for keeping a tidy work area and your understanding of its importance.

My Answer:
The key to maintaining a clean and organized workstation is consistent and proactive management of one’s space. Here are some strategies I use:

• Routine Cleaning: Regularly wiping down surfaces and equipment after each use to prevent buildup.
• Organization: Methodically arranging tools and ingredients so that they are easily accessible and in their designated place.
• Time Management: Allocating specific times for deep cleaning tasks during slow periods.
• Prevention: Addressing spills and accidents immediately to prevent them from affecting other areas or becoming safety hazards.
• Checklists: Using checklists to ensure all cleaning tasks are completed by the end of the shift.

Task	Frequency	Notes
Wipe counters	After each use	Use food-safe sanitizer
Sweep floors	Daily	More often if needed
Sanitize surfaces	Daily	Especially high-touch areas
Organize station	Throughout shift	Keep items in designated places
Deep clean	Weekly	Schedule during downtime

Q16. Can you provide an example of how you’ve contributed to a positive team environment in the past? (Teamwork & Positive Attitude)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to focus on specific instances where your actions had a direct impact on the team’s dynamics and outcomes. Discuss any situation where you demonstrated support for your colleagues, took initiative to improve team morale, or helped to solve a problem within the team. Employers ask this question to gauge your ability to work collaboratively in a team setting.

My Answer:
In my previous role as a server at a busy restaurant, I recognized that the stress of a Saturday night rush was often overwhelming for the kitchen and waitstaff. To contribute to a positive team environment, I organized a brief team huddle before these shifts to set the tone for the night. We would share a positive thought, acknowledge each other’s hard work, and commit to supporting each other. This small gesture uplifted the team spirit and improved our communication during the rush hours. Additionally, I always made sure to jump in and help other servers when they were falling behind, which fostered a strong sense of teamwork and camaraderie.

Q17. In your opinion, what does good communication in a restaurant setting look like? (Communication Skills)

How to Answer:
When discussing good communication in a restaurant setting, you should consider the various interactions that occur: between staff members, between staff and management, and between staff and customers. Highlight the importance of clarity, timeliness, and professionalism. Also, mention how good communication can lead to improved customer service, better teamwork, and a more efficient work environment.

My Answer:
Good communication in a restaurant involves several key components:

• Clarity and Conciseness: Staff should communicate orders, questions, and concerns clearly and without unnecessary information to avoid confusion and errors.
• Timeliness: Promptly relaying information, such as changes in a customer’s order or updates on table availability, is crucial for the smooth operation of the restaurant.
• Active Listening: Staff should actively listen to each other and to customers to ensure accurate understanding and to show respect.
• Body Language and Tone: Non-verbal cues are important; staff should maintain positive body language and a friendly tone to convey a welcoming atmosphere.
• Professionalism: Communication should always be professional, even in high-stress situations, to maintain a positive work environment.

In my experience, communication is not just about talking; it’s a two-way street that involves listening and responding appropriately. For example, if a customer has a special request, it is important to listen carefully, confirm the request, and communicate it to the kitchen staff promptly.

Q18. How do you handle receiving constructive criticism from a manager or supervisor? (Receptiveness to Feedback)

How to Answer:
Explain the value you place on constructive criticism and your approach to using it as a tool for personal and professional growth. Discuss how you maintain a positive attitude and openness to feedback, as well as how you apply the feedback to improve your performance.

My Answer:
I view constructive criticism as an opportunity for personal and professional development. When receiving feedback from a manager or supervisor, I make sure to:

• Listen Actively: I give my full attention to understand the feedback provided.
• Keep an Open Mind: I resist the urge to become defensive and instead try to see the feedback from the perspective of my manager.
• Ask Questions for Clarity: If anything is unclear, I ask questions to ensure I fully understand the concern and how to address it.
• Reflect on the Feedback: I take some time to think about the feedback and how it applies to my work.
• Develop an Action Plan: Based on the feedback, I create a plan for how to improve and avoid similar issues in the future.
• Follow Up: I follow up with my manager after implementing changes to ensure the feedback has been addressed effectively.

