The seasonal brunch concept, First Watch, appears poised to take over the former home of Lone Spur Cafe in Mesa Grand Shopping Center, located at 1859 S Stapley Dr #107, according to a plan review filed with the city earlier this month.
“Our teams have had the privilege of serving the greater Phoenix area for more than three decades, having opened the doors to our first restaurant along Thomas Road in 1992,” First Watch told What Now Phoenix in an email. “We’re grateful to have the opportunity to introduce our unique take on brunch to more of our neighbors with several new restaurant openings in the coming months.”
Although the upcoming Mesa location, which is due to open late winter 2023 or early 2024, will bring the brand’s greater Phoenix footprint to 11, there are nine currently in operation and another – slated to open at 4261 W Thunderbird Rd later next month – listed as coming soon on its website.
A company representative told What Now Phoenix that something “unique” to both locations will be an indoor/outdoor bar, serving First Watch’s signature cocktails.
“That’s something we’re implementing in our ‘urban farm design,'” explains the representative. “So not just that inside, comfy space/farm space/loft, but rather, having that indoor/outdoor bar to invite people in, and really make it an occasion, if you will.”
First Watch is a day-time cafe and brunch concept that was founded four decades ago in Pacific Grove, CA, and has since grown to some 420 locations spread across 28 states.
The company prides itself on a rotating, seasonal menu that is “inspired by the position of the sun.” The result is dishes featuring “vibrant, green California-grown asparagus in April, or the most refreshing Florida watermelon in July, or tender, sweet yellow corn from the midwest in August.”
Similarly, each location pours coffee sourced from the brand’s Project Sunrise initiative, which partners with Columbia-based Mujeres en Café, or Women in Coffee, to ensure that every bean adheres to the highest standards of ethical and sustainable growth.
Aside from the menu’s rotating and seasonal cast, some signature staples include Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowl, Farmhouse Hash, Classic Benedict, and the Baja Turkey Burger.
“Maricopa County has so much to offer as it continues to grow, with plenty of adventure and character that makes it a perfect complement to our evolving menu of breakfast, brunch and lunch, whether you’re having Million Dollar Bacon for lunch or Avocado Toast for breakfast,” said the company. “Our team is so excited to deepen our ties to the local Phoenix community and bring more people around our tables, together, for years to come.”
This article was updated to include a quote from the company.
