First Watch Avocado Toast – Restaurant Copycat Recipe

First watch avocado toast recipe may look like a simple breakfast, but the version served at First Watch proves it’s so much more than just mashed avocado on bread.

With the right mix of fresh, wholesome ingredients, it turns into a satisfying, flavorful dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

It’s no surprise that avocado toast has earned its spot as a go-to breakfast for so many people. Topped with egg, the combination of creamy avocado and crisp, toasted bread makes it one of the easiest yet most satisfying meals to enjoy.

During my first visit to First Watch, starting the day with their avocado toast and a hot cup of coffee felt like such a memorable experience.

The balance of flavors, the fresh ingredients, and the cozy atmosphere left me wanting more.

That’s when I decided to recreate their version at home, and to my surprise, the homemade copycat recipe captured the same delicious satisfaction.

Today, I present to you copycat first watch avocado toast recipe.

What Bread Does First Watch Use for Avocado Toast

First Watch uses thick-cut whole grain artisan bread for their famous avocado toast, and this choice makes all the difference in the final dish.

The bread needs to be sturdy enough to hold all the toppings without getting soggy, yet soft enough to bite through easily.

Their artisan bread has a perfect balance of hearty texture and mild flavor that doesn’t compete with the avocado mixture.

When you’re shopping for bread at home, look for a good quality whole grain loaf that’s dense but not too heavy.

The thick cut is important because thin bread will break under the weight of the toppings. I usually ask the bakery to cut my bread about three-quarters of an inch thick.

How to Pick the Perfect Avocado

When I hold an avocado in my hand, I give it a gentle squeeze. If it feels firm but has a little give, it’s ready to use. Too hard means it’s not ripe yet, and too soft means it’s overripe.

Another trick is to check under the small stem cap. If it comes off easily and the color is green, you’ve got a good avocado. I usually buy a few at different ripeness stages so I always have one ready when I want toast.

First Watch Avocado Toast Ingredients

For the Avocado Mix:

• 2 ripe avocados – Choose avocados that give slightly when pressed. You can substitute with 1 large avocado if that’s what you have.
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped – Fresh basil adds a sweet, peppery flavor. You can use dried basil (1 teaspoon) if fresh isn’t available.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Flat-leaf parsley works best, but curly parsley is fine too. Dried parsley (1 teaspoon) can substitute.
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped – If you don’t like cilantro, you can skip it or add more parsley instead.
• 1 clove garlic, grated – Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
• 1/2 jalapeño, finely diced – Remove seeds for less heat. You can use serrano pepper for more spice or skip it entirely.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Sea salt or kosher salt works best.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground pepper tastes better than pre-ground.
• Juice of 1/2 lime – Fresh lime juice prevents browning and adds brightness. Lemon juice works as a substitute.
• 1 medium tomato, diced – Use roma or vine-ripened tomatoes for best flavor.
• 1/4 red onion, finely diced – Red onion adds a mild bite. You can use white onion or shallots instead.
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes – optional, for extra spice

For the Toast:

• 2 thick slices whole grain artisan bread – Look for bread that’s at least 1/2 inch thick.
• 2 tablespoons butter – For toasting the bread. You can use olive oil instead.

For the Scrambled Eggs:

• 4 large eggs – Room temperature eggs work best for fluffy scrambled eggs.
• 3 tablespoons butter – This makes the eggs extra creamy.
• 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional) – Adds richness and tang. Greek yogurt can substitute.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika for garnish (optional) – Adds color and a mild smoky flavor.

Recommended Kitchen Equipment

1. Large mixing bowl – For mashing and mixing the avocado
2. Potato masher or fork – To mash the avocado to your desired texture
3. Sharp knife – For dicing vegetables and slicing herbs
4. Cutting board – A large one makes prep work easier
5. Large skillet or pan – For toasting bread and scrambling eggs
6. Medium saucepan – For making the scrambled eggs
7. Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the eggs
8. Grater – For grating the garlic
9. Citrus juicer (optional) – Makes it easier to get lime juice

How To Make First Watch Avocado Toast Recipe

Step 1 | Prepare the Avocado Mix

Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Use a spoon to scoop out the flesh into a large mixing bowl. To make mashing easier, cut the avocado into rough chunks before you start mashing.

Take your potato masher and mash the avocado to your liking. I like mine a bit chunky, not completely smooth. Cut your lime in half and squeeze the juice over the mashed avocado right away. This keeps it from turning brown.