Q19. Are you able to perform the physical requirements of the job, such as standing for long periods and lifting up to 30 pounds? (Physical Requirements & Health)

How to Answer:
Respond truthfully to this question based on your physical capabilities. If you have any restrictions, it’s important to mention them, but also discuss how you could perform the job effectively with reasonable accommodations if applicable.

My Answer:
Yes, I am able to meet the physical requirements of the job. In my previous positions, I’ve been accustomed to standing for extended periods during my shifts, and I have regularly lifted items up to 30 pounds. I understand that this is an essential part of the role to ensure the efficient operation of the restaurant, and I’m prepared to fulfill these duties. I also engage in regular exercise to maintain my physical health and endurance, which helps me perform these tasks effectively.

Q20. Tell me about a time when you had to adapt to a new policy or change at work. How did you manage it? (Adaptability & Change Management)

How to Answer:
Share a specific experience that illustrates your flexibility and ability to adapt to change. Outline the steps you took to understand the new policy, how you adjusted your workflow, and the positive outcomes that resulted from your adaptability.

My Answer:
At my last job, the restaurant introduced a new table management system designed to improve the seating process and reduce wait times. Initially, it was a significant change from the paper-based method we were used to.

Here’s how I managed the transition:

• Education: I attended the training sessions provided by the management to fully understand the new system.
• Practice: I spent extra time practicing with the new system outside of peak hours to become proficient.
• Adjustment: I modified my approach to greeting and seating customers to align with the new process.
• Feedback: I provided constructive feedback to management on how the system was performing and suggested minor tweaks to improve its effectiveness.

As a result of these steps, I quickly adapted to the new policy, and our team was able to reduce customer wait times by an average of 10 minutes during peak hours. This experience reinforced the importance of being open to change and the value of a proactive approach to learning new systems.

Q21. How do you ensure accuracy when taking orders and entering them into the POS system? (Attention to Detail & Accuracy)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it is important to emphasize your attention to detail and accuracy. You can discuss any specific strategies you use, such as repeating the order back to the customer for confirmation, or any experiences that illustrate your ability to be precise and thorough.

My Answer:
To ensure accuracy when taking orders and entering them into the POS system, I adhere to the following practices:

• Listening Carefully: I make sure to listen attentively to the customer, not interrupting and avoiding distractions.
• Repeating Orders: After a customer finishes ordering, I repeat the order back to them to confirm that I have understood everything correctly.
• Clarification: If there is any ambiguity or special request, I ask clarifying questions to ensure that I capture the order as the customer wants it.
• Use Descriptors: I use descriptors in the POS system to note any modifications or special instructions clearly.
• Double-Checking: Before finalizing the order in the system, I do a quick double-check to ensure that each item and its details are entered accurately.

Q22. What strategies do you use to stay motivated during slow periods at the restaurant? (Self-Motivation & Proactivity)

How to Answer:
Discuss strategies that you employ to remain productive and positive, even when the pace of work slows down. You can mention how you use such periods for self-improvement, cleaning, or preparing for the next rush.

My Answer:
During slow periods at the restaurant, I stay motivated by:

• Setting Personal Goals: I set small, achievable goals for myself, such as organizing a storage area or learning a new recipe.
• Cross-training: I use the time to learn different roles within the restaurant, which helps me understand the business better and become more versatile.
• Cleaning and Maintenance: I take the opportunity to deep clean areas of the restaurant or check for maintenance requirements.
• Improving Customer Experience: I brainstorm ways to enhance the customer experience or come up with new ideas that could be beneficial for the restaurant.

Q23. How would you contribute to creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers at First Watch? (Customer Service & Atmosphere)

How to Answer:
Talk about your customer service philosophy, and how you would apply it at First Watch to make customers feel welcome. Give examples of actions or behaviors that contribute to a friendly and inviting atmosphere.

