Katharina Buczek
Still, many of the video’s viewers had never heard of CAVA and wanted to learn more. So, let’s break down the business.
CAVA was founded by three friends– Ted, Ike, and Dimitri– who all “grew up with loud Greek families,” according to the restaurant’s website.
Apparently, the friends’ mission is to provide healthy but satisfying food options. The restaurant operates much like a Chipotle or Cabo Fresh, where patrons approach the counter and accompany a worker down the ingredient line.
Customers start with a “base”– which can consist of salad, pita, or a grain bowl– before moving on to proteins and toppings.
Some popular proteins include falafel, spicy lamb meatballs, and harissa honey chicken, while the topping options range from salt-brined pickles to kalamata olives.
Finally, the dips and spreads are reminiscent of traditional Greek cuisine, such as tzatziki, hummus, and “crazy feta.”
CAVA also has locations throughout twenty-two states but is clearly a fan favorite among the NYC corporate community. The midtown location currently has a 4.3-star rating on Google, with the most prevalent complaint among consumers being the chaotic lunchtime rush coupled with understaffing.
If you have been to CAVA, do you think the crazy wait times are worth it? And if you have not tried the restaurant yet, do you plan to?
To watch Hannah’s original TikTok, visit the link here.
