First Watch is the classic cafe–with a bit of an upgrade. Unlike many local cafes, at Fresh Watch you can expect health-conscious, carefully-selected ingredients in your favorite dishes, from pancakes to avocado toast. Ingredients like fresh, cage-free eggs, freshly-baked muffins, and fresh fruits and vegetables chopped the same day all combine to create a better-than-average breakfast and brunch experience.
When you’re first seated, you’ll be served a full pot of coffee–not just a cup. Wi-Fi is always available and free, dining rooms are clean and comfortable, and menus offer something for everyone–from omelets and frittatas to Belgian waffles to quinoa power bowls to fresh green juice. Friendly, attentive servivce keeps you well-stocked, and food is prepped and served quickly; no heat lamps or deep fryers here.
Lovers of the traditional eggs, bacon, and hash browns breakfasts will find the perfect option here, but so will health conscious diners and those with dietary restrictions. The ingredients in each plate are available right on the menu, and gluten-free items are clearly marked, making it easier to find the perfect dish to meet dietary preferences and needs.
Both locals and vacationers keep coming back to First Watch for their welcoming, low-key environment and excellent staple items. Their cold brew is always on point, never bitter; and their pancakes are a step above the typical diner pancakes that taste like they came from a box.
Some of our menu favorites include:
Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowl
A lunchtime powerhouse, the pesto chicken quinoa bowl is as good as it sounds: grilled chicken atop a cloud of pillowy quinoa, which has been tossed with kale, shredded carrots, and house-roasted tomatoes. The entire bowl is topped with basil pesto sauce, feta crumbles, and fresh herbs. It’s more than enough food to fill you up without weighing you down–an awesome choice before an afternoon of hitting the beach or exploring downtown Destin.
Sunrise Granola Bowl
A breakfast favorite, First Watch’s sunrise granola bowl leaves nothing to be desired. It combines the perfect combination of non-fat vanilla Greek yogurt, house-made granola, fresh seasonal fruit, and nuts for a fresh and filling breakfast that hits the spot.
Tomato Basil Soup
Available as a side, Fresh Watch offers a creamy tomato basil soup that’s a showstopper on its own. Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich, and you’re in for lunch comfort food perfection.
Destin’s Fresh Watch location is nestled in the Paradise Key shopping center at Kelly Plantation. You’ll find it right next to the Publix supermarket.
Insider Tips:
– First Watch serves their full menu all day (until they close midafternoon), so it’s a safe bet even if you roll out of bed late on a Saturday.
– It can get quite busy at First Watch during prime breakfast hours; go early or a bit later (after 10 am or so) to miss the bulk of the crowds.