Add salt, pepper, and red chili flakes (if using) to the avocado. Mix everything together well.

Step 2 | Add the Fresh Herbs

For the basil, stack the leaves on top of each other, roll them up tight, and slice them into thin ribbons. This is called a chiffonade cut and it gives you perfect herb pieces.

Do the same thing with the parsley and cilantro – bunch them up and slice across to make small pieces. Add all the herbs to your avocado mix and stir them in.

Step 3 | Prepare the Vegetables

For the jalapeño, cut off both ends first. Slice it lengthwise into thin strips, then cut across to make tiny dices. Remember, the seeds make it spicier, so remove them if you want less heat.

For the tomato, cut out the core at the top. Then dice it up just like you would an onion – make cuts one way, then turn and cut the other way.

For the red onion, make vertical cuts from top to bottom, then slice across to create fine dices. Add the jalapeño, tomato, and onion to your avocado mix.

Step 4 | Finish the Avocado Mix

Grate the garlic clove directly into the bowl using a fine grater. This spreads the garlic flavor evenly throughout the mix. Stir everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5 | Toast the Bread

Heat your skillet over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt. Place your thick slices of bread in the pan and toast until golden brown on both sides. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. The bread should be crispy outside but still soft inside.

Step 6 | Make the Scrambled Eggs

Crack your 4 eggs into the saucepan and add the 3 tablespoons of butter. Here’s the secret to perfect scrambled eggs – cook them on and off the heat.

Put the pan on medium-low heat and stir constantly with a wooden spoon. When the eggs start to thicken, take the pan off the heat but keep stirring. Put it back on heat for a few seconds, then off again. Keep doing this until you have creamy, fluffy scrambled eggs.

This takes about 8-10 minutes but it’s worth it for the texture. When the eggs are almost done, stir in the sour cream if using. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 7 | Assemble Your Toast and Serve

Place your toasted bread on plates. Spread a generous amount of the avocado mixture on each slice. Top with the creamy scrambled eggs. Sprinkle with paprika and extra black pepper if you like.

Serve right away while the toast is still warm and the eggs are fluffy.

Tips for Perfect Avocado Toast

• Make your avocado mixture just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent browning
• Toast your bread in butter instead of a toaster for better flavor and texture
• Keep scrambled eggs slightly underdone since they continue cooking after you remove them from heat
• Dice your vegetables small so every bite has a good mix of flavors
• Use room temperature eggs for smoother scrambling
• Don’t add salt to eggs until the very end to prevent them from becoming tough
• Grate garlic fresh for the best flavor instead of using pre-minced garlic
• Taste your avocado mix before assembling and adjust seasonings as needed
• Remove jalapeño seeds if you want less spice (they hold most of the heat)
• Let the herbs dry fully before chopping so they mix in cleanly without watering down the avocado
• Use thick-cut bread so it holds up under the toppings without getting soggy

Serving Ideas for First Watch Avocado Toast

This toast is filling enough on its own, but there are fun ways to serve it. Sometimes I top mine with sliced radish, feta cheese, or smoked salmon.

Other days, I like to keep it classic with just avocado and egg.

At First Watch, they serve their avocado toast with two basted eggs on the side and a slice of lemon to squeeze over the top. That simple touch makes the flavors pop even more.

At home, you can add a small salad, roasted potatoes, or fresh fruit for a full breakfast plate.

How to Store Avocado Toast

Storing avocado toast can be tricky, because the bread will soak up moisture and the avocado can brown. If you have leftovers, the best way is to keep the components separate.

Store the mashed avocado mixture in an airtight container in the fridge (a little extra lime juice helps prevent browning). Keep the eggs and bread slices on the side, also covered.

The bread can be wrapped in foil or a bag in the fridge.

Reheat the eggs gently in a pan and toast the bread again before serving. This dish is not great for freezing.

Avocados change texture in the freezer, and toasted bread loses its crunch. Eat any leftovers within 1–2 days.

Throw it away if you smell any sour or off odors, or if you see mold or brown slimy spots.

First Watch Avocado Toast Recipe FAQs

1. Can I make it without eggs?

Absolutely. You can skip the eggs if you like a simpler version. The toast will still be delicious with just the creamy avocado and seasoning.

For protein, try topping it with things like sliced tomato or cooked beans, or simply enjoy it as is. You can also use a tofu scramble instead of eggs for a vegan option. I often make it with just avocado, and it tastes great.

