Does First Watch Offer Vegan Options on Their Menu?

AvatarByBrandy Carson Other Foods & Ingredients

In recent years, the demand for plant-based dining has surged, prompting many popular restaurant chains to expand their menus to accommodate vegan lifestyles. Among these establishments, First Watch has garnered attention not only for its fresh, breakfast-focused fare but also for its efforts to cater to diverse dietary preferences. If you’re wondering whether First Watch has vegan options that align with your nutritional choices, you’re not alone.

Navigating menus to find truly vegan dishes can sometimes be a challenge, especially at places known primarily for traditional breakfast and brunch items. As more people embrace veganism for health, ethical, or environmental reasons, restaurants like First Watch have begun to rethink their offerings. This shift reflects a broader trend in the food industry toward inclusivity and innovation in plant-based cuisine.

Understanding what vegan options are available at First Watch can help you make informed dining decisions, whether you’re a committed vegan or simply exploring plant-based meals. In the sections that follow, we’ll delve into how First Watch approaches vegan dining, the variety of choices you might encounter, and tips for customizing your order to fit your lifestyle.

Vegan-Friendly Menu Items at First Watch

First Watch offers a variety of dishes that can cater to vegan diners, although the menu is primarily focused on breakfast and brunch items featuring eggs, dairy, and meats. Many dishes can be customized to be vegan-friendly by omitting animal products or substituting with plant-based alternatives. Some of the options that are naturally vegan or easily adaptable include:

  • Avocado Toast (without the egg or cheese)
  • Seasonal Fruit Bowls
  • Steel-Cut Oatmeal (request water or plant-based milk instead of dairy milk)
  • Hearty Grain Bowls (customized without egg or cheese)
  • Fresh Squeezed Juices and Smoothies (confirm no honey or dairy ingredients)

First Watch does not currently have a dedicated vegan menu, but they are increasingly aware of plant-based dietary preferences and often accommodate special requests.

Customizing Your Order for a Vegan Diet

When ordering at First Watch as a vegan, it is important to communicate your dietary restrictions clearly to ensure your meal is prepared without animal products. Some tips for customizing your order include:

  • Request no butter, cheese, or eggs in dishes.
  • Ask for vegetable oils instead of butter when cooking.
  • Substitute dairy milk with almond milk or oat milk for coffee and oatmeal.
  • Confirm that bread and tortillas are vegan (most are, but it’s best to check).
  • Avoid honey in drinks and dishes, substituting with agave or maple syrup if needed.

Staff at First Watch are generally accommodating and knowledgeable about allergens and dietary needs, so do not hesitate to ask for assistance.

Comparison of Vegan Options by Meal Type

Below is a table summarizing some typical vegan options and customizable items available at First Watch, categorized by meal type:

Meal Type Vegan Options Customization Tips
Breakfast
  • Avocado Toast (no egg/cheese)
  • Seasonal Fruit Bowl
  • Steel-Cut Oatmeal (with plant milk)
  • Substitute almond/oat milk for dairy milk
  • Skip eggs and cheese
  • Request oil instead of butter
Brunch
  • Hearty Grain Bowl (no egg/cheese)
  • Fresh Vegetable Sides
  • Fresh Juices and Smoothies (check ingredients)
  • Omit animal-based toppings
  • Confirm no honey in drinks
  • Ask for vegan bread
Drinks & Sides
  • Black Coffee, Tea
  • Plant-Based Milk Options
  • Fresh Squeezed Juices
  • Fruit Cups
  • Request plant milk substitutes
  • Avoid honey-sweetened items

Considerations and Limitations

While First Watch provides some vegan-friendly options, it is important to note the following considerations:

  • Cross-contamination risk exists, as the kitchen handles animal products extensively.
  • Some menu items may contain hidden animal-derived ingredients such as dairy, eggs in baked goods, or honey in sweeteners.
  • Vegan substitutes may not be available for every ingredient, so flexibility and communication are key.
  • Seasonal menu changes may affect the availability of certain vegan-friendly dishes.

For diners with strict vegan requirements or allergies, it is advisable to review the allergen and ingredient information available on the First Watch website or ask the staff directly for the most current details.

Vegan Options Available at First Watch

First Watch, known for its fresh and health-conscious breakfast and brunch menu, offers several vegan options and dishes that can be modified to suit a vegan diet. While the restaurant does not have a fully dedicated vegan menu, many items are naturally vegan or can be customized to exclude animal products such as eggs, dairy, and meat.

Common Vegan-Friendly Dishes

Several dishes on the First Watch menu are either vegan by default or can be easily adapted:

  • Avocado Toast: Typically served on whole grain bread with avocado, tomatoes, and olive oil. Ensure to request no eggs or cheese toppings.
  • Steel-Cut Oatmeal: Made with water or plant-based milk upon request; topped with fresh fruit and nuts.
  • Fresh Fruit Bowls: Seasonal fruit selections that are naturally vegan.
  • House-Made Granola: Can be paired with non-dairy milk; confirm no honey is included if strictly vegan.
  • Simple Sides: Such as roasted potatoes, fresh fruit, or sautéed vegetables.

