Above, workers recently installed signs on the soon-to-open flagship First Watch restaurant in Winter Park.
After more than 25 years, the Maitland location of First Watch, the popular breakfast and lunch restaurant, will close after lunch service on Sunday, Feb. 21.
The closing is in anticipation of the opening of company’s new flagship and prototype restaurant in Winter Park on Monday, March 1. The new location, at 140 Orlando Ave., occupies the former Cinco Tacos + Tequila building, which began its restaurant life as Carmel Cafe and Wine Bar (it had been an office building before that).
The Winter Park First Watch will feature an outdoor patio and an indoor/outdoor bar. The bar will serve the restaurant’s line of brunchy cocktails.
Most of the staff from the Maitland First Watch will relocate to the new restaurant, according to Gina Merianos, spokeswoman for the Florida based chain.
Prior to the March 1 launch, the Winter Park First Watch will host a soft opening fundraising event of Feb. 27 and 28. The preview will be by invitation only, but those interested in attending can visit the restaurant’s website to sign up to receive an invite.