First Watch

Maybe it’s a char-grilled steak and a bone-dry martini. Or being in love, playing with the dog or perhaps a new pair of Jimmy Choos. It could also be that warm glow you get looking over a full dining room on those rare nights when everything hums along perfectly.

The local favorite has only two stores, but the deal extends to recipes, the brand name and all intellectual property. First Watch has indicated that it intends to maintain the brand.

Potholes, dead ahead! The first two days of the Restaurant Leadership Conference brought to light a number of looming problems--as well as some possible solutions.