If you are a fan of brunch, you are in luck. First Watch, the fast-growing daytime dining chain, has announced big expansion plans through 2025. The company is opening dozens of new restaurants across the U.S., with multiple new locations planned especially in Arizona, Delaware, and Georgia.
Whether you are craving their famous Million Dollar Bacon or fresh avocado toast, you may soon find a First Watch opening near you.
Where is First Watch opening new restaurants in 2025?
First Watch already has more than 580 locations in at least 31 states. But with business booming, especially during the first part of 2025, the company is now pushing for even more growth.
According to CEO Chris Tomasso, “Our restaurant traffic results for the same period in the first quarter are encouraging and continued the trends we experienced at the end of 2024, demonstrating the strength and resilience of the First Watch brand.”
After seeing strong results from new stores that opened earlier in the year, the company is confident about its path forward.
These are the key states where you will likely see new First Watch restaurants opening:
- Arizona
- Delaware
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Missouri
- Nevada
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Texas
- Utah
- Wisconsin
Why is First Watch focusing on Arizona, Delaware, and Georgia?
You might be wondering—why these states in particular?
First Watch is targeting fast-growing communities where the demand for fresh, made-to-order breakfast and brunch is rising. Arizona, Delaware, and Georgia have seen population growth and an increase in suburban and urban developments, which means more hungry customers and more opportunities.
- In Arizona, the chain plans to open multiple stores in cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale to meet rising demand.
- Delaware is getting attention as a smaller but growing market with room for new dining options.
- In Georgia, First Watch will add to its existing footprint with more locations planned around Atlanta and its suburbs.
The chain is especially focused on areas where people enjoy early-day dining, and these states fit that bill.
What is driving First Watch’s expansion?
You may have noticed that brunch has become more than just a weekend treat—it is now a full-blown trend. And First Watch is tapping into that.
Several factors are fueling the chain’s growth:
- Increased customer traffic: The brand reported strong same-store sales and new customer visits in early 2025.
- Positive reception in new markets: New stores opened in places like Massachusetts and Kentucky earlier this year have performed well.
- Menu innovation: People love First Watch’s rotating seasonal menus and their commitment to quality ingredients.
- Consistent hospitality: CEO Tomasso highlighted that the chain’s welcoming atmosphere is a big part of what keeps guests coming back.
“We appreciate the warm welcome we received at our first location in Massachusetts earlier this year and look forward to bringing First Watch’s innovative menu and signature hospitality to the Back Bay,” Tomasso said.
How many new restaurants will open by the end of 2025?
So far this year, First Watch has already opened 13 new locations in states like Alabama, Florida, Illinois, and South Carolina. By the end of 2025, dozens more are planned.
If you are someone who enjoys a relaxed brunch environment with quality food, there is a good chance you will not have to travel far to enjoy it. First Watch’s rapid growth shows no sign of slowing, and their focus on both suburban and urban expansion means they are looking to meet you where you are.
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