First Watch and the Evolution of Breakfast: Why the Morning Meal Still Reigns Supreme
Breakfast is not just the most important meal of the day—it’s my favorite. Maybe it’s the sense of comfort, maybe it’s the simplicity, or maybe it’s just the joy of watching sunlight pour through the window as hot coffee and sizzling bacon arrive at your table.
A Brief History of Breakfast
Long before trendy cafés and artisan toasts, ancient societies shaped the way we began our mornings. The Egyptians started their days with bread and beer, while Romans indulged in “jentaculum”—a light morning meal with bread, cheese, dried fruits, and sometimes honeyed wine. In Asia, rice porridge has been a staple for generations; in the Middle East, flatbreads and yogurt still define the day’s start.
Even in medieval Europe, breakfast had to fight for respect—once seen as a weakness reserved for the sick or laborers. But by the 17th century, as coffee and chocolate arrived from the New World, the upper class adopted morning meals with gusto.
First Watch: Modern Breakfast for the Health-Conscious and Hungry
Here in South Tampa—and throughout Florida—First Watch has mastered the art of the modern morning meal. With a fresh, farm-to-table approach and thoughtful seasonal updates, it’s become more than just a breakfast spot—it’s a lifestyle.
Their Summer menu refresh is a standout. One visit to the State Road 70 location reminded me why this brand remains a local favorite. I had the Smoked Salmon & Roasted Vegetable Frittata—a perfectly balanced dish that tasted both indulgent and nourishing. My wife went for the Shrimp & Grits, New Orleans–style, and let’s just say: we didn’t need lunch afterward.
And of course, no trip to First Watch is complete without their Million Dollar Bacon—sweet, smoky, slightly spicy, and totally worth the splurge. Yes, maybe it’s not technically the healthiest item on the menu, but some mornings deserve a little luxury.
“The food is always fresh, and you can taste the difference. I love knowing where my ingredients are coming from.” – Google Review
Shoutout to the Dream Team
Huge thanks to Meagan, Key, and Liza at the SR70 location for making our visit flawless. From warm greetings to lightning-quick coffee refills, they kept the energy flowing.
“The staff here is incredible. Friendly, fast, and always smiling. It’s like starting your day with sunshine.” – Yelp Reviewer
Real Estate, Bacon, and Expansion
As someone in commercial real estate, I keep a close eye on concepts that grow smartly—and First Watch has done just that. I credit their new Director of Real Estate, Steve deRiesthal, for securing some of the best locations in Florida. With elevated interiors and vibrant branding, they’re turning breakfast into an experience.
A New Contender: Waffle Monkey Sarasota
While we’re talking about breakfast gems, don’t sleep on Waffle Monkey on Palm Ave in Downtown Sarasota. This cheerful café, brought over from Costa Rica by owner Pete Collins and manager Lindsay, is quickly becoming a go-to for locals and tourists alike.
Their sidewalk seating, artsy decor, and playful twist on classics—like churro waffles and tropical fruit-topped stacks—make for a memorable outing. It fills a much-needed gap in Sarasota’s downtown food scene.
“We visited three days in a row. It’s that good.” – TripAdvisor Reviewer
Breakfast Is Booming
From artisanal cafés like First Watch and Waffle Monkey to convenience giants like RaceTrac, Wawa, and Dunkin, the morning meal is big business. In fact, McDonald’s does a major portion of its business before 11 AM.
But for those who want more than just fast food, there’s still magic in sitting down, savoring a frittata or hot cakes, and starting your day right.
Final Thoughts
Breakfast is a ritual, a moment of pause, a fuel-up, and a joy. Whether you’re craving million-dollar bacon or a monkey-themed waffle in Sarasota, don’t skip it.
Let me know your favorite breakfast spot—and don’t forget: it’s not just a meal, it’s a mindset.
