First Watch Restaurant Opens in Palm Harbor

Palm Harbor, FL, September 11, 2009 --(PR.com)-- First Watch, Tampa’s choice for “Best Breakfast,” as voted by the readers of Creative Loafing, opened its doors to the public on September 1, 2009 at the Alderman Plaza Shopping Center. First Watch is the nation’s fastest-growing daytime-only restaurant concept and the new Palm Harbor restaurant is the company’s 26th in the state of Florida.

“We are pleased to bring First Watch and our unique breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings to the residents of Palm Harbor and the greater Tampa Bay area,” said Chris Tomasso, Chief Marketing Officer of First Watch Restaurants, Inc. “The revitalization of Alderman Plaza has transformed into a vibrant shopping center with easy access from US 19.”

First Watch began franchising in March 2008 and the company is currently in the midst of an aggressive nationwide expansion campaign. The restaurant chain currently operates 80 restaurants in 11 states, including three franchised locations. By the end of 2012, First Watch expects to grow to 110 restaurants, with about a dozen franchised locations open and more than 30 in various stages of development.

The Palm Harbor location marks the sixth First Watch in the Tampa Bay area. The company also operates area restaurants located at:
· Countryside – Clearwater
· North Dale Mabry – Tampa
· Tampa Street – Downtown Tampa
· Fowler Avenue – Tampa
· Wesley Chapel – New Tampa

About First Watch Restaurants, Inc.
Celebrating its 25th Anniversary, First Watch was founded in 1983 on the simple concept of putting customers first and is now one of the largest, privately owned, daytime-only restaurant companies in the United States. Headquartered in Bradenton, Fla., First Watch has set the standard for quality daytime dining since its inception 25 years ago. The company recently announced expansion plans that include selling multi-unit franchises in 35 states.

First Watch offers something for everyone from traditional breakfast, brunch and lunch favorites to its signature freshly prepared-to-order specialty items such as Crepeggs™ and the popular Chickichanga®. First Watch is the frequent recipient of “Best of” accolades in cities where it operates. The company currently operates 77 restaurants in 11 states. Each new restaurant creates between 25 and 30 jobs, and First Watch currently employs approximately 2,000 people. For locations and more information, please visit www.firstwatch.com.

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