First Watch In Gaithersburg Temporarily Closes Due To Coronavirus

GAITHERSBURG, MD — First Watch, a Florida-based restaurant chain with a location in Gaithersburg, has had to close its doors temporarily due to the coronavirus pandemic.

CEO Chris Tomasso made the announcement on the company's website, in which he thanked patrons and employees for their support.

"From the bottom of my heart, thank you," Tomasso wrote. "You have come out in droves to support your local First Watch and every dedicated manager who's been working long hours to ensure we were putting food on your table, and theirs."

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Given the public health crisis — which has sickened more than 630,000 Americans — the CEO has decided to close all company-owned restaurants.

"For 37 years, First Watch has operated around one core principle: You First. It's a simple concept that speaks volumes to us – Our people are our most important asset, and their physical safety and health, as well as their mental wellbeing, are always our priority. I carry that responsibility, and it is not something I take lightly," Tomasso wrote.

The American restaurant chain has locations in Gaithersburg, Rockville, Glen Burnie, Laurel, Bowie, Columbia, Pikesville, and Timonium.

In addition to closing every location, Tomasso said First Watch will cover restaurant owners' out-of-pocket costs, co-pays, and deductibles for medical visits related to COVID-19 and will invest in telemedicine benefits for every employee and their family, at no cost to them.

To help close the pay gap, the CEO said restaurant managers will receive a bonus upon their return to work.

"When we emerge from this event," Tomasso added, "we will do so stronger, and we cannot wait to bring our entire First Watch family back together to serve you when we open our doors once again."

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