Cava

For Mediterranean-style fast-casual, CAVA can't be beat. For those of us who've enjoyed its offerings for years now, it is easy to see how and why it has spread far beyond its Montgomery County Maryland roots to everywhere from Los Angeles to New York and many places in-between. For newcomers, the menu selections might be a bit daunting, since they are unique. While most customers seem to prefer the "build your own bowl" concept, there are so-called "Chef Curated" selections that require only selecting a salad, pita or bowl and they do the rest. Note from the online menu, that one can dine-in, get take-out, or opt for delivery. My favorite protein is spicy lamb meatball. The sauces and toppings include many flavorful and potentially spicy (but not all) options traditional Greek Tzatziki, several versions of hummus, Harissa, and lemon herb tahini. Another reason CAVA has grown in popularity is that it provides healthful options at a good value. This is part of the beauty of the fast casual concept, similar to Chipotle only in the style of the "go down the line" service. There is no alcohol served, but there are plenty of options including sparking water and Maine Root fountain sodas. The quality of the service from the staff here varies. Over the years, I've had some who were not particularly engaging or highly professional. I've also had difficulty ordering online and the app which includes a rewards opportunity can be glitchy. None of that ultimately significantly detracts from CAVA's delicious food, which stretches flavors in a way that delights customers.

It is not a self-service restaurant but you have some diverse options meet your needs. Very fresh materials especially vegetables. I love Chicken Right-rice in Bowl (it was $11.80 with 750 Kcl) Was on a weekend evening however it was not so crowded. Our three bowls were promptly prepared. All was a good mix of healthy ingredients and fresh vegetables. It would be better not to mix all the ingredients as some of them were cold and the others should be served hot, but it was not a bad thing as a whole. I think it could be better to ask them to let you choose which ones you like to go together. Although I didn’t ask, I would rather not do mix onions or peppers with rices. It is good place to dine in if you are less than 5 people as there isn’t enough seats for many guests. The packing is very good if you want to take away.

I love how I can have guilt-free food here. Love their super greens, eggplant, harissa, spicy chicken, tomato and cucumber, tahini, and shkhug. They have a rewards program and while service isn’t the warmest (typical of chain restaurants), the staff is quick and efficient. Love having this place so close by!

Easily one of my favorite fast casual places of all time. I will eat cava as often as I can. Their food is delicious and fresh and so well flavored - but nothing is overwhelming neither would it oppose a picky eater. I’ve eaten almost everything on the menu and in different combinations and my favorite is consistently the braised lamb (worth paying extra for it) and the pita. All condiments are delicious - I think the kalamata olives go well with everything and the lemon herb tahini dressing is my favorite. I would recommend this place to anyone! And mobile order pickup always works perfectly.