Customers can now simply scan a QR code on their check to pay. Credit: David Pereiras via Shutterstock.com

American restaurant chain First Watch has partnered with payment technology company Up ‘n go to enhance the dining experience by deploying pay-at-the-table technology.

The restaurant company will implement Up ‘n Go’s pay-at-the-table system at all 420 of its corporately owned eateries in the US.

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First Watch chief operations officer Dan Jones said: “Everything we do is through the lens of bettering the in-restaurant experience for both our customers and our teams – and Up ‘n go’s pay-at-the-table technology does exactly that.

 “As customers opt to use this new option, congestion at the front – especially when we are on a wait – is reduced. Tech improvements like this help us serve even more demand without sacrificing any of the things people love about dining – and working – at First Watch.”

First Watch revealed that more than 125,000 users chose to use the new payment feature in a week.

The technology is anticipated to slash wait times and increase efficiency for the restaurant’s staff.

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Customers can pay their bills without the need to download an app or register for an account. Instead, they can make the payment by scanning a QR code on their check via Apple Pay, Google Pay or a credit card.

The system also allows for an easy way to split the check if necessary.

Up ’n go CEO Touradj Barman said: “Up ’n go dramatically enhances an often overlooked, but extremely important part of the dining experience, which is paying the check.

“Customers want to save time and split checks fairly. Up ’n go helps guests walk out of the restaurant feeling happy, and more likely to recommend the restaurant and return. Up ’n go also makes staff more efficient and helps restaurants serve more covers in less time.”

In March 2024, First Watch Restaurant Group reported a net income of $2.65m for the fourth quarter of 2023. This compares to a net loss of $0.5m during the same period of 2022.