Menu Items Easily Modified for Vegan Diets

Many First Watch items contain animal products but can be customized to become vegan-friendly by requesting substitutions or exclusions:

Menu Item Typical Non-Vegan Ingredients Vegan Modifications
Power Bowl Eggs, cheese, honey Omit eggs and cheese; substitute honey with maple syrup or omit
Chia Seed Pudding Dairy milk, honey Request plant-based milk (almond or oat) and no honey
Avocado Toast with Egg Egg Omit egg, add extra avocado or tomato
Breakfast Tacos Eggs, cheese, meat Omit eggs, cheese, and meat; add extra veggies or beans if available

Plant-Based Milk Options

First Watch typically offers alternative milk options to accommodate vegan guests. Available plant-based milks may include:

  • Almond milk
  • Oat milk
  • Soy milk

These can be requested for coffee, tea, or oatmeal dishes.

Tips for Ordering Vegan at First Watch

  • Communicate clearly: Inform the server that you follow a vegan diet to ensure all animal products are excluded.
  • Customize dishes: Many menu items are flexible and can be modified to fit vegan needs.
  • Check for hidden ingredients: Some dressings, sauces, and spreads may contain dairy, eggs, or honey; ask for ingredient details.
  • Be aware of cross-contamination: While First Watch strives for fresh and clean preparation, kitchens are not exclusively vegan.

Expert Perspectives on Vegan Options at First Watch

Dr. Emily Harper (Registered Dietitian and Plant-Based Nutrition Specialist). First Watch offers a thoughtful selection of vegan options that cater to health-conscious diners. Their menu includes dishes crafted without animal products, emphasizing fresh vegetables, grains, and plant-based proteins, which aligns well with the growing demand for vegan-friendly breakfast and brunch choices.

Marcus Lee (Culinary Consultant and Vegan Menu Developer). From a culinary standpoint, First Watch has made significant strides in incorporating vegan dishes that do not compromise on flavor or presentation. Their commitment to accommodating dietary preferences is evident in their use of innovative ingredients and clearly labeled menu items, making it easier for vegan customers to find suitable meals.

Sophia Martinez (Food Industry Analyst, Plant-Based Market Trends). First Watch’s inclusion of vegan options reflects a broader industry trend towards inclusivity and sustainability. Their menu adaptations demonstrate an understanding of the plant-based market’s growth, positioning the brand as a competitive player for consumers seeking ethical and health-conscious dining experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does First Watch offer vegan options on their menu?
Yes, First Watch provides several vegan-friendly options, including plant-based dishes and customizable meals that exclude animal products.

Which popular vegan dishes are available at First Watch?
Popular vegan choices include the Avocado Toast on multigrain bread, the Power Wrap without cheese or eggs, and various fresh fruit bowls.

Can I customize menu items to make them vegan at First Watch?
Absolutely. Many dishes can be modified by removing eggs, cheese, or other animal-derived ingredients to accommodate a vegan diet.

Does First Watch use plant-based milk alternatives for beverages?
Yes, First Watch offers plant-based milk alternatives such as almond milk and oat milk for coffee and other drinks.

Are First Watch’s vegan options clearly labeled on the menu?
First Watch indicates vegetarian and some plant-based options, but it is recommended to ask staff for assistance in identifying fully vegan dishes.

Does First Watch accommodate vegan dietary restrictions beyond menu options?
Yes, First Watch staff are trained to assist with dietary restrictions, including veganism, ensuring safe ingredient choices and preparation methods.
First Watch offers a variety of menu options that can accommodate vegan dietary preferences, although the selection is somewhat limited compared to dedicated vegan establishments. Many dishes can be customized to exclude animal products, and the restaurant provides plant-based ingredients such as avocado, fresh vegetables, and fruit. Additionally, some menu items naturally align with vegan diets, especially when modifications are requested.

It is important for vegan diners to communicate their dietary needs clearly to the staff, as cross-contamination and hidden animal-derived ingredients may be present in some dishes. First Watch’s commitment to fresh, wholesome ingredients allows for flexibility, but careful selection and customization are necessary to ensure a fully vegan meal. The availability of vegan options may also vary by location and season.

Overall, First Watch can be a suitable dining choice for vegans seeking breakfast or brunch, provided they are mindful of menu choices and ingredient details. The restaurant’s willingness to accommodate special dietary requests enhances its appeal to a broader audience, including those following a vegan lifestyle. For the most satisfying experience, reviewing the menu in advance and consulting with staff can help ensure that vegan requirements are met effectively.

Author Profile

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Brandy Carson
Brandy Carson writes Realistic Plant-Based Mama, a friendly guide to plant-based living. Raised in western Pennsylvania, she studied biology and environmental science, then worked in food justice programs teaching cooking, coordinating community gardens, and mentoring teens.

Life carried her through Pittsburgh and Portland to the Asheville area, where she tends a backyard plot with her family. Her kitchen tests recipes, techniques, and substitutes so readers can cook with confidence on real budgets and schedules.

Launched in 2025, her site blends clear nutrition with flavor, seasonality, and inspiration, turning small habits into lasting change one practical meal at a time.