My Answer:
To create a welcoming atmosphere for customers at First Watch, I would contribute in the following ways:

• Friendly Greeting: I always greet customers with a warm and sincere smile, making eye contact to convey genuine hospitality.
• Engaging Conversation: I engage in light conversation, where appropriate, and show interest in customers’ preferences and needs.
• Attentiveness: I remain attentive to the customers’ needs throughout their visit, ensuring they feel taken care of and valued.
• Maintaining Cleanliness: I keep the dining area clean and comfortable, reinforcing the inviting atmosphere of the restaurant.
• Team Spirit: I collaborate with team members to ensure a seamless and positive dining experience for every customer.

Q24. Describe a situation where you had to multitask effectively. How did you handle it? (Multitasking & Efficiency)

How to Answer:
Provide a clear example of a past experience where you had to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Explain the situation, the tasks involved, how you prioritized or managed your time, and the outcome.

My Answer:
In my previous role as a server, there was an instance where I had to manage taking orders, serving food, and addressing customer concerns all at once. Here’s how I handled it:

• Prioritization: I quickly assessed the urgency of each task and prioritized them accordingly.
• Delegation: I communicated with my team to delegate tasks whenever possible, such as asking a colleague to refill drinks while I handled a customer complaint.
• Systematic Approach: I systematically worked through each task, ensuring not to overlook any detail.
• Communication: I kept communicating with customers and team members about the status of their requests or orders, managing expectations.

Q25. Why should we choose you over other candidates for this position at First Watch? (Self-Assessment & Differentiation)

How to Answer:
Highlight your unique skills, experiences, or qualities that make you an ideal fit for the position at First Watch. Be honest and confident in your assessment, and connect your attributes to the needs of the company.

My Answer:
You should choose me over other candidates for this position at First Watch because of the following reasons:

Attribute	How It Benefits First Watch
Experience	My extensive experience in the restaurant industry equips me with the skills to handle various situations efficiently and effectively.
Customer Service	I have a proven track record of providing exceptional customer service, which aligns with First Watch’s commitment to guest satisfaction.
Adaptability	My adaptability allows me to thrive in fast-paced environments and embrace any changes that come my way.
Team Player	I am a natural team player who fosters a collaborative environment, something that is essential in a busy restaurant setting.
Passion for Food	My passion for food and hospitality ensures that I am always motivated to go above and beyond for customers and the restaurant.

These attributes, combined with my dedication to excellence, make me a strong candidate for the position at First Watch.

4. Tips for Preparation

To excel in your First Watch interview, begin by thoroughly researching the company’s history, values, and menu. Understanding the brand will not only prepare you for related questions but also shows genuine interest in becoming part of the team. Next, reflect on your past experiences, particularly those in hospitality, and be ready to discuss specific instances where you excelled in customer service or teamwork.

Sharpen your knowledge of commonly used restaurant technology and point-of-sale (POS) systems, as technical proficiency can be a deciding factor. Moreover, anticipate role-play scenarios to demonstrate your problem-solving and customer service skills in action. Practicing out loud can boost your confidence and help you deliver responses more naturally.

5. During & After the Interview

During the interview, present yourself as a reliable and amiable candidate. Dress appropriately, maintain eye contact, and pay attention to your body language to project confidence. Interviewers at First Watch likely seek individuals who are adaptable, team-oriented, and passionate about providing excellent customer service, so tailor your responses to highlight these qualities.

Avoid common pitfalls such as speaking negatively about past employers or appearing disengaged. Instead, focus on positive experiences and what you can bring to the team. Prepare a few thoughtful questions for your interviewer about company culture, growth opportunities, or expectations for the role, which can demonstrate your long-term interest in the position.

After the interview, send a personalized thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. This not only shows good manners but also keeps you fresh in the interviewer’s mind. Finally, be patient while waiting for feedback, but if you haven’t heard back within the timeline provided, it’s appropriate to follow up with a polite inquiry.