First Watch Temporarily Closes All Maryland Eateries: Coronavirus

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD — First Watch: The Daytime Cafe eateries in Maryland are closing their doors for the time being due to the new coronavirus pandemic. CEO and president Chris Tomasso addressed patrons in a letter shared on the company's website thanking them for their support. He also expressed gratitude to store managers and employees who have stuck with the restaurant chain so far.

"Throughout these past few weeks of trials and tragedy, through sleepless nights worrying about our people and their families, through daily calls with our leadership team to discuss countless scenarios and make nearly impossible decisions, I’ve seen the best in people," Tomasso wrote.

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But after 37 years, the company has temporarily closed the majority of its restaurants across the country for safety's sake.

"Our people are our most important asset, and their physical safety and health, as well as their mental well-being, are always our priority. I carry that responsibility, and it is not something I take lightly," he said. "When we emerge from this event, 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."

First Watch has restaurants in Glen Burnie, Laurel, Bowie, Columbia, Pikesville, Rockville, Timonium and Gaithersburg.

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