First Watch has been named the most loved workplace in America for the second year in a row. The dining company based in east Manatee County topped the 2025 Most Loved Workplaces list compiled by the Best Practice Institute, which surveyed more than 2.8 million employees.
The recognition comes as First Watch is undergoing significant growth — it has more than 16,000 employees and over 600 restaurants. When it was named the Most Loved Workplace in 2024, the company had more than 15,000 employees and over 535 restaurants.
“Being named America’s #1 Most Loved Workplace for the second consecutive year is a tremendous honor that reflects the heart of our company – our people,” First Watch Chief People Officer Laura Sorensen says in a statement. “At First Watch, our employees are the reason we exist, and we’re deeply committed to enhancing their lives through meaningful benefits and impactful programs.”…