For those Chipotle fans out there, consider checking out Cava, a Mediterranean fast-casual restaurant that follows the same concept as the Mexican grill.
In fact, the Brea location, which opened over the summer, offers arguably better options. Although Cava found its start nearly 18 years ago, it just recently began gaining a lot of popularity through social media and word of mouth.
A “Build Your Own” option entices visitors because they can choose whether they would rather opt for a pita wrap or a bowl to go with some popular dishes including the Steak and Feta Pita ($15.55) and the Harissa Avocado Bowl ($16.45). The cost of the dish may change depending on any ingredients the customer decides to add.
The pitas incorporate a choice of protein or falafel balls for those who prefer vegetarian options; in fact, all items provide the selection, making it a convenient fast-food choice for those who choose not to eat meat. Also, the bowls come in a variety of salad, rice (referred to as a “grains” bowl on the menu) or a bowl mixed with greens and grains.
Founded in 2006 by three childhood friends looking to pay homage to their Greek roots, the restaurant saw its first opening in Maryland and continued to open chains on the East Coast before finally coming to the West Coast, according to the Cava website.
During a visit to Cava’s Brea location on Friday, Sept. 27, the Steak and Feta Wrap ($15.55) was ordered.
As customers fall in line to order the pita, employees in blue bandannas greet them with a smile on their face, ready to prepare the orders.
The first step to making the wrap involves heating the pita and then moving forward to the spread station, where they add their house-made red pepper hummus. Also in the pita was the grilled steak, creamy feta, pickles, romaine lettuce, garlic dressing and Greek vinaigrette. Although not in the description of ingredients included in the pita, making any additions to the order is possible along with substituting anything undesirable.
The entire order summed up to $16.76, including sales tax.
In this dish, the amount of pickles was lessened, as per request, and pickled red onions were added, providing a tangy taste to the wrap. The combination of Mediterranean-influenced flavors with the simple, yet warm pita feels like a warm hug to the stomach and provides an unforgettable culinary experience. Similar to Chipotle, customers may select their desired toppings, but the portion sizes at Cava are much larger, giving visitors a bang for their buck.
Along with the food, the restaurant’s interior has a welcoming and minimalistic atmosphere. All the tables and chairs are made of a uniform wood texture. Beside the drinks station, a series of five wooden shelves filed one on top of the other with to-go Cava bags add to the warm aesthetic.
Additionally, six thin, paper-like lamps radiate a faded white light hanging from the ceiling in a line between wooden cross-sections, adding to the simplistic decoration.
With the laid-back vibe of the restaurant and the delectable entrees, Cava allows the customer a quick trip to the Mediterranean through a culinary experience worth remembering. Whether to sit inside the restaurant or have the food for takeout to munch on at home, Cava is definitely the place “to go” for a healthy yet delicious meal.
