In the mood to eat out at First Watch? If you have celiac disease or gluten intolerance, be sure to check out this First Watch gluten free menu guide before heading out.
First Watch was recognized as a food allergy champion in 2019. However, their website is not very helpful in providing information about gluten-free options.
Although they offer Udi's gluten-free bread for all of their sandwiches, they do not specify whether their aioli or sauces are gluten-free.
I have scoured through First Watch's official allergen menu to find the most up-to-date information for you.
However, keep in mind that menus change often is important, so always check with your server. Read on to learn everything you need to know about First Watch's gluten free menu options.
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History of First Watch
First Watch, a popular breakfast, brunch, and lunch restaurant, began its journey in 1983. The founders, Ken Pendery and John Sullivan, had a vision to provide a unique daytime dining option for their customers.
The name "First Watch" is a nautical term that refers to the first shift of the day, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to early risers and breakfast lovers.
From its humble beginnings in Pacific Grove, California, First Watch has expanded to over 200 locations across the United States.
Despite its growth, the restaurant continues to uphold its original values of serving fresh, made-to-order meals in a welcoming environment.
Is First Watch Gluten Free?
While there is definitely a way to eat gluten-free at First Watch, they do not have a dedicated gluten free menu.
It’s important to inform your server if you have food allergies or sensitivities while dining there. On their official website, they clearly that that their gluten-free items are prepared on shared equipment, so cross-contact is likely.
Plus, you may request that your order be prepared using their special allergen handling procedures. However, they still mentioned that they cannot guarantee that cross-contact with allergens will not occur.
First Watch Gluten-Free Menu 2024 (Latest)
Classic Favorites
Note: Inform your server to substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread.
- The Traditional
Healthier Side
Note: Inform your server to substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread.
- Avocado Toast
- Healthy Turkey
- Tri-Athlete
Egg-Sclusives
Note: Inform your server to substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread.
- Farmhouse Hash
- Market Hash
Power Bowls
Fortunately, the power bowls are gluten-free and don’t require any substitutions!
- Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowl
- Power Breakfast Quinoa Bowl
Sandwiches
It's important to note that gluten-free bread can be used as a substitute. However, the website fails to mention whether any dressings contain gluten. To be on the safe side, I have not included them here.
Tips for Ordering Gluten Free at First Watch
- Communicating is Key: Always let your server know about your dietary restrictions. They can guide you through the menu and help you make safe choices.
- Ask Questions: If you're unsure about an item, don't hesitate to ask. The staff at First Watch is knowledgeable about their menu and can provide you with the information you need.
- Customize Your Order: Don't be afraid to ask for modifications. Many dishes can be made gluten-free by substituting certain ingredients, especially the bread.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Mention your allergies to the staff so that they can ensure that your food is prepared in a separate area to avoid cross-contamination with gluten-containing foods.
foodie_jen89 says
It's interesting to see how First Watch adapts to dietary needs. However, without a dedicated gluten-free menu, I wonder how they manage cross-contamination risks.
Dave_K says
i hear all this talk about gluten free but like, does it actually taste good? or is it like eating cardboard lmao. anyone tried it?
Sammy22 says
heard about the power bowls being gluten free, that's legit! but does anyone know if they can do dairy free too? gotta manage my intolerances haha.
LactoseFreeLad says
Yeah they can sort out dairy-free too, just ask for no cheese or dairy dressings. Been there, done that, and it was still delicious!