2. What is the best way to smash avocado?

The best way to mash avocado is with a potato masher in a large bowl. First, cut the avocado into chunks to make mashing easier.

Use gentle pressure and don’t over-mash – you want some texture, not baby food. A fork works too, but it takes longer. Some people like to use a pastry cutter or even the back of a large spoon.

3. Is avocado good for breakfast?

Avocado is excellent for breakfast because it’s packed with healthy fats, fiber, and potassium. These nutrients help keep you full and energized throughout the morning.

4. Can I use regular sandwich bread?

You can, but I recommend thick bread. Regular sliced bread might get soggy under the toppings. If sandwich bread is all you have, toast it well so it stays firm.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

The bread and eggs are best fresh. But you can make the avocado mix a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge with lime juice on top. Assemble right before eating.

6. How do I prevent my eggs from getting rubbery?

The secret to creamy scrambled eggs like the ones at First Watch is low heat and constant stirring. Cook your eggs over medium-low heat and keep them moving in the pan with a wooden spoon or spatula. Take the pan on and off the heat as needed to control the temperature.

The eggs should cook slowly and look creamy rather than firm and chunky. Adding the butter directly to the raw eggs helps create that rich, restaurant-style texture.

First Watch Avocado Toast Recipe

Recreate First Watch's famous avocado toast at home with this easy 30-minute recipe. Fresh avocado, artisan bread, and secret seasonings for restaurant-quality results every time.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 29 minutes mins

Servings: 2

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

For the Avocado Mix

• 2 ripe avocados
• 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
• 1 clove garlic grated
• 1/2 jalapeño finely diced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• 1 medium tomato diced
• 1/4 red onion finely diced
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes optional

For the Toast

• 2 thick slices whole grain artisan bread
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil

For the Scrambled Eggs

• 4 large eggs
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp sour cream optional, or Greek yogurt
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika optional, for garnish

Method

 

1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Use a spoon to scoop out the flesh into a large mixing bowl. To make mashing easier, cut the avocado into rough chunks before you start mashing.
2. Take your potato masher and mash the avocado to your liking. I like mine a bit chunky, not completely smooth. Cut your lime in half and squeeze the juice over the mashed avocado right away. This keeps it from turning brown.
3. Add salt, pepper, and red chili flakes (if using) to the avocado. Mix everything together well.
4. For the basil, stack the leaves on top of each other, roll them up tight, and slice them into thin ribbons. This is called a chiffonade cut and it gives you perfect herb pieces.
5. Do the same thing with the parsley and cilantro—bunch them up and slice across to make small pieces. Add all the herbs to your avocado mix and stir them in.
6. For the jalapeño, cut off both ends first. Slice it lengthwise into thin strips, then cut across to make tiny dices. Remember, the seeds make it spicier, so remove them if you want less heat.
7. For the tomato, cut out the core at the top. Then dice it up just like you would an onion—make cuts one way, then turn and cut the other way.
8. For the red onion, make vertical cuts from top to bottom, then slice across to create fine dices. Add the jalapeño, tomato, and onion to your avocado mix.
9. Grate the garlic clove directly into the bowl using a fine grater. This spreads the garlic flavor evenly throughout the mix. Stir everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
10. Heat your skillet over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt. Place your thick slices of bread in the pan and toast until golden brown on both sides. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. The bread should be crispy outside but still soft inside.
11. Crack your 4 eggs into the saucepan and add the 3 tablespoons of butter. Here’s the secret to perfect scrambled eggs—cook them on and off the heat.
12. Put the pan on medium-low heat and stir constantly with a wooden spoon. When the eggs start to thicken, take the pan off the heat but keep stirring. Put it back on heat for a few seconds, then off again. Keep doing this until you have creamy, fluffy scrambled eggs.
13. This takes about 8-10 minutes but it’s worth it for the texture. When the eggs are almost done, stir in the sour cream if using. Season with salt and pepper.
14. Place your toasted bread on plates. Spread a generous amount of the avocado mixture on each slice. Top with the creamy scrambled eggs. Sprinkle with paprika and extra black pepper if you like.
15. Serve right away while the toast is still warm and the eggs are fluffy.

This first watch avocado toast recipe brings the popular restaurant dish right to your kitchen. With fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this satisfying breakfast any day of the week.

Give this recipe a try and taste why First Watch’s version has become such a favorite among breakfast lovers everywhere.