First Watch (Sicklerville)

Daytime Dining Elevated: A South Jersey Brunch & Cocktail Gem

Forget everything you think you know about breakfast and lunch spots. First Watch in Sicklerville isn’t just a place to grab eggs; it’s a premier “Daytime Café” experience that has finally brought its fresh, innovative, and award-winning concept—complete with a full bar—to South Jersey.

As dining enthusiasts, we appreciate First Watch’s unwavering commitment to the culinary philosophy of freshness. Everything is prepared to order, from the ingredients sliced daily to the house-made granola. They proudly avoid heat lamps and deep fryers, ensuring every plate, from their rotating seasonal menus to their classic favorites, is vibrant and ready for your Instagram feed.

A Look at the History: The First Watch story began in 1983 in Pacific Grove, California, founded by Ken Pendery and John Sullivan. The name itself is a nautical term referring to the very first shift of the day—a concept that defines their hours (7:00 AM to 2:30 PM daily). They built the brand on the “You First” philosophy, prioritizing employees so they, in turn, can deliver exceptional service to guests. This commitment has earned the national chain hundreds of “Best Breakfast” awards across the country.

Features that Shine: The Sicklerville location, situated conveniently near the AC Expressway, is particularly noteworthy for DrinkSJ readers: it is the first First Watch in New Jersey to offer a full bar. This means you can elevate your weekend brunch with expertly crafted drinks.

• Brunch Cocktail Bar: Enjoy signature eye-openers like the Million Dollar Bloody Mary, classic Mimosas, and creative offerings like the Spiked Lavender Lemonade.

• The Juice Bar: A refreshing counterpoint to the cocktails, the in-house juice bar delivers fresh-squeezed concoctions like the signature Kale Tonic and Morning Meditation.

• The Menu: The chef-inspired menu is a mix of tradition and innovation. Must-try fan favorites include the sweet-and-savory Million Dollar Bacon, the creamy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, and the globally inspired Chickichanga. They cater to all dietary preferences, offering extensive options across their “Healthier Side”, as well as delicious gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian choices.

• Ambiance: The space features a bright, airy, and cheerful design with a modern farmhouse feel, perfect for a casual date, family gathering, or a morning meet-up. They also feature a lovely outdoor patio for enjoying brunch on a sunny day.

First Watch Sicklerville is more than just a daytime spot; it’s a destination for high-quality food and the perfect brunch cocktail to start your day right in South Jersey.

Details can change, check the site or socials for the latest menus, hours, and events.