How Much Do First Watch Servers Make in Tips Reddit?

The first thing you need to know is this—there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Tips can range from $50 to $200 a shift, but many variables come into play. First Watch, as a breakfast and brunch-focused chain, operates differently from high-end restaurants or fast-paced bars. Typically, tips at First Watch are influenced by factors such as location, the time of the week, and customer volume. A server working in a busy urban First Watch may see higher tips than one in a quieter suburban spot. Let’s dive into the variables that truly impact the income of First Watch servers on a day-to-day basis.

1. Urban vs. Suburban
   Urban locations, especially those in high-traffic tourist areas or business districts, tend to have a higher customer turnover, and these customers might tip more generously. Reports on Reddit indicate that servers in places like New York City or Miami can bring home upwards of $150–$200 in tips during a busy brunch shift. On the other hand, servers in smaller towns might see numbers closer to $50–$80. This fluctuation means that geography is a critical factor in a server’s earning potential at First Watch.

2. Time of the Week
   Weekends are peak times for First Watch, where customers flock for leisurely brunches. A typical Saturday or Sunday brunch shift can be a goldmine for tips. A Reddit user, working as a server, described their Sunday shifts as their "make-or-break" day, earning them close to double what they’d make on a weekday. The same user noted that weekday shifts, especially breakfast, might only yield $30–$70 in tips, compared to $100+ on weekends.

3. Customer Demographics
   First Watch is a family-friendly, casual dining environment. This type of clientele tends to tip differently compared to, say, fine dining customers. Families with kids may tip conservatively, especially if the bill is on the lower side. On Reddit, many First Watch servers note that large groups or families may take up more of their tables but don’t always leave higher tips proportional to their table size. However, some patrons—especially brunch enthusiasts and regulars—can be very generous, leaving $20 tips on a $40 meal.

4. Shift Hours
   The brunch rush is where the magic happens. Many servers report that opening shifts, typically from 7 a.m. to around 2 p.m., are when they make the bulk of their tips. These hours cover both the breakfast and brunch rushes, two of the busiest times at First Watch. However, working during slower hours (later in the afternoon) might mean fewer customers and, therefore, fewer tips.

5. Service Quality
   On a personal level, some servers have highlighted how much the quality of service impacts tips at First Watch. Reddit discussions repeatedly mention how servers who build rapport with their customers tend to receive better tips. Being attentive, offering great customer service, and making personalized recommendations can increase tip percentages, even if the check isn’t particularly high.

How Do Tips Stack Up Against the Base Pay?

At First Watch, servers typically receive an hourly wage below the minimum wage, as is standard for tipped employees in many states. According to one Reddit thread, this base pay can range from $2.13 to $5 an hour, depending on the state. But it’s the tips that make up the majority of a server’s income. It’s crucial to understand that First Watch servers, like many in the service industry, rely heavily on their tips to make a livable wage.

Here’s a breakdown of how a server’s earnings might look in a typical week:

Shift Type	Number of Hours	Estimated Tips	Base Pay (Hourly)	Total Daily Earnings
Weekend Brunch (Saturday/Sunday)	6	$150–$200	$4	$174–$224
Weekday Breakfast Shift (Mon–Fri)	5	$50–$100	$4	$70–$120
Afternoon/Slower Shift	4	$30–$50	$4	$46–$66

While this breakdown offers a general overview, it’s important to note that servers' earnings can vary based on their individual performance, location, and shifts worked.

Real Stories from Reddit

On Reddit, the experiences of First Watch servers vary greatly. One user noted that they made about $700 in tips over a particularly busy week, while another commented that they had weeks where they only brought home $300. One recurring theme is that while the job might not be as financially lucrative as high-end serving jobs, the hours and environment of First Watch are often seen as a positive trade-off.

One Reddit user highlighted the “lifestyle benefits”—servers at First Watch typically don’t work late-night shifts. Since the chain focuses on breakfast and brunch, most locations close by 2:30 or 3:00 p.m. This allows servers to have a relatively structured schedule and better work-life balance compared to those working dinner shifts at other restaurants.

Another server mentioned that First Watch offers a more relaxed pace than typical fast-casual or fine-dining establishments, which can be a huge advantage for those who prefer a less hectic work environment, even if it means sacrificing some tip income.

Factors Beyond Just Tips: Perks and Work-Life Balance

While tips are the primary income source for servers, it’s worth noting that First Watch also offers certain perks that many servers appreciate. For instance, some Redditors mentioned that they enjoyed free or discounted meals during shifts, flexible scheduling, and a supportive management team. Additionally, the early hours mean that servers often have their evenings free—a rare benefit in the restaurant industry.

Servers who value work-life balance might choose First Watch over higher-paying but more demanding restaurant jobs. For those who don’t want to work late nights and prefer to have a consistent daytime schedule, First Watch can be an attractive option, even if the tips aren’t sky-high.

Maximizing Tips at First Watch: Strategies from Reddit

If you’re considering working at First Watch or are currently a server looking to increase your earnings, there are a few strategies you can employ to maximize your tips:

• Prioritize Weekend Shifts: As mentioned earlier, the weekend brunch shifts are where you’re likely to make the most money. Try to get scheduled for these busy periods.
• Build a Regular Clientele: Repeat customers tend to tip better when they recognize you and have had positive experiences with your service. Engage with regulars and provide exceptional service to ensure they request your section when they return.
• Upsell Smartly: Offering additional drinks, sides, or desserts can increase the overall check size, which often leads to higher tips. However, be mindful not to be too pushy—customers at First Watch appreciate a relaxed atmosphere.
• Stay Organized: Handling multiple tables efficiently is key to maximizing tips during busy brunch rushes. Servers who can keep their cool and provide timely service, even when the restaurant is packed, often end up with higher tip percentages.

Conclusion: How Much Can You Really Make?

Ultimately, a First Watch server’s income from tips will depend on multiple factors, including location, shift timing, and the quality of service. Servers in high-traffic urban locations, working weekend brunch shifts, and providing top-notch service can expect to make between $100 and $200 in tips per shift. Those in slower, suburban locations or working weekday shifts may see closer to $50–$80 per shift.

For some, First Watch is an ideal job due to its favorable hours and environment, even if the tip income isn’t as high as more upscale dining establishments. Whether you’re looking for a part-time job with flexible hours or are interested in the restaurant’s unique schedule, the potential to make decent tips at First Watch largely depends on how well you navigate